In the world of indie game development, there is a growing trend of creators drawing inspiration from sources outside of the gaming industry. This trend has been highlighted in a recent thread where indie developers share the non-game influences that have shaped their projects. Rather than simply looking to other games for inspiration, these developers are turning to films, books, shows, and real-world events to inform the direction of their work.
One such example is Dan Martin, the creative mind behind RPG Deathbulge: Battle Of The Bands, which has garnered attention as this month’s RPS Game Club pick. Martin shares that his project is influenced by a mix of references, including the popular TV show Peep Show and the quirky novelty item Big Mouth Billy Bass. This eclectic blend of influences showcases the diverse creative process that developers employ when crafting their games.
The thread also introduces gamers to lesser-known projects that may have flown under the radar. For instance, Over Jump Rally pays homage to Sega Rally and draws inspiration from the Manga series Initial D. Similarly, Paleophage, a Dino Crisis homage, was not on many gamers’ radars until its non-game influences were revealed. This aspect of the trend provides an opportunity for players to uncover hidden gems in the indie game scene.
Another intriguing aspect of this trend is how non-game influences shape the narrative and visual style of indie games. Gloomy Juncture, for example, is a neo-noir adventure game inspired by the films Suspiria, Hitchcock, and Requiem For A Dream. This blend of cinematic influences results in a unique gaming experience that stands out from traditional game narratives.
The intersection of games and non-game influences is a fascinating trend in the indie game development community. By expanding their creative horizons beyond the confines of the gaming industry, developers are able to create unique and innovative projects that capture the attention of players. This trend not only sheds light on the creative process behind indie games but also provides gamers with an opportunity to discover new and exciting titles that may have otherwise gone unnoticed.
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