Quantic Dream Takes a Risk with Spellcasters Chronicles, a Free-to-Play Multiplayer Game

Quantic Dream, the renowned French studio behind narrative-driven single-player titles like Heavy Rain and Detroit: Become Human, is taking a bold step into the world of multiplayer gaming with Spellcasters Chronicles. This free-to-play game is a 3v3 blend of action and strategy, where teams of magic-wielding mages compete to destroy the opposing team's Lifestone. Players can customize their spell deck, summon creatures, and build structures on their territory, with the added twist of summoning enormous Titans to turn the tide of battle. The game's monetization model is based on cosmetics, and Quantic Dream aims to launch a closed beta before the end of the year. The development of Spellcasters Chronicles began seven years ago, shortly after the completion of Detroit: Become Human, as a pet project that eventually gained momentum. The team, mostly comprised of new hires with multiplayer experience, has been working on the game, with the minority of Quantic Dream veterans focusing on the game's engine. The studio has chosen to use its in-house engine, which has been used for its single-player titles, rather than switching to a more popular engine like Unreal Engine. This decision is driven by the studio's desire to maintain its independence and keep its research and development team intact. Quantic Dream's co-CEO, Guillaume de Fondaumière, emphasizes the importance of having its own engine, citing the need for tailored tools for artists, independence from third-party engines, and the ability to address specific needs quickly. The studio's decision to self-publish Spellcasters Chronicles has given it the freedom to take risks and try new things, but it also acknowledges the financial dependency on its shareholders, NetEase. Despite this, Quantic Dream is confident in its ability to maintain its independence and creative vision, with de Fondaumière stating that the studio has maintained its independence under NetEase and has the freedom to make its own decisions. Spellcasters Chronicles is a unique and ambitious project that marks a new direction for Quantic Dream, and the studio is hopeful that it will attract a sufficient audience to sustain the game and create new content. With its innovative gameplay and stunning visuals, Spellcasters Chronicles has the potential to carve out its own niche in the crowded multiplayer market, and Quantic Dream is eager to see how players will respond to this new and exciting experience.