How do you make a strategy game? Paradox and Firaxis sound off at Gamesradar

[Regina]

"So, so strategic
From StarCraft to Civilization, XCOM to Europa Universalis IV, strategy games are some of the most rewarding experiences to be found in the medium--but they're also the most complex.
Whereas some developers have attempted to simplify the genre, others revel in its intricacies, creating wonderful sandboxes for players to dig around and explore.


Two developers with very different approaches are Paradox and Firaxis. Firaxis, with releases including XCOM: Enemy Unknown and Civilization V, prides itself on making amazingly deep games that are accessible to any audience. Paradox is known for making deeper, more complex products that are beloved by those looking for incredibly dense, satisfying experiences. How do their methods differ? We asked the same questions to Thomas Johansson (project lead at Paradox Development Studio) and the Firaxis duo Ed Beach/Dennis Shirk (designers of Civ V and its expansions) to see how they approach such a complex genre."
http://www.gamesradar.com/how-do-you-make-strategy-game-paradox-and-firaxis-sound/

Enjoy!

Cheers,
regina

 

[th3freakie]

So what we have here is the interpretation of a series of questions? What a strange format...

 

[General Baker]

At first I thought it was strange that a team was answering for Firaxis, while only Johan chipped in for Paradox, but then I realised the significant difference in size between the two companies...

 

[I_AM_King_Midas]

Two of my favorite companies.

 

[Dutchling]

I don't... understand that website o.o

I mean, where is the interview?

 

[podcat]

I don't... understand that website o.o

I mean, where is the interview?

the UI is a bit of a catastrophy. You have to click on the pictures to get to the next page

 

[delra]

the UI is a bit of a catastrophy. You have to click on the pictures to get to the next page

Lol, look at a PDS dev criticise someone else's UI. ) *runs from dinosaurs*

 

[Arentak]

Nevertheless, the website UI is awful. I did eventually figure it out.

 

[User29]

Wonderful article. Paradox adding content for free in patches is so glorious. Firaxis aint got nothin on paradox

 

[General Baker]

Nevertheless, the website UI is awful. I did eventually figure it out.

Oh christ, glad I'm not alone. It took me 15 minutes of bewilderment to realise.