Kris Durrschmidt and Calvin Vu Discuss Volgarr The Viking II
In exciting news for fans of punishingly difficult games, Crazy Viking Studios is set to release Volgarr The Viking II on the Switch eShop on 6th August. This eagerly anticipated sequel to the cult classic original promises to deliver an even more brutal and challenging experience while introducing new elements to keep players on their toes.
Development Background
In a candid interview with Kris Durrschmidt, co-founder, CEO, and creative director at Crazy Viking Studios, and Calvin Vu, producer at Digital Eclipse, we gained insight into the creative process behind Volgarr The Viking II. Originally, the studio had no intention of making a sequel to the first game, but overwhelming fan demand and a fortuitous partnership with Digital Eclipse changed the course of development.
Durrschmidt shared personal stories about the challenges and decisions that led to the creation of Volgarr II, shedding light on the internal struggles and external pressures that shaped the game’s evolution. From the unexpected success of the original title to the unforeseen hurdles faced during the prototyping phase, the journey to Volgarr II was fraught with uncertainty and introspection.
Gameplay Enhancements and Design Philosophy
With Volgarr The Viking II, the development team aimed to address player feedback and enhance the overall experience while staying true to the spirit of the original. Significant improvements in gameplay mechanics, level design, and visual aesthetics promise to elevate the sequel to new heights while maintaining the challenging core that fans have come to love.
Durrschmidt delved into the intricate details of the game’s design, highlighting the addition of new power-ups, abilities, and checkpoints to provide a more balanced and rewarding gameplay experience. By carefully balancing the difficulty curve and introducing strategic elements like destructible checkpoints, Volgarr II aims to cater to both hardcore enthusiasts and newcomers looking to test their skills.
Artistic Evolution and Visual Upgrades
A notable aspect of Volgarr The Viking II is the significant visual upgrade from its predecessor, showcasing detailed environment art and improved character animations. The team’s commitment to enhancing the game’s aesthetics while preserving its retro charm speaks to their dedication to creating a timeless experience that resonates with modern audiences.
Durrschmidt and Vu shared insights into the artistic direction of the game, emphasizing the importance of striking a balance between nostalgia and innovation. By staying true to the classic sprite-based visuals while incorporating modern design elements, Volgarr II aims to captivate players with its unique blend of old-school charm and contemporary flair.
Anticipated Reception and Future Endeavors
As the release date for Volgarr The Viking II approaches, the conversation turned towards the game’s potential reception in a gaming landscape dominated by titles like Elden Ring and Dark Souls. Durrschmidt expressed uncertainty about the game’s reception but emphasized the importance of eliciting strong emotions from players, whether positive or negative.
Looking ahead, Crazy Viking Studios has exciting projects in the pipeline, hinting at future releases that promise to push the boundaries of traditional game design. While details remain under wraps for now, fans can rest assured that the studio’s commitment to delivering challenging and engaging experiences remains unwavering.
With Volgarr The Viking II poised to make a splash in the gaming world, players can expect a thrilling and punishing journey that stays true to its roots while forging new paths in the realm of challenging gameplay. As the countdown to the game’s release continues, the anticipation and excitement among fans are palpable, setting the stage for another epic adventure in the world of Midgard.
