In celebration of the 30th anniversary of the groundbreaking video game series, Leonardo Interactive is excited to announce the upcoming release of Simon the Sorcerer Origins. This prequel, developed by Italian studio Smallthing Studios, takes players on a magical journey back to the origins of the beloved Simon the Sorcerer universe. Set to launch in 2024 across all major platforms, the game promises to deliver nostalgia for long-time fans while introducing a new generation of players to the whimsical and humorous adventures of the iconic young wizard.
A Nostalgic Legacy
Simon the Sorcerer, a 2D point-and-click adventure, first captivated gamers’ hearts when it was introduced to the world in 1993. Created by Simon and Mike Woodroffe and developed by Adventure Soft, the game left a lasting impression on the industry and became a blueprint for future video game developments. Its release marked the golden age of video games in the 90s, characterized by the rise of graphic adventures, role-playing games, and the transition to three-dimensional graphics. Now, three decades later, the series is ready to make a triumphant return with Simon the Sorcerer Origins.
Smallthing Studios Crafts a Fresh Beginning
Driving the development of Simon the Sorcerer Origins is the passionate duo of Massimo Calamai, Founder and Game Director of Smallthing Studios, and Fabrizio Rizzo, Lead Game and Narrative Designer. Their ambitious vision involves taking inspiration from the classic 90s title and breathing new life into the series while retaining its core essence. By employing entirely hand-drawn illustrations and animations, the game’s graphic style seamlessly blends modern artistry with a nostalgic touch, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
A New Perspective on the Iconic Tale
Simon the Sorcerer Origins serves as a prequel to the original game, offering players a fresh perspective on the beloved series. The game’s narrative sets the stage just before the events of the original title, providing a direct link to the iconic moments that have remained etched in the memories of fans for years. This approach, driven by Smallthing Studios, aims to introduce a renewed sense of wonder and curiosity to the magical world of Simon, attracting players from all walks of life.
A Protagonist Like No Other
The titular character, Simon, has always been a central figure in the series’ success. His strong personality, rebellious nature, and sarcastic wit endeared him to players in the past, and he continues to shine in Simon the Sorcerer Origins. However, the new game adds more emotional depth and contemporary nuances to Simon’s character, making him even more relatable and endearing to players of all ages.
A Blend of Classic and Modern Gameplay
Smallthing Studios has taken careful consideration of players’ preferences by offering a choice between classic point-and-click gameplay and a more modern control scheme optimized for all devices. This thoughtful approach ensures that both seasoned fans and newcomers can enjoy the game in a way that suits their preferences and play styles.
A Surprise in the Soundtrack
Adding to the excitement of the upcoming release is the inclusion of a track by renowned singer-songwriter and musician, Rick Astley, in the game’s soundtrack. The collaboration brings a new dimension of charm and allure to the game, heightening the anticipation for the nostalgic adventure that lies ahead.
Embracing the Past and Present
With a dedicated all-Italian development team, Simon the Sorcerer Origins promises to be a labor of love that honors the cherished legacy of the original game. The studio’s commitment to crafting a captivating storyline, coupled with its unique hand-drawn art style, ensures that the portal to the magical realm of Simon will once again open in 2024, beckoning players to embark on a legendary adventure.
The Magic Returns in 2024
Simon the Sorcerer Origins is slated for release in 2024 and will be available on PC, Playstation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch, both in physical and digital formats. The game will be localized in over 10 different languages, making it accessible to a global audience. As the countdown to the release begins, players can look forward to rediscovering the magic of Simon’s world and creating new memories in a truly unforgettable gaming experience. So, mark
