Key Takeaways:
– Crime Boss: Rockay City(SRC) by InGame Studios launched on Steam with updates that were described as revolutionary.
– Managing Director Jarek Kolář remains committed to making his game align well with its original vision.
– The studio is working to restore their reputation following the backlash from an unsuccessful launch.
Revamping Crime Boss: Rockay City
Crime Boss: Rockay City had a bumpy ride since its release last year, with gamers dishing out some heavy criticism on consoles and GOG launch. However, InGame Studios, the developers, have tirelessly worked to transform the game. By releasing constant updates and new content, they are striving to breathe new life into the game and restore their reputation. This effort was seen recently when SRC made its much-anticipated debut on Steam.
We had a chance to chat with Jarek Kolář, the Managing Director of InGame Studios, to understand more about the changes made so far and get a glimpse of what's in store for the players.
About Crime Boss: Rockay City
As Kolář explained, Crime Boss: Rockay City lets players assume the role of a determined criminal boss, aiming to take control of the Rockay City underbelly. The game presents the entire criminal adventure through territory wars and plain, old-fashioned gang shootouts. It also involves heisters to perform robberies and cash heists, making the game more engaging thanks to its roguelite element.
Evolving Plotline and Gameplay
Interestingly, each campaign run in the game is randomized, featuring different territories, heists, events, and characters, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging. With the recent additions, players are now also up against police robots, PMCs units, and gang robots, even in the base game.
Over the last 12 months, the game saw a number of updates, some of which were game-changing. For instance, Update 8.0 saw considerable restructuring including better onboarding for new players and an overhaul of multiplayer. Slow but steady improvements to stealth gameplay, AI, and in-game economy continue to enhance the gaming experience.
Restoring Reputation with Lower Pricing and Free DLCs
After the initial backlash, InGame Studios is looking to win back players by offering a lower price entry point and bundling DLCs for free. While the journey has been bumpy, developers are optimistic about the fresh start facilitated by the new players coming in through the Steam release, promising an exciting future for the Crime Boss franchise.
A Promising Future with More Updates, More Content
Beyond update 9.0 and the Steam release, there are plans for future expansions focusing on evolving other gang bosses. The team is also working on their long-term goal of delivering a more immersive sim heisting experience, taking lessons from their journey so far. As Kolář pointed out, despite the existence of multiple criticisms, the team is fully dedicated to making Crime Boss: Rockay City an enjoyable experience for gamers.
An Encouraging Message for Aspiring Game Devs
For those inspired by the game and contemplating a career in the gaming industry, Kolář had some encouraging words. Despite the challenges that come with game development, the joy of crafting new worlds filled with exploration, adventures, and challenges makes the process worthwhile. The important thing, as he states, is to persist, stand up even after being beaten down, and relentlessly pursue your dreams.
In conclusion, Crime Boss: Rockay City's comeback story is a testament to the tenacity and dedication of InGame Studios. The team's ability to admit to their shortcomings, learn from them, and strive to improve is an inspiring story not only for the gaming industry but for anyone facing adversity. This may be a good time to give the revamped Crime Boss: Rockay City a shot.
