The creator of Papers, Please wants developers to make weirder, more personal games - The Verge
Lucas Pope, the developer of Papers, Please and Return of the Obra Dinn, won a Pioneer Award at GDC 2025, and we interviewed him.
Pushing Boundaries in Game Development
In an industry often filled with blockbuster titles and competitive multiplayer experiences, Lucas Pope stands out for his commitment to creating unique, thought-provoking games. During our interview with him after receiving the prestigious Pioneer Award at GDC 2025, Pope emphasized the importance of pushing boundaries in game development.
"I believe that developers should challenge themselves to create games that are not only entertaining but also meaningful and personal," Pope stated. "We need more diversity in the types of experiences offered to players, and that means exploring unconventional themes and mechanics."
Embracing Weirdness in Game Design
Known for his unconventional approach to game design, Pope encouraged developers to embrace weirdness and quirkiness in their creations. "Weird games have the potential to resonate with players on a deeper level because they offer something unexpected and outside the norm," he explained. "By embracing the strange and the bizarre, developers can create experiences that stick with players long after they've finished playing."
Pope cited his own games, such as Papers, Please, as examples of how embracing weirdness can lead to critical and commercial success. "Many players were initially drawn to Papers, Please because of its unusual premise and gameplay mechanics," he noted. "It's essential for developers to take risks and not be afraid to explore uncharted territory in game design."
Importance of Personal Storytelling
Throughout his career, Pope has placed a strong emphasis on personal storytelling in his games. According to him, integrating personal narratives into game experiences can create a deeper connection between players and the virtual worlds they inhabit. "By infusing games with personal stories and emotions, developers can elicit powerful reactions from players and make a lasting impact," Pope said.
He stressed the need for developers to draw inspiration from their own lives and experiences when crafting game narratives. "Some of the most compelling stories come from a place of personal authenticity," Pope added. "Players appreciate when developers share a part of themselves through their games."
Challenging Conventional Gameplay
When it comes to gameplay mechanics, Pope urged developers to challenge conventional norms and experiment with new ideas. "Games have the potential to be much more than just entertainment-they can be vehicles for experimentation and exploration," he argued. "Developers should not be afraid to break away from traditional gameplay formulas and try something entirely different."
Pope's own game, Return of the Obra Dinn, is a testament to his commitment to challenging conventional gameplay. The investigative nature of the game and its unique art style set it apart from more mainstream titles, demonstrating the power of innovation in game design.
Community and Collaboration in Game Development
Throughout our conversation with Pope, he underscored the importance of community and collaboration in game development. According to him, fostering a supportive environment for developers to share ideas and feedback is crucial for the growth of the industry. "Community-driven initiatives and collaborative projects can lead to groundbreaking innovations in game design," Pope noted.
He also highlighted the role of players in shaping the future of gaming. "Listening to player feedback and engaging with the community is essential for creating games that resonate with a diverse audience," Pope said. "Developers should view players as valuable partners in the creative process."
The Future of Game Development
Looking ahead, Pope expressed optimism about the future of game development and the potential for even more diverse and personal experiences in the industry. "I believe that the best is yet to come for game developers who are willing to take risks and explore new avenues of creativity," he shared.
He encouraged aspiring developers to follow their passion and strive to create games that reflect their unique perspectives and interests. "The future of game development lies in the hands of those who are unafraid to be different and push the boundaries of what games can achieve," Pope concluded.
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