Bithell Games
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"I genuinely think there's awesome potential": Mike Bithell on his "im-slim" Vampirium: 1997 and the power of quick verbs
Mike Bithell discusses his upcoming game Vampirium: 1997, an "im-slim" immersive sim that focuses on text and menu options rather than traditional 3D visuals. He explains how this approach allows for rapid implementation of new mechanics and "verbs," giving players more agency. Bithell also shares his enjoyment of creative independence after his previous studio, Bithell Games, had to lay off staff following the underperformance of Tron: Identity.
"Across the industry, we don't think enough about how we match the scope to what we're making" – Mike Bithell on why the world needs an im-slim
Mike Bithell discusses the challenges faced by indie developers, including the recent downsizing of Bithell Games. He introduces his new experimental immersive sim, Vampirium 1997, which adopts a minimalist, tile-based approach to reduce development scope and cost. Bithell advocates for better matching project scope to market potential, criticizing the industry's risk aversion and reliance on established IPs.
Something for the Weekend – 11/07/26
This week's news includes Microsoft confirming significant layoffs affecting multiple studios, Palworld's 1.0 launch with a large patch, and matchmaking issues for Black Ops players on PlayStation 4 and 5. God of War Laufey is slated for a 2027 release, and a petition to save physical games has garnered over 285,000 signatures.
Bithell Games announce Vampirium: 1997, an ‘imslim’ vampire game
Bithell Games has announced Vampirium: 1997, a new vampire-themed game described as an 'imslim' genre. Players take on the role of Dracula's descendant, the King of Britain, tasked with eliminating enemies through a unique tile-and-verb action execution system. The game is set to launch in Early Access on Steam.
Vampirium: 1997 Announced
Bithell Games has announced that Vampirium: 1997, a vampiric tactics game set before the year 2000, will be coming soon to Steam Early Access. The game features a unique twist on the established genre.
England Has A New King, And He’s Thirsty For Blood In Vampirium 1997
Bithell Games has announced Vampirium 1997, a non-linear horror game set in an alternate late '90s England where players assassinate enemies for the vampire King of England. The game, described as an immersive sim, will feature careful planning, observation, and the upgrade of vampiric powers. Vampirium 1997 is planned for an early access launch on PC, with a novella titled "The Last Portrait" also released to set the mood.
"Dracula is King of England" - New immersive sim Vampirium: 1997 announced by Tron: Catalyst and Thomas Was Alone developer Bithell Games
Bithell Games, known for Tron: Catalyst and Thomas Was Alone, has announced Vampirium: 1997, a new immersive vampire sim. Players will act as an assassin for Dracula, the King of England, using dark gifts to eliminate enemies. The game features a top-down tactical perspective with time management mechanics and will be available on Steam Deck.
Become King Dracula's personal vamp-assassin in Vampirium: 1997, an immersive sim Bithell Games are launching into Steam early access soon
Bithell Games is launching its immersive sim Vampirium: 1997 into Steam early access soon. Players will take on the role of a vamp-assassin descended from Dracula, tasked with eliminating his enemies through stealth or direct combat. The game is planned for an approximately two-year early access period, with new content and features to be added over time.
Mike Bithell’s Journey From Auteur To Studio Boss
Mike Bithell, CEO and creative director of Bithell Games, discusses his journey from creating the indie hit Thomas Was Alone to leading a studio. He reflects on the challenges of modern indie development and the inspiration behind his TRON-inspired games, TRON: Catalyst and TRON: Identity. The interview also touches on the evolution of game development and the importance of studio leadership.
Amberspire review - this eco city-builder from the dev behind one of 2023's best games is a grower
Amberspire is an intriguing yet frustrating eco city-builder from the developer of The Banished Vault, set on a moon that serves as a mausoleum. The game combines isometric turn-based city-building with dice-based mechanics, pitting players against environmental challenges like rust, fog, water, and grass. Despite its reliance on luck and occasional inconsistencies in its event system, Amberspire offers a unique and reflective experience that encourages players to consider the balance between urban growth and ecological needs.
How useful is AI for coding?
This article explores the utility of AI in game development coding, presenting both the advantages and disadvantages cited by industry professionals. While some developers find AI tools transformative for tasks like code navigation, summarization, and rapid prototyping, others express concerns about accuracy, understanding, and the potential for increased technical debt. The consensus suggests AI is a powerful supporting tool rather than a replacement for human programmers.
