John Romero Reflects on Wolfenstein 3D's Development
In a recent interview, John Romero highlights the significance of Wolfenstein 3D as id Software's first game developed with an extended timeline. Romero notes, "Wolfenstein was the first time that we were able to say, 'We're gonna take as long as it takes to make a game.'" This four-month development period marked a shift from their usual two-month crunch, allowing for greater creativity. The team's focus on player speed and movement resulted in groundbreaking mechanics that influenced the genre. However, Romero acknowledges the luxury of such time, contrasting it with today's multi-year cycles, which can hinder innovation. Romero's insights remind us that while the industry evolves, the essence of game design remains rooted in thoughtful development.