Fantasy Co-Op from Hitman Devs Unveiled

IO Interactive, celebrated for the Hitman franchise, embarks on a new adventure with Project Fantasy, a promising entry into the online RPG landscape. This article delves into Project Fantasy and IO Interactive's vision for the genre.

A New Venture for IO Interactive

Project Fantasy: A Vibrant New Endeavor

Project Fantasy marks a significant departure for IO Interactive, moving away from the stealth-focused gameplay of Hitman. Veronique Lallier, Chief Development Officer at IO Interactive, describes Project Fantasy as a "vibrant game, not delving into darker fantasy themes," emphasizing its status as a "passion project" for the studio. While details remain scarce, Lallier expresses immense excitement for the project. The studio's significant investment in talent acquisition—specifically hiring developers, artists, and animators—suggests a strong commitment to pushing the boundaries of the online RPG genre. Speculation points towards a live-service RPG model, although official confirmation is pending. Interestingly, the game's official IP, codenamed Project Dragon, is categorized as an RPG shooter.

Project Fantasy: Inspired by Fighting Fantasy Books

Innovative Narrative and Player Interaction

IO Interactive draws inspiration from the Fighting Fantasy book series, aiming to integrate branching narratives and innovative storytelling into Project Fantasy. Instead of a linear narrative, the game will feature a dynamic story system where player choices significantly impact the world, influencing quests and events. Beyond narrative innovation, IO Interactive prioritizes community engagement, leveraging the lessons learned from the Hitman series' success, which was built on a strong player-developer relationship.

With its proven track record and commitment to innovation, IO Interactive is not merely entering the online RPG market; it's poised to redefine it. Through innovative storytelling, interactive environments, and robust community engagement, Project Fantasy promises a unique and immersive player experience.