Wheel of Time Game: A Long Road Ahead
The announcement of a Wheel of Time video game surprised many, sparking both excitement and skepticism. Iwot Studios, a new developer led by former Warner Bros. Games executive Craig Alexander, has secured the rights and plans a AAA open-world RPG for PC and consoles. Alexander's experience with titles like The Lord of the Rings Online lends some credibility, but the studio’s history has left some fans hesitant.
Online discussions reveal a mixed past for iwot Studios, with some accusing them of mismanaging the IP. However, the recent success of the Amazon Prime Video series has broadened the fanbase and renewed interest. The developers acknowledge this skepticism and address concerns regarding funding and development time.
Addressing Fan Concerns
The studio emphasizes that the project will be substantially funded and is not self-funded. They also clarify that the previously mentioned three-year development timeline was inaccurate and the project will require more time. The focus is currently on assembling a core team and developing a prototype before scaling up to a larger team of 200-300 developers.
Regarding platforms, the intention is to release on PC and multiple consoles, possibly including next-gen systems, to ensure a high-quality experience. While the developers aim for a timely release, they prioritize delivering a compelling game rather than rushing the development process.
The storyline will draw from both the books and the Amazon series, starting with the compelling “Age of Legends”, and aiming to deliver a single-player experience with potential for online integration, making it more of a character-centric narrative. The developers envision a long-term strategy, releasing sequels and expansions over time. Essentially, they're aiming for a big, expansive, and engaging experience to truly capture the spirit of the Wheel of Time.
Source: IGN