Longing for a return to the golden era of immersive sims? Look no further than RetroSpace, a game that promises to deliver a nostalgic experience reminiscent of classics like Half-Life and Deus Ex. With its focus on nonlinear exploration, open-ended puzzle-solving, and minimal guidance, RetroSpace embraces a design philosophy that challenges players' intellect and creativity.

Game Rant caught up with RetroSpace's designer and writer, Bálint Bánk Varga, to delve into how The Wild Gentlemen team is dedicated to reviving the spirit of old-school immersive sims, where players were encouraged to think outside the box and explore a myriad of solutions.

Embracing Player Autonomy

Unlike traditional genres that often provide detailed instructions, immersive sims like RetroSpace thrive on letting players chart their own course. Drawing inspiration from titles like Deus Ex, the game offers a hands-off approach, pushing players to discover, experiment, and innovate. In this genre, getting lost isn't a setback but an integral part of the gameplay experience.

While other games might use visual cues to direct players, RetroSpace challenges gamers to find their own path. Whether it's scaling a wall or reaching a high point, the game encourages diverse strategies, allowing each player to craft a unique solution.

A World of Possibilities

In RetroSpace, players are not confined to a single playstyle. Varga revealed that the game can even be completed without engaging in combat, a nod to the intricate design philosophy of immersive sims. While there are various weapons and abilities to unlock, the game also offers stealth and nonviolent options for overcoming challenges.

With a level of replayability akin to Deus Ex and Prey, RetroSpace promises to push players to explore the boundaries of their creativity and the game's mechanics. Speedrunners and challenge enthusiasts are likely to find endless opportunities to test their skills in this immersive world.

RetroSpace is currently in development.