In the realm of PC gaming, few titles have garnered the same level of reverence as Dwarf Fortress, a game celebrated for its intricate algorithmic worlds and the relentless dedication of its creators, Tarn and Zach Adams. Yet, nestled in the shadows of this iconic title lies another gem—UnReal World, a procedurally generated survival roguelike that has been evolving since 1992. This game, set in Iron Age Finland, offers a unique perspective on survival gaming, making it a worthy counterpart to its more famous sibling.
The Genesis of UnReal World
Designed by Sami Maaranen, who began coding at the tender age of 14, UnReal World was born from a childhood fascination with technology and gaming. “We received a Commodore 16 as a Christmas gift, and my uncle, a tech enthusiast, would read manuals to us,” Maaranen recalls during a video call from his rural Finnish home. His journey into the world of gaming deepened as he transitioned to PCs and became engrossed in online Bulletin Board Systems, where he discovered roguelikes like Nethack and Moria. Inspired, he decided to create his own roguelike adventure.
The first iteration of UnReal World was a traditional fantasy roguelike, drawing heavily from the games he admired and pen & paper RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons. Maaranen initially sold the game through BBS boards using a shareware model, hoping to earn enough to avoid summer jobs and continue his programming journey.
Evolution of Gameplay Mechanics
As Maaranen matured, so did his vision for UnReal World. He and his collaborator, Lehmus, shifted their focus toward the rich tapestry of ancient Finnish history and mythology. “We wanted to create something different from the generic medieval fantasy worlds prevalent in many games,” he explains. This led to the introduction of survival elements in 1996, including a dynamic weather system, hunger simulation, and shelter construction.
Over the years, UnReal World has incorporated a plethora of complex systems, pioneering mechanics such as crafting and shelter building long before they became mainstream. The game features intricate animal AI and a combat system that simulates injuries to specific body parts, all while drawing inspiration from Finnish folklore for its magic system. “The spells and rituals in the game are based on real spellbooks that preserve ancient tales,” Maaranen shares, highlighting the depth of cultural authenticity embedded in the gameplay.
A Lifelong Commitment
Today, UnReal World stands as a testament to Maaranen’s lifelong dedication, with only a fraction of the original code remaining intact. “It’s fascinating to see how much it has changed,” he reflects. The game’s development has been largely iterative, with key milestones such as its debut on Windows in 1999 and its arrival on Steam in 2016 marking significant moments in its history.
Maaranen’s passion for the project remains unwavering, even as he juggles various life commitments. “There are times when I work on it full-time and times when it’s more of a part-time endeavor, but it’s always there,” he notes. His current focus is on enhancing the clothmaking mechanics and introducing permanent NPC companions, which could fundamentally alter the game’s dynamics.
Future Aspirations
Looking ahead, Maaranen envisions a game world where NPCs possess advanced artificial intelligence, allowing for richer interactions and a more immersive experience. While these ambitious features may take years to realize, his commitment to UnReal World is steadfast. “Every time I complete one feature, I find myself with two more ideas waiting to be explored,” he muses. “It’s a project that will never truly be finished, as long as my imagination remains active.”
In a landscape filled with fleeting trends, UnReal World stands out not just for its gameplay but for the enduring passion of its creator, a reminder of the artistry and dedication that can flourish in the world of indie game development.
