Squid Game: Unleashed shows up at Game Awards 2024 with new details

The Release of Squid Game: Unleashed

Boss Fight and Netflix Games unveiled Squid Game: Unleashed at Gamescom 2024, with the announcement that the game will be free-to-play for everyone, regardless of a Netflix subscription. The game is set to launch on Dec. 17, just a week before the premiere of Squid Game season 2 on Dec. 26. Polygon recently interviewed game director Bill Jackson to delve into the development process of Unleashed and how they managed to capture the essence of the original show while injecting more fun into the gameplay.

Challenges and Competition

In the Squid Game TV series, characters are thrust into deadly games without prior knowledge, leading to high-stakes gameplay. Jackson highlights that in the video game adaptation, players can face these challenges repeatedly, honing their skills and competing on leaderboards. Whether players aim to climb the ranks or prefer a more casual experience, Unleashed caters to all skill levels.

Stylistic Approach and Aesthetics

Despite the brutal nature of Squid Game, the video game rendition balances gore with a slightly cartoonish aesthetic to create a less intense atmosphere. Jackson explains that the art style was refined to ensure players feel comfortable and immersed in the game world, steering away from darker versions that were initially considered.

Image: Boss Fight/Netflix Games

Realism and Gameplay Mechanics

The game aims to portray the harsh realities of the Squid Game world by incorporating graphic elements like blood spatters upon impact. However, Jackson assures that the game’s physics will enhance the gameplay experience, providing players with precise control over their characters for more accurate movements and interactions.

Gameplay Elements Inspired by the Show

Unleashed will feature familiar deadly schoolyard games from the first season of Squid Game, with adaptations to suit the interactive format. For instance, the Dalgona game has been reimagined to offer a unique gameplay experience within Squid Game: Unleashed, combining inspiration from the show with innovative game design.

Future Updates and Collaboration

While levels based on Squid Game season 2 games are in the works, players can rest assured that spoilers will be avoided until after the show’s release. This level of coordination is made possible through direct collaboration with the Squid Game creators, ensuring that the game aligns seamlessly with the show’s narrative without revealing key plot points prematurely.