The Island Game Interview

Interview with Brondino Nicolas by Peter Ward

 

Island is a roleplay and strategy game where you play as a castaway in the eighteenth century. Inspired by Daniel Defoe’s “Robinson Crusoe” and Jules Verne’s “L’île mystérieuse” (Mysterious Island) style and setting, and carefully crafted by a tabletop GM, the rules of the game are designed so you, the player, can quickly pick up the game, and are then quickly offered a punishing challenge.

A very rare find from a previous shipwreck, that will probably prove very useful.
A very rare find from a previous shipwreck, that will probably prove very useful.

Carefully explore a procedurally generated island. Scout areas for resources and dangers, and plan your trip with caution. Each island will offer a different challenge in matters such as accessible resources, events, means of escape, and other elements. The game’s action happens in the short and long range views spontaneously, each side of the screen allowing you to plan your next action with a short or long range skill, depending on what you deem the most urgent need to fulfill.

First check your surroundings. After checking this nearby forest for firewood, or maybe a few fruits, you walk back to the beach you washed up on. You spotted a clear stream of fresh water there earlier on.
First check your surroundings. After checking this nearby forest for firewood, or maybe a few fruits, you walk back to the beach you washed up on. You spotted a clear stream of fresh water there earlier on.

Each action, be it searching for resources or just exploring, costs time and energy, and the night draws near. Will you reach your shelter in time or build another one in a hurry with whatever you can find ?

Deep in each area, face danger, hunger, sunburn, and fever, to collect scarce resources. Each type of terrain will offer specific resources and challenges, and depending on the island generated for you, you’ll have to adapt to the situation.


I really appreciate your kindness many thanks.
No problem Peter ! Thank you for taking an interest in Island.


What is your first gaming experience?
My first consoles were the Philips CD-I and the gameboy. I got my taste for punishing games on the last one, thanks to Capcom. My first intense memories from that console are Megaman and Gargoyle’s Quest.


What got you into programming games?
Before getting into gaming I was an avid reader. Jules Vernes, Barjavel, Tolkien… I read and reread everything from the adventure & fantasy genre. Later on I discovered the roleplaying genre on the nintendo consoles (Squaresoft, Enix, etc), as well on the PC (Fallout, Legacy of Kain…) That’s a love (and addiction) story that never ended. As soon as I discovered code, I realized I would be able to build my own stories with this.


What development tools or coding did you use?
Island is built in C++ and SDL on windows. This allows a strong compatibility with the Nintendo SDK for Switch and 3DS, as well as potential future ports on other consoles.


What hurdles did you have making your current game?
Since we started building Island, we received a lot of feedback. Many have different views, and some are conflicting. We also have our own view of the game, and we must take everything in account to make sure we are building the best possible version of the game. Taking the right decision can be sometimes very complex.


After the completion of the game what game will you make?
I have another great idea that I can’t wait to test and develop. It’ll be a while before we get there, so I prefer not revealing this for now.
What other games have you made?
I waited a long time for the perfect opportunity to build a game that could be exactly the way I want it to be. Island is my first game with total control on the creative process.


My favourite computer was my Amiga and console the Megadrive do you have a favourite?
Most of my favorite games are on the Super Nintendo. Some games were about the challenge, others about the music, and atmosphere. 90’s gaming on PC also represents many amazing gaming moments to me. I discovered the Amiga only recently through videos, and I strongly regret not owning it at that time period. I plan to buy one soon to correct that mistake.


What is your favourite retro game?
Picking just one is just too crual. It’s like going in an ice cream shop and choosing only one flavour. So, in no particular order : Chrono trigger, Fallout (1& 2), secret of mana & evermore, the Kain serie (VAE VICTIS !!), all zelda N64 and below, megaman ( V1, X, legends), Diablo I & II, torment, FF 4-9.
Do you still game on the current consoles if so whats your favourite game?
The Witcher 3 was really amazing ! I can’t wait for Cyberpunk 2077. Also, more recently I really loved Kingdom come : Deliverance.


Whats the worst game you have ever played?
A game that I didn’t like and still played it over and over ? Minesweeper. Aah, high school, good times.


Finally what game or feature would you like to see on Retrogamesmaster in the future?
Ah, if I had to choose a classic, it’s be amazing if you were able to get an interview from the creators or Doom.
This is rough questions feel free to add to it further I will add your information from email
We’re in the last 48 hours of our kickstarter and are way over our main goal. I would like to thank to all of our backers for their support!