narrative coherence Archives

AppWizard

July 16, 2026

Original Witcher dev says remaking it as an open world won’t be easy: ‘As a player, I might be happy about that, but as a designer, I’m starting to get gray’

The Witcher remake, currently in development at Fool's Theory, aims to transform the original 2007 game into an open-world RPG, a significant shift from its linear gameplay. Designer Artur Ganszyniec noted that this transition requires expanding the game environment and integrating new content with existing elements. The open-world format allows players to approach quests and challenges non-linearly, which complicates design considerations. Ganszyniec expressed both excitement and concern about balancing player freedom with narrative coherence. The development process is complex, reflecting the challenges of reworking the game's fundamental nature.

AppWizard

December 26, 2025

The RPS 100: Reader Edition (2025) – your favourite games of all time

The RPS 100: Readers Edition allows readers to vote on the best PC games of all time, consolidating entries from the same series for broader representation. - X4: Foundations: Praised for its unconventional gameplay and immersive economic simulation. - Hardspace: Shipbreaker: Noted for its zen-like gameplay and masterful design that intertwines narrative and mechanics. - Horizon Zero Dawn: Appreciated for its beautiful world, intriguing storyline, and emotional depth. - Oxygen Not Included: Recognized for fostering resilience and problem-solving skills, with engaging gameplay. - What Remains of Edith Finch: Described as a perfect game blending sadness with exuberance. - Alan Wake 2: Lauded for intricate lore, masterful storytelling, and stunning visuals. - Planescape: Torment Enhanced Edition: Reflects philosophical depth and memorable experiences despite challenging gameplay. - Terraria: Celebrated as a quintessential indie game with endless possibilities. - Overwatch 2: Reminisced for its balance of accessibility and depth, fostering a positive community. - Baba Is You: Considered one of the best puzzle games with delightful mechanics. - Heaven's Vault: Described as a profound exploration of history and memory with rich storytelling. - Jagged Alliance 2 Rally Point: Highlights memorable mercenaries and strategic challenges. - Star Control 2: Remembered as an ideal space adventure with brilliant dialogue. - The Long Dark: Known for providing countless emergent experiences as a survival simulator. - The Stanley Parable: Described as silly and mind-bending with a unique player engagement approach. - Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth: Celebrated for emotional storytelling and engaging gameplay. - Football Manager: Shares nostalgic stories that create personal connections. - Call of Duty: Reminisced for its cinematic experience and revolutionary impact on online multiplayer.

AppWizard

November 25, 2025

Chinese Room co-founder wanted Paradox to drop the ‘Bloodlines 2’ name, because “no one would be happy” with the final game

Many players are disappointed with Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines 2 due to performance issues, a lack of meaningful stakes, and disengaging RPG systems. The sequel does not maintain continuity with the original game, offering only scattered lore snippets. Dan Pinchbeck, co-founder of The Chinese Room, revealed that he advocated for a title change during development discussions with Paradox to reduce comparisons with the original game. He aimed to take over the development of Bloodlines 2 but noted the team wanted to infuse their own storytelling rather than simply finish Hardsuit Labs' work. Pinchbeck recognized the challenges of creating a true sequel within time and budget constraints and suggested aiming for a focused experience similar to Dishonored. He acknowledged the complexities of collaborative game development and the enduring legacy of the original Bloodlines game, which continues to overshadow its sequel.