The acclaimed duo behind the challenging platformer N++ is making waves once again, unveiling their latest project, N Plus Infinity Times Two, set for launch in 2027. Eleven years since the release of N++, a game lauded for its punishing difficulty and elegant design, co-founders Raigan Burns and Mare Sheppard are shifting gears to focus on multiplayer gameplay, responding to evolving trends in how players interact.
Originally released in 2015, N++ was the culmination of a decade’s worth of dedication, building upon a legacy that traces back to the pioneering free Flash title, N. After experiencing both critical and commercial success, Burns famously expressed hopes that they would not wait another decade before announcing their next project. Now, that time has come, but with a twist: multiplayer.
Multiplayer Mayhem Awaits
N Plus Infinity Times Two promises to redefine the exhilarating platforming experience for today's gamers. Where its predecessor offered a solitary challenge, this new iteration aims to captivate players with “the ultimate virtual couch party game,” allowing friends to team up and compete across multiple modes. The emphasis will remain on accessible gameplay, featuring a low skill floor paired with an unbounded skill ceiling, encouraging both casual and experienced players to engage together. The game will be available on the PS5, Xbox, Switch 2, and PC platforms.
A Unique Studio Journey
Metanet has taken an unconventional path since the release of N++. The duo relocated from Toronto to Montreal, where they have pursued a variety of projects while remaining committed to their craft. Over the years, they experimented with new ideas and released a significant anniversary update for N++, but ultimately felt a strong desire to return to the game's roots.
“We started getting the ‘let’s take another crack at it’ bug in 2022,” Burns shared, highlighting the studio's relentless pursuit of creativity without the pressures that often come from larger operations. Despite the success of previous titles, Metanet has deliberately chosen to remain small, focusing on delivering high-quality gaming experiences without sacrificing their artistic vision.
The Vision for the Future
This latest project springs from observing younger gamers, who often blur the lines between solo and multiplayer experiences, chatting with friends even in single-player modes. This observation inspired the duo to seamlessly blend couch co-op elements into the N universe, aiming to recapture the magic of more social gaming experiences they fondly remember.
Burns admitted that the development of N++ was a grueling experience filled with repetitive challenges, but the creative process behind N Plus Infinity Times Two presents a refreshing change. “We’re really fluent in this one instrument,” he remarked, hinting at the excitement of experimenting with new gameplay styles while staying true to their foundational strengths.
Distinctive Identity Amid Industry Homogeneity
As the gaming landscape grows increasingly uniform, Burns emphasizes the importance of maintaining a distinct identity. He believes that staying true to one's vision not only enhances the joy of creation but can also offer substantial commercial advantages. “Being yourself is more fun and exciting anyways,” he stated. “But I honestly think it’s more commercially viable to do something only you can do, because then you have no competition.”
While the future beyond N Plus Infinity Times Two remains uncertain, the duo possesses several innovative ideas, potentially including larger 3D projects. However, they remain committed to their principles and have not ruled out revisiting the beloved N universe once more in future endeavors.
For fans of challenging and creative gameplay, the anticipation for N Plus Infinity Times Two is sure to build as its 2027 release approaches, heralding an exciting new chapter in the N franchise.
Source: The Verge
Source: The Verge
