Andrew had the opportunity to interview with Jake from Breakerbox Studios about his Kickstarter game Griff the Winged Lion, a platformer in the vein of classics like Spyro and Crash Bandicoot from the 32 bit era.
WTN: What was your inspiration for making Griff?
Breakerbox Studios: In my early teens I played a lot of PS1 and N64 platformers.
These games are 20 years old and I still play them regularly. Very nostalgic. We want to honor the 90’s 3D platformer with a tribute to what we feel was one of the best eras in gaming.
WTN: What other inspirations other than Crash and Spyro did you use for Griff?
BBS: Some designs are inspired by popular Japanese platformers. The Sonic/Klonoa eyes are one such example. Additionally, I was inspired by titles like Mario64 and Kid Icarus. Ratchet was a small inspiration for Griff’s personality.
WTN: Will there be any console/platform exclusive modes/characters?
BBS: Currently there are PS1, N64 and Dreamcast style modes. These will each have special achievements. I don’t think there will be any other modes besides those three, but it’s possible. The game will feature cameos from popular Youtube gamers voicing parodies of classic mascots, though these are unlikely to be console exclusive.
WTN: Will mod support be available for PC?
BBS: There will actually be some mod support, including open translation and texture modding. Models themselves are a possibility.
WTN: Will there be multiple difficulty settings?
BBS: Possibly. If it becomes a setting, we’ll be sure to announce it.
WTN: If you had the chance to make a game for any current video game character, who would it be and what type of game would you make it as?
BBS: Maybe a platformer with Link from Legend of Zelda that plays like Sphinx and the Cursed Mummy– or a sequel to Sphinx and the Cursed Mummy. I would love to make an official prequel to Soul Reaver. I’m making a Legacy of Kain fan game in my spare time which I hope to get permission for Steam. A new Jak & Daxter would be awesome too.
WTN: Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about Griff?
BBS: Despite Griff’s inspirations and influences, we want to do our best to make sure it’s a unique gaming experience. We care about the game having a heart and soul of its own and want to be very creative with mechanics.
One of Griff’s current unique mechanics is in the golden ‘Midas’ gloves. Griff collects the golden remains of objects he smashes. This is a huge part of the gameplay and is used for collecting, combat, puzzles and secret finding.
You can find a link to Griff The Winged Lion’s kickstarter page here
