Developers at Archetype Entertainment, a studio comprising veterans from the acclaimed Mass Effect series, are focused on ensuring that side quests in their upcoming sci-fi RPG, Exodus, contribute meaningfully to the gaming experience. In a recent interview with GamesRadar+, narrative director Drew Karpyshyn emphasized the importance of integrating side content that feels integral rather than merely supplementary.
Karpyshyn explained that the goal is to create side quests that players are motivated to pursue, regardless of any in-game rewards. He stated, “We don’t want things to feel tacked on. We definitely don’t want you to feel like you’re doing it because you’re obligated.” The intention is for players to engage with side quests because they are genuinely interested in the storylines and characters involved.
Balancing Depth and Playability
The development team is aware of the challenges that come with designing a game rich in content while maintaining a manageable length. Karpyshyn noted, “Deciding what to focus on during development is tricky, but the nice thing is there’s always other things we could add.” However, he cautioned against overloading the game with excessive quests, which could lead to a gameplay experience that stretches into “thousands of hours.”
While the team aims to provide ample opportunities for exploration, they also recognize the need to keep the gameplay engaging and realistic. “It sounds great in theory, but isn’t realistic,” Karpyshyn added, underlining the necessity of a balanced approach in game design.
Focus on Character Relationships
A notable aspect of Exodus is its approach to character relationships. Drawing from their experience with Mass Effect, the developers intend to create a world where players can form meaningful connections without the option to “romance anyone because you’re the hero.” This decision reflects a commitment to crafting a more immersive narrative experience that resonates with players on a deeper level.
As the team continues to refine their vision for Exodus, they remain dedicated to ensuring that each quest, whether main or side, enriches the overall storytelling and allows players to explore themes that align with the game’s core narrative. In doing so, they hope to create a captivating experience that invites players to engage fully with the game world.