Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown for Nintendo Switch

News: The Lost Crown, the newest addition to the Prince of Persia game series, skillfully blends traditional and modern elements. Embracing the well-known Metroidvania style, the game’s combat mechanics go beyond the conventions of the Metroid and Castlevania franchises, drawing inspiration from diverse sources. During a Reddit AMA held on January 16th, two principal developers of Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown provided insights into the game’s influences and design decisions, unveiling an intriguing origin of inspiration for its combat mechanics.

Inspiration for The Lost Crown

In the AMA session, the developers were questioned about the games that influenced their work on The Lost Crown. Christophe Pic, the game’s world director, revealed that their inspiration stemmed from titles such as Hollow Knight, Dark Souls, Metroid Prime, and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night. These games are celebrated for their expertly crafted level designs, featuring interconnected areas and clever shortcuts that enhance the exploration and backtracking elements, providing a purposeful and engaging experience.

Given The Lost Crown’s incorporation of Metroidvania elements, it is unsurprising that the game draws inspiration from titles renowned for their intricate level designs. The incorporation of “imbricated” level structures contributes to the overall immersion, crafting a captivating world for players to delve into.

Innovative Combat Mechanics

Regarding combat, Rémi Boutin, the senior level designer, unveiled their intent to create a spectacle reminiscent of versus fighting games like Street Fighter while preserving the refined design seen in games like Super Smash Bros, where a single button press triggers an action. Additionally, character action games such as Devil May Cry and Bayonetta played pivotal roles in shaping the combat system for The Lost Crown.

The outcome is a combat experience that feels both seamless and gratifying, featuring controls reminiscent of the Super Smash Bros series. The incorporation of aerial combos and the ability to effortlessly juggle opponents contribute to the immersive nature of the game.

Rémi Boutin further elucidated that games like Celeste and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night served as inspiration for the team in terms of fluidity and controls. Specifically for combat, the team drew significant influence from Super Smash Bros, appreciating its simplicity in control while maintaining depth and precision in gameplay.

Maintaining the Prince of Persia Legacy

Addressing concerns about maintaining the essence of the Prince of Persia series, the developers clarified that their initial focus revolved around the fundamental pillars of the game, including platforming, puzzles, and acrobatic combat. The Metroidvania structure was a later addition, emerging as they brainstormed new abilities for the protagonist, Sargon. The transition to a structure reminiscent of Metroid felt organic and provided opportunities for expanded exploration and progression within the game.

It’s worth noting that the developers did not envision a Metroidvania structure from the outset. However, by prioritizing the core elements of the Prince of Persia series initially and subsequently integrating Metroidvania elements, they crafted a game that honors its origins while embracing innovative gameplay mechanics.

A Blend of Classic and Modern Gaming

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown successfully amalgamates the finest elements from both classic and contemporary gaming. With inspiration drawn from acclaimed titles like Hollow Knight, Dark Souls, Metroid Prime, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, and Super Smash Bros, the game provides a captivating and immersive experience appealing to both series enthusiasts and newcomers. The developers’ commitment to delivering fluid controls, engaging combat, and challenging puzzles solidifies The Lost Crown as a commendable addition to the Prince of Persia franchise.

FAQs

Q: Which games served as inspiration for the developers of Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown?

A: The Lost Crown’s developers found inspiration in titles such as Hollow Knight, Dark Souls, Metroid Prime, and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night.

Q: What were the influences behind the combat mechanics in The Lost Crown?

A: The combat mechanics in The Lost Crown drew inspiration from versus fighting games like Street Fighter, games with elegant design such as Super Smash Bros, and character action games like Devil May Cry and Bayonetta.

Q: How did the Metroidvania structure come to be in The Lost Crown?

A: The introduction of the Metroidvania structure in The Lost Crown emerged during the developers’ brainstorming sessions for new powers for the protagonist, Sargon. It felt like a natural fit, enhancing exploration and progression within the game.