Killzone Composer: Fans Seeking More Casual, Quicker Games
The beloved Sony franchise, Killzone, has been on hiatus for quite some time, leaving fans yearning for its return. In a recent interview with VideoGamer for the PlayStation: The Concert Tour, Killzone composer Joris de Man added his voice to the chorus of those hoping to see the series make a comeback. "I know that there have been petitions for it," de Man remarked, acknowledging the fanbase's desire. However, he also highlighted the challenges, stating, "I think it's tricky because, I can't speak for Guerrilla or anything... I don't know if it will ever happen. I hope it will because I think it is quite an iconic franchise, but I also think it kind of has to take into account the sensitivities and the shift in, I guess, what people want because it is quite bleak in some ways."
When it comes to envisioning Killzone's potential revival, de Man suggested that a remastered collection might be more appealing than a brand new entry. "I think [a] remastered one would be successful, I don't know if a new game would be as much," he explained. He also noted the changing preferences in gaming, suggesting that players might be leaning towards more casual and quicker experiences. Killzone games are known for their slower-paced, weightier gameplay, which contrasts with faster-paced shooters like Call of Duty. Notably, Killzone 2 faced criticism for its input lag on the PlayStation 3, which affected its responsiveness. The series is also recognized for its dark, gritty, and atmospheric visuals and tone.
In a separate interview with the Washington Post, it appeared that Sony's developer, Guerrilla, had shifted its focus away from Killzone and towards the Horizon series. Despite this, it's been over a decade since the last Killzone game, Shadow Fall, and the prospect of reviving Killzone—or another of Sony's PlayStation shooter franchises—remains an exciting possibility for many fans. While the future of Killzone remains uncertain, supporters can take comfort in knowing they have allies like Joris de Man rooting for its return.