Racoon Logic: A Nostalgic Approach to Game Development

In a parking lot near The Game Awards, the Racoon Logic team is taking a unique approach to promoting their upcoming game, Revenge of the Savage Planet. Instead of a big trailer, they are demoing the game and conducting interviews with journalists. This old-school approach to PR is a deliberate choice, as Creative Director Alex Hutchinson explains. He believes that being part of a large event can be overwhelming, and this approach is more enjoyable and easier for the team. Hutchinson also expresses his fondness for the traditional gaming industry, where games were released as complete, physical products, and players could enjoy them without the need for constant updates or subscriptions. The team is betting on the fact that there is an audience for this type of game, particularly among older gamers who may have less time to play but still want to enjoy a complete gaming experience. Revenge of the Savage Planet is the sequel to 2020's Journey to the Savage Planet, and the team is unsure of the success of the first game due to various ownership changes. However, they are optimistic about the new game, which is set to release in May 2025. Hutchinson has mixed feelings about Game Pass and subscription services, citing the difficulty of building an audience and the decreasing amount of money paid to developers. He worries about a future where all games are available for free, and developers are not fairly compensated for their work. The game is set to release during a crowded period in the gaming industry, but Hutchinson is confident that their game will stand out due to its unique tone and style. The team is self-publishing the game, and they have reasonable expectations for its success. They aim to create a game that will appeal to a specific audience and provide a fun, complete gaming experience. The game features a mix of action, puzzles, and platforming, with a humorous tone that is reminiscent of games developed by Rare. Hutchinson concludes that there is not enough comedy in games, and he hopes that Revenge of the Savage Planet will fill that gap.