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Chuckie Egg is back with a fresh new look thanks to Downsideup Games

Eggciting

Chuckie Egg is back with a fresh new look thanks to Downsideup Games

Recent times have seen many old console games make a comeback by entering the mobile scene. Some are executed brilliantly like Bully. Whereas, other reboots leave a disappointing taste of nostalgia in your mouth, like Mega Man.

Chuckie Egg 2017 is trying to capture some of the old aspects that made it a hit back in 1980's, all while providing a modern twist to make it appeal to a new generation of gamers.

With 25 levels to unlock plus a load of music and themes to enjoy, Chuckie Egg 2017 is on track to chirp its way back into people's hearts 34 years after its original release.

This re-imagining was orchestrated by the two-man development team of Downsideup Games. We were lucky enough to speak with Chuckie Egg 2017’s co-creator Oliver Robinson about his inspirations as well as the game's quirks and charms.

What was it that you loved about the original/what inspired you to remake it?

I was with a developer who had recently remade Repton, a 1980's maze game, and we were talking about old-school gaming and which ones could work on mobile for a modern audience. We both grew up in the 80s playing on the BBC Micro and had memories of Chuckie Egg. After reminiscing about the gameplay, we both agreed it would be a great title for re-imagining.

What challenges did you face during development?

There were quite a few challenges. Before we dove in, we identified three main areas as the top priority. These areas were: the control system, modernising gameplay, and bringing in some light story elements to help the game appeal to broad audience.

The unforgiving nature of the original probably wouldn't gel well in today's market, so a good control system and updating the game mechanics would be crucial in enhancing the player's enjoyment.

We then designed new characters and included some context to help explain your progress in the game. Our main Character Harry is a brave explorer and collector of golden eggs, you must collect all the eggs in a level to proceed to the next.

What do you feel is the most appealing aspect about Chuckie Egg 2017?

I think the characters really stand out. The artists did an incredible job with Harry in creating an Indiana Jones-esque protagonist. And we created these fun, dopey-looking Ostrich enemy henchmen hired by the evil Bertha – Harry's arch nemesis.

What did you want to improve from the old game?

Chuckie Egg was a tremendous game for its time. With Chuckie Egg 2017 we wanted to create something new for modern audiences, and also preserve elements from the original that still work just as well today.

What are your top 5 games that you would like to see re-made?

I don't think I could choose just five, but personally I would love someone to take a go at remaking the classic BBC Micro game Citadel by Superior Software. It was a brilliant game that combined fun and frustration perfectly.