In 1992, "Ultima Underworld" changed the rules of what a fantasy RPG could be. It introduced the concept of 3D immersion, a player-authored experience and a richly dynamic world to explore. Its influence led to a whole generation of great games such as "Thief," "Deus Ex," "BioShock," "Skyrim" and "Dragon Age."
"Underworld" has been secreted away in the deepest, darkest vaults of its publisher for over two decades. Only now have the original creators unchained the franchise, freeing it to innovate yet again.
Otherside Entertainment, led by "System Shock" and "Thief" creator Paul Neurath, has launched a Kickstarter campaign, looking for $600,000, to complete development of "Underworld Ascendant," the spiritual successor to "Ultima Underworld." Backing the game grants you an unprecedented front row seat to the creation of this next installment in a storied franchise.
Neurath describes the project thusly: "We're bringing back the classic single-player, immersive underworld adventuring that made the original great. But we're also innovating. We're pushing forward with our new Improvisation Engine; going deeper than any other game in creating a living, breathing world fantasy world hidden beneath the earth; trying out a new approach to co-op play with a friend, and more. The team here at OtherSide has set itself the lofty goal redefining the fantasy RPG for this generation of gamers, much as we did for the last generation."
Thanks to Rock, Paper, Shotgun for the heads up. Check out the Kickstarter trailer below:
