The 7th Guest's VR Remake Achieves Perfect Balance: A Must-Discover Spectacle!

The 7th Guest VR is an intriguing remake of a beloved 1993 classic, aiming to capture the essence of the original while utilizing the advancements of modern gaming technology and design. With fans eagerly anticipating a new installment in The 7th Guest franchise, the VR remake is scheduled for release on PC (via Steam) and Quest 2 in 2023, with plans for Quest 3 in the future.

Developed by Vertigo Games, a renowned VR developer and publisher known for popular titles such as Arizona Sunshine, After the Fall, and A Fisherman's Tale, this horror-mystery game presents a fresh challenge for the experienced studio. Paul van der Meer, the lead designer of The 7th Guest VR, recently spoke with Game Rant to delve into its development process and the obstacles encountered along the way.

Walking the Line Between Old and New

During the interview, van der Meer discussed the process of updating a 30-year-old CD-ROM game for modern VR. The revamped version features a completely redesigned 3D environment and incorporates nostalgic technological elements from the original game.

"As a die-hard fan of the original, balancing development is definitely a challenge. There's a strong temptation to recreate it exactly as it was, but I consider that a potential pitfall. Especially when adapting it for VR, certain aspects need to be reevaluated for the platform...So we aimed to create a design that was previously impossible but still true to the essence of the original."

Vertigo Games is Learning from the Old Masters

He also discussed the unique challenges and considerations involved in remaking the game. For instance, he used puzzle design as an example - Vertigo Games has more technological freedom compared to Trilobyte, the original creators of the game in the 90s. This enables the studio's developers to explore their creativity and pursue ambitious ideas. Additionally, the mansion is being reimagined in a 3D environment, and the team is committed to preserving the elements that made the haunted house iconic while also modernizing the rest of the game.

In order to maintain the utmost authenticity of the original experience during the remake's development, Vertigo is not solely dependent on its own reference and research. The team is collaborating with Rob Landeros, the original game designer.

Talking to him was a great honor for me, as I am a devoted fan of the game. Growing up with it, meeting one of the original creators was incredibly enjoyable. He has shown immense support for the project, granting us the creative freedom to approach it as we see fit. His enthusiasm for witnessing its fruition is truly motivating for our entire team.

While the changes being implemented are groundbreaking and inventive, our team is being meticulous in maintaining the game's original tone, atmosphere, aesthetic, and design. We aim to preserve the essence that captivated fans in the 90s, offering them a nostalgic homecoming experience. Simultaneously, we want newcomers to have a brand new and enjoyable experience, even if they have never heard of the original. No prior knowledge is necessary for them to jump in and appreciate the game.

The 7th Guest VR is in development for PC (Steam), Quest 2, and Quest 3.