Remembering Infamous: The Milestone 15-Year Anniversary

Infamous is celebrating its 15-year anniversary today, May 26, 2024. Below, we look back at how its focus on traversal paved the way for modern AAA superhero games.

Superhuman traversal in video games has become a staple mechanic, from soaring over canyons in suits of armor to swinging through cityscapes. One game that truly revolutionized superhero movement was Sucker Punch’s Infamous, which was launched 15 years ago.

The Birth of Infamous

Inspired by various comic adaptations, Infamous put players in control of Cole MacGrath, a superhuman with electrifying powers. The city he patrolled, Empire City, not only served as the backdrop for the game’s action but also as the source of his abilities.

Empire City: A Playground of Possibilities

Empire City wasn’t just a backdrop; it was a playground for players. The seamless open-world design allowed for a smooth experience without any slowdowns from end to end. Climbing, grinding, and floating through the city as Cole felt dynamic and engaging.

The combination of rail grinding and electric floating connected the cityscape with the superhero gameplay seamlessly. It was clear that the design of Infamous aimed to make traversal a core gameplay element.

The Influence and Legacy of Infamous

Infamous took inspiration from iconic cities like New York, drawing similarities to the free-flowing gameplay of titles like Grand Theft Auto. This influence, coupled with the team’s experience from the Sly Cooper series, resulted in a memorable platforming experience.

The Evolution of Superhero Games

Infamous paved the way for modern superhero games, emphasizing the importance of traversal in open-world design. Its impact can be seen in titles like Insomniac’s Spider-Man series, highlighting the significance of fluid and engaging movement mechanics in the genre.

While Cole MacGrath may not be as iconic as other superhero figures, his contribution to the gaming landscape through Infamous is undeniable. As fans continue to express their desire for a new entry or remake, the legacy of Infamous as a trailblazer in superhero game design remains strong.