Return to the Savage Planet: A Sequel with a Twist
In the world of gaming, sequels are often eagerly anticipated by fans of the original game. However, when it comes to “Journey to the Savage Planet,” the sequel, “Revenge of the Savage Planet,” took players by surprise with its unique approach to storytelling and gameplay. Released in 2020, the first-person Metroidvania game was a hidden gem that may have flown under the radar for many gamers. Despite its lack of mainstream recognition, “Journey to the Savage Planet” was praised for its vibrant visuals, engaging gameplay, and quirky sense of humor.
Now, developers Raccoon Logic, formerly known as Typhoon Studios, have taken the explosively bright and cheerful nature of the original game and expanded upon it in “Revenge of the Savage Planet.” This sequel offers a larger, brighter, and bouncier experience, with a significant shift to third-person gameplay. However, the most significant change in this sequel is the incorporation of a satirical parable about modern capitalism and the games industry.
The Story Behind the Sequel
The development of “Revenge of the Savage Planet” was not without its challenges for the team at Raccoon Logic. After being acquired by Google as an in-house developer for the ill-fated Stadia streaming service, the team was abruptly let go, leading to a decision to self-publish their next project. In order to retain the rights to their Savage Planet IP, they sold the first game to publishers 505 Games, a move that left them without any financial benefit from its success.
This experience of corporate greed and instability served as inspiration for the narrative of “Revenge of the Savage Planet,” which is set in a future where capitalism and stupidity have thrown the world off its axis. The game’s premise revolves around a space exploring company that has been taken over by a multinational corporation, leading to a mission of revenge and redemption for the player.
Gameplay and Features
“Return to the Savage Planet” maintains the core elements of a Metroidvania game, offering a sprawling 3D world to explore across multiple planets. Players will encounter a variety of bizarre creatures to interact with, from shooting them to capturing and experimenting on them in your base. The game’s third-person perspective adds a new dimension to the gameplay, allowing for a more immersive and dynamic experience.
As you progress through the game, you will unlock new abilities that enable you to access previously inaccessible areas and uncover hidden secrets. The world of “Revenge of the Savage Planet” is filled with unique biomes and creatures, each offering a distinct challenge for players to overcome. Additionally, players can collect parts to build and customize their home base, adding a personal touch to their gameplay experience.
One of the standout features of the game is its humor and quirkiness, with elements like using a water gun to expand creatures into platforms or setting slimes on fire for chaotic encounters. The game’s co-op modes also offer a fun and engaging experience for players to enjoy together, either remotely or in splitscreen.
The Creative Vision Behind the Game
The team at Raccoon Logic has prioritized the well-being of their developers and avoided the pitfalls of crunch culture in game development. Despite facing challenges in the industry, they have remained committed to creating a game that reflects their values and vision. The satirical undertones of “Revenge of the Savage Planet” serve as a commentary on the state of the industry while maintaining a lighthearted and entertaining gameplay experience.
In conclusion, “Revenge of the Savage Planet” is a testament to the resilience and creativity of indie developers in the gaming industry. With its unique approach to storytelling, vibrant visuals, and engaging gameplay, the sequel offers an exciting and immersive experience for players to enjoy. As players embark on their journey through the quirky world of the Savage Planet, they will discover a game that challenges conventions and delivers a fresh take on the Metroidvania genre.
