Last week, Death Game Hotel was released – a quirky and gory VR game developed by White Owls, the studio led by Hidetaka “Swery” Suehiro. This game stands out for its unique concept where players engage in casino-style card games while betting their own limbs. Additionally, Death Game Hotel incorporates a significant multiplayer component, adding a layer of social interaction and fun to the gameplay experience.
Swery’s Vision for Multiplayer Games
Swery expressed his excitement about diving into the realm of online multiplayer gaming, hinting at future projects that are currently brewing in his mind. He mentioned leveraging the experience gained from Death Game Hotel to explore new and innovative ideas in the multiplayer space. While details about these future endeavors remain scarce, Swery’s enthusiasm for creating engaging and interactive multiplayer experiences is palpable.
Inspiration and Development Process
The genesis of Death Game Hotel stemmed from the unique circumstances brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. During the “Stay Home” phase, White Owls’ team members utilized VR headsets to connect and discuss work, sparking the idea for a virtual space where people could gather and engage with one another. This sense of connection and community served as a driving force behind the development of Death Game Hotel, emphasizing the importance of social interaction in gaming.
With Death Game Hotel marking Swery’s 17th published game, his extensive experience in the gaming industry is evident. Known for titles like Deadly Premonition and The Good Life, Swery has navigated the world of game development with a mix of critical acclaim and constructive feedback. Despite the inherent challenges of creating art, Swery remains satisfied with his studio’s past works, recognizing the perpetual nature of artistic endeavors.
Advice for Aspiring Game Developers
Swery’s advice for budding game developers is succinct yet profound – have a clear understanding of the unique value proposition your game offers. Drawing a distinction between AAA titles and indie games, Swery emphasizes the importance of offering something distinctive and incomparable in a crowded market. By staying true to the core essence of their game and having a strategic vision, developers can carve out their niche and resonate with players.
Beyond his role as a game developer, Swery is also a certified Buddhist monk with a genuine appreciation for feline companions. His holistic outlook on life extends to providing emotional support and advice, whether it’s coping with the loss of a beloved pet or navigating the complexities of personal relationships. Swery’s empathetic nature and spiritual wisdom add a layer of depth to his persona, reflecting a multifaceted individual with a profound understanding of human emotions.
Death Game Hotel is currently available for purchase on the Meta store, catering to players with Oculus devices. To enhance the gameplay experience and foster a sense of community, White Owls has established a Discord server where players can interact, organize gaming sessions, and potentially engage with Swery himself. This emphasis on community engagement underscores the studio’s commitment to creating immersive and socially-driven gaming experiences.
Swery’s Death Game Hotel represents a creative departure into the realm of VR gaming, blending elements of humor, gore, and multiplayer interaction. As Swery continues to explore new horizons in game development, his passion for creating meaningful and engaging experiences shines through. With a focus on community building, unique storytelling, and innovative gameplay mechanics, Swery’s future projects are sure to captivate players and push the boundaries of interactive entertainment.
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