Camper Vanis in the works for PC, mobile, and the Nintendo Switch after hitting its Kickstarter goal in just 16 hours. If nothing else, that speaks to the popularity of cozy organizational games.Camper Van’sblock organization puzzles and focus on interior design may satisfy quite a few folks then, but the creators say its puzzle gameplay also foreshadows a deeper meaning to the protagonist’s and player’s journey.
In a recent interview with Game Rant,Camper Vancreator Malapata Studio, an independent video game studio from Spain, detailed the correlation between its environmental storytelling and campers' personal growth through the puzzle gameplay. The studio also added why cozy games continue to be on the rise and what satisfying puzzles really say about human nature.
Taking The Scenic Route in Camper Van
Instead of staying in one area,Camper Vanwill take players to different landscapes like peaceful beaches and snowy tundras. Scenic designs in video games tend to leave a long-lasting impression on players;The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdomis a prime example of how fantasy worlds can be breathtaking.Red Dead Redemption 2set a high bar for realistic open-world games, and that’s just two examples. A game’s environment and design can say so much about it; crisp scenery can also further immerse players in the virtual world. InCamper Van, players will unlock different destinations including beaches, snow-filled areas, tranquil forests, and elevated cliffs during “different stages of the journey.” They can also choose to “adapt” their van and change it into a four-wheel drive for the beach or a forest-friendly design for the spring.
In Camper Van, each distinct location serves as a symbolic marker in the protagonist’s personal journey.These diverse settings encapsulate the emotional path of both the player and their camper. It’s not just about the scenery; these spots mirror the ups and downs of self-discovery and personal growth.
Malapata Studio told Game Rant that the visuals aren’t just for looks; it’s meant to intertwine withCamper Van’s story.
In Camper Van, environmental storytelling is meticulously crafted to convey the camper’s journey visually…They’re like silent storytellers, painting the journey of the camper in visuals. It’s all about emotions and personal growth. This way, players get to feel and interpret the narrative in their own way, forging a real, deep bond with the world of Camper Van.
Organization Is Key in Camper Van
Cozy games weren’t always this popular. They had an audience, but it really wasn’t until 2020, after the global pandemic, that the genre took off.Animal Crossing: New Horizonsarguably led the way, and now, titles likeDisney Dreamlight ValleyandCozy Grovehave entered the space. Of all the cozy games out there, though, Malapata Studio acknowledged on Kickstarter that the two key inspirations forCamper VanwereUnpackingandAssemble With Care. Unpackingfollows an unnamed protagonist where players use block puzzles and decorationto learn about their life through their items.InAssemble With Care, players join antique restorer Maria and help her repair old-school objects. Malapata Studio said they had an “amazing” experience with these games' mechanics and story.
The cozy game genre provides a canvas for creating an inviting and comforting atmosphere…The combination of soothing visuals, engaging gameplay, and a narrative-driven approach fosters an environment conducive to storytelling, allowing us to weave a tale of self-discovery that resonates with players on a personal level.
But, according to Malapata Studio, there’s more to be said about satisfying, relaxing puzzles.Cozy gamesallow players to enjoy them at their own pace and wind down.
This meticulous approach to organization taps into the innate human desire for order and aesthetics, providing a satisfying and fulfilling aspect to the gaming experience. In games like Camper Van, diving into zen puzzles and getting everything in order isn’t just about tidying up stuff. It’s about giving players a sweet taste of accomplishment and control…It’s a little sanctuary from the daily noise, offering a calm and soothing environment where you can find peace and tranquility, with no timers, no scores and no need to complete missions to get everything done.
Players will have full creative freedom inCamper Van, creating their own mini, traveling sanctuary. Allowing campers to unlock new locations after missions could prevent the gameplay from feeling stagnant. It also seems like Malapata Studio took the best features ofUnpackingandAssemble With Care, merging them to createa brand-new experience in the cozy game genre. It’s not too complicated, and it’s not too simplistic–decorate a camper van, choose a pet companion, and grow as a person along the way.
Camper Vanis in development for Mobile, PC, and Switch.
