Meet the Team Behind the Scenes: An Exclusive Look at Crossy Road Development
Crossy Road, the popular mobile game that has taken the world by storm with its endless combinations of characters and addictive gameplay, may seem like a simple game on the surface. But, as we delve deeper into the development process, it becomes clear that there’s more to this game than meets the eye. In this exclusive article, we take you behind the scenes here of the Crossy Road development team and explore what makes this game tick.
The Birth of a Game
Crossy Road was first conceived by two Australian developers, Andrew Sorrell and Harrison Gabel, back in 2014. The idea for the game was born out of their love for classic arcade games and their desire to create something new and innovative. "We were experimenting with different genres and gameplay mechanics," says Sorrell. "We wanted to make a game that was easy to pick up but hard to put down." And so, Crossy Road was born.
Meet the Development Team
Today, the Crossy Road development team is comprised of over 50 talented individuals from around the world. Each member brings their unique skills and expertise to the table, working together to create a game that’s both engaging and challenging. "We’re a close-knit team," says Gabel. "Everyone is passionate about what they do, and we all work together towards a common goal."
The team is led by Andrew Sorrell, who serves as the Game Director. With over 10 years of experience in game development, Sorrell brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He’s responsible for overseeing the overall direction of the game and ensuring that it meets the high standards set by the developers.
Gameplay Mechanics
One of the key features that sets Crossy Road apart from other games is its innovative gameplay mechanics. Players control a character, navigating through busy roads, avoiding obstacles, and collecting rewards. The game’s core mechanic is based on a simple concept: tap to move left or right, swipe to jump, and hold to speed up.
Designing the Perfect Character
At Crossy Road, characters are an integral part of the gameplay experience. With hundreds of characters to choose from, each with its unique appearance and abilities, players can experiment with different combinations to suit their playing style. The design process for new characters is a collaborative effort between artists, designers, and developers.
"We have a huge library of assets," says Sorrell. "Artists create the initial designs, which are then refined by our designers. We also involve our community in the design process through polls and feedback." This iterative approach ensures that every character added to the game is carefully crafted to fit seamlessly into the gameplay experience.
The Role of Music and Sound Effects
Music and sound effects play a crucial role in creating an immersive atmosphere in Crossy Road. The game’s soundtrack, composed by Andrew Van Buren, is both catchy and nostalgic, evoking memories of classic arcade games from the 80s and 90s.
"We experiment with different genres and styles to create a unique sound," says Gabel. "Our team also works closely with external composers to ensure that every track complements the gameplay experience." As for sound effects, they’re carefully designed to heighten the sense of tension and excitement, making players feel like they’re right there on the road.
The Business Side
While game development is often associated with creative pursuits, Crossy Road’s success also depends on its business side. The team at Kabam, a mobile gaming studio that acquired Crossy Road in 2016, has been instrumental in shaping the game’s revenue streams and user engagement strategies.
"We focus on creating a positive player experience," says Jason Gertzen, VP of Product at Kabam. "Our monetization model is designed to provide value to players while also generating revenue for the company." By offering in-game purchases, advertising, and other revenue streams, Crossy Road has managed to generate significant revenue without sacrificing its core values.
Challenges and Future Plans
As with any game development project, Crossy Road’s team has faced numerous challenges along the way. From balancing gameplay mechanics to managing player expectations, every decision requires careful consideration and collaboration.
Looking ahead, the team is eager to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in mobile gaming. "We’re exploring new genres and gameplay styles," says Gabel. "Our goal is to create a game that appeals to players across different age groups and demographics." With a loyal community and a continued focus on innovation, Crossy Road is poised for even greater success in the future.
The Secret to Success
So what’s the secret behind Crossy Road’s enduring appeal? According to the development team, it’s simple: "We focus on creating a game that’s fun and engaging," says Sorrell. "Players are our top priority." By listening to feedback, experimenting with new ideas, and pushing the boundaries of mobile gaming, Crossy Road has become one of the most beloved games in recent years.
In conclusion, Crossy Road is more than just a simple game on the surface. It’s a testament to the power of creativity, collaboration, and innovation in game development. As we look forward to what the future holds for this iconic game, one thing is clear: the team behind the scenes will continue to push the limits of what’s possible in mobile gaming.
