Psychedelic Metroidvania Fearmonium - Impressed by the SFC Pinocchio, he devoted half a year to improving his drawing skills and created it almost by himself [Developer interview]

This project interviews developers of new indie games of interest. This time, we will be talking about the psychedelic Metroidvania ``'', developed by Redblack Spade and released on May 20th for PC/Mac/Linux.Fearmonium” We bring you a mini-interview with the developer.

This work is a psychedelic metroidvania that explores the mind of a young boy, Max. Huge maps, combo attacks and unique abilities, depictions of human cognition and phobias, andCupheadIt features retro-style hand-drawn graphics such as ``''. At the time of writing, Japanese is not supported.

“Fearmonium” is 1,320 yen (10% off until May 28th at 1,188 yen)Currently being distributed。

--First of all, please introduce yourself.

Slava Gris (below Slava)Hello everyone! This is Slava Gris. I did most of the development of this game by myself, but the people around me helped me with the music and localization. However, the art, programming, game design, plot, and everything else for this game is done by me.

--When and how did the development of this work begin?

GloryThis work was developed three years ago, and my previous work, ``Catmaze』（Developer interviewIt started right after the release of ). This work was in a pixel art style, but I got tired of drawing pixel art, so I decided to create a new style of game that was completely different from what I had done before. At first, I had no idea how to draw in the style you see now, and for the first six months I just focused on improving my drawing skills.

--Please tell us about the features of this work.

GloryI believe that games allow those who play them to experience wonderful and deep stories. I believe that this type of work of art can convey more than just something like ``a young man saves the world,'' so I first create a plot and then flesh it out. We shaped this work. I have a master's degree in psychology, so I thought it would be a waste not to use my psychological knowledge and ways to communicate it in an interesting way. Therefore, this work depicts the world inside Max's head and attempts to explain the principles of ``psychological defenses'' that people can use against growing neuroses.

Regarding the gameplay of this work, there are many scenes where the gameplay changes significantly in order to add diversity to the Metroidvania genre. For example, scenes include running away from a bus on a scooter or riding on a clown's head over water.

--Are there any works that influenced this work?

GloryWhen I was searching for a visual style for this game, I came across a famous and beautiful 2D action game in the Disney style from the '30s to the '60s. I was impressed by the perfect animation, diverse game systems, and great atmosphere...Pinocchio for the Super Famicom.

When I was gathering ideas for this work, the things that impressed me decided the visuals for this work. I was amazed by the quality and style of animation in the early Disney films, but I didn't immediately fall in love with their vibrant atmosphere and color. However, after seeing the music video for the song "Mercury" by a musician called GHOSTEMANE, I changed my mind.

I love how it has an old cartoon style, but changes into a psychedelic style with dark and aggressive music. This was exactly what I was looking for.

--Are there any plans for this work to be translated into Japanese?

GloryThis game is self-published to be released on Steam, but a publisher is required to release it on consoles. alreadyLata Rika GamesWe have entered into a contract with the company and have begun translating it into several languages. Of course, Japanese is also included! When preparations are complete, we plan to make the Steam version compatible with Japanese as well.

--Has the new coronavirus affected your development?

GloryHonestly, it was. But I meant it in a good way. I work alone and the only thing I needed to complete this project was free time. During lockdown, time seemed to stand still in the outside world and we had a lot of free time. There are no more parties, no more events, no more interruptions from friends, so I have fewer distractions.

--Is it okay to distribute and monetize this work?

GloryIf you're enjoying this game, there's no reason to stop. The reason I make games is to make everyone happy, so as long as you can enjoy it, you can do whatever you want with it. Of course, you will have to purchase it first (lol). There is no problem with monetization as long as it entertains someone.

--Finally, please give a message to our Japanese readers.

GloryI love Japanese culture. Many unusual games have been made in Japan. In fact, all of my favorite games are Japanese! And it is because of your support that Japanese game companies can continue to create masterpieces. In other words, everyone's taste is amazing!

--thank you very much.