After nearly three decades in the gaming industry, renowned game designer and creator of Gears of War, Cliff "CliffyB" Bleszinski, shifted his focus to explore new creative horizons. From producing the Tony Award-winning musical Hadestown on Broadway to venturing into the realm of comics with Scrapper, CliffyB continues to showcase his versatile talents.
Game Rant had an exclusive conversation with Bleszinski to delve into the genesis of Scrapper and its thematic similarities with the Gears of War series. The discussion ranged from the inception of Scrapper to the challenges of AAA game development and the future of the industry.
Q: How does it feel to see Scrapper releasing in a collected hardcover format?
Bleszinski: The journey to this point has been enlightening. Originally conceived as a game idea, I explored various avenues before realizing that a comic book format best suited the narrative. Being an ardent comic book fan, the transition to work on Scrapper was a fulfilling experience, albeit a challenging one.
Q: What was the process of collaborating with Image Comics for Scrapper like?
Bleszinski: Credit goes to John Nee, a friend with a wealth of experience in the comic book industry. Through his connections, we found the perfect partner in Image Comics. Working with Alex De Campi, who guided the project, and the talented artists brought the world of Scrapper to life in ways I hadn't imagined.
Q: How do the themes of found family and societal issues resonate in Scrapper and your other works?
Bleszinski: Scrapper explores the concept of 'found family' amidst a backdrop of urban challenges like gentrification and police militarization. These themes, while subtly woven into the narrative, reflect real-world issues that resonate with audiences.
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Q: Are there plans for future Scrapper arcs or adaptations?
Bleszinski: Ideas for Scrapper Volume 2 are already in the works, contemplating the expansion of the universe and delving deeper into Scrapper's world. Maintaining a balance between revealing answers and retaining mystery is crucial for the narrative's evolution.
Don't miss the release of Scrapper in a collected hardcover format on April 23 through Image Comics.