Last week, Death Game Hotel was released, offering players a unique and comically gory gaming experience. Developed by White Owls, headed by Hidetaka “Swery” Suehiro, this game deviates from the studio’s usual offerings. Set in a virtual reality environment, players engage in casino-style card games where they bet their own limbs to raise the stakes.
One of the standout features of Death Game Hotel is its multiplayer component. Players can engage in jovial interactions, such as bubble-popping and chicken-squeezing, amidst the comedy blood spurts. Swery himself expressed his interest in exploring more multiplayer gaming experiences in the future. He teased, “I would like to leverage this experience to challenge myself with something new in the online multiplayer realm.”
Inspiration Amidst the Pandemic
The concept of a mortal multiplayer table game was born during the Covid-19 pandemic. As the team at White Owls found themselves isolated during the “Stay Home” phase, they turned to VR as a means of socializing and collaborating. This experience inspired the development of Death Game Hotel, creating a space for people to gather and connect virtually.
With Death Game Hotel being Swery’s 17th published game, it’s evident that he has a wealth of experience in the industry. From cult favorite titles like Deadly Premonition to the cozy village simulator The Good Life, Swery has created a diverse portfolio of games. Despite the mixed reception his games sometimes receive, Swery remains satisfied with his studio’s body of work.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Developers
When asked for advice for young developers, Swery emphasized the importance of knowing what you’re creating. He highlighted the contrast between big companies investing in AAA titles and indie developers offering unique experiences. According to Swery, having a clear understanding of what sets your game apart is crucial for success.
Swery’s Personal Insights
Beyond his game development endeavors, Swery is also a certified Buddhist monk with a soft spot for felines. Offering advice on coping with the loss of a beloved cat, Swery’s compassionate nature shines through. Whether it’s suggesting getting another pet or finding solace in the belief of a future reunion, Swery’s perspective on healing is both heartfelt and practical.
For those eager to dive into the world of Death Game Hotel, the game is available for purchase on the Meta store for Oculus users. Additionally, players can join the studio’s Discord server to interact with the development team and possibly engage in gaming sessions with Swery himself.
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