Dying Light: The Beast, the upcoming title in the popular franchise, promises a core duration of 20 hours, a measure that distances itself from the approach of large games like Assassin’s Creed. Tymon Smektala, the franchise director, emphasizes that “size is not everything” and that the true value of the game lies in the gameplay experience rather than its duration. This perspective connects with a current trend in video game design where compact and quality experiences are gaining ground.
Shorter games, but that you can complete
During a conversation with GamesRadar+, Smektala points out that in titles like Assassin’s Creed, the vastness of the world often creates a sense of burden, as many players may feel that they will never finish the game, which dilutes the return on investment. “If I start playing Assassin’s Creed Shadows, I know I will never finish it,” he states. In contrast, Dying Light: The Beast aims to provide a satisfying journey that players can complete and fully enjoy.
Additionally, Smektala compares Dying Light: The Beast with other industry hits like Control and Alan Wake 2, titles that provide quality experiences in a similar playtime of around 15 to 20 hours. This approach is considered competitive and appealing for those seeking a substantial narrative without the overload of endless content. The philosophy of the Techland studio, which does not have the same resources as giants like Ubisoft, translates into a more thoughtful and pragmatic design.
Finally, Dying Light: The Beast not only represents the return of Kyle Crane, but it is described as an evolution of the saga, often considered by many as Dying Light 3. Smektala emphasizes his confidence that this new chapter will provide players with full value for their investment, aligning with the current demand for meaningful and accessible gaming experiences.