Original developer Eric Chahi, in collaboration with French companies DotEmu and publisher BulkyPix has released a “20th Anniversary Edition” of his classic computer game Another World (called “Out of This World” in France) for iOS, featuring lightly upgraded graphics for HD and Retina displays (with the option of using the original graphics). Porting for the new version began in March and is the first “new” official version of the game since 2006.
Originally released in 1991 and ported to more than a dozen platforms, the original Another World remains well-regarded by retro gaming fans for its highly-developed fantasy world, the use of vector artwork for a more high-resolution (for the time) look and cinematic feel. The story of the game revolves around a scientist named Lester who is transported to an alternate world via a nuclear experiment.
The non-speaking hero must overcome numerous obstacles, including monsters, guards and an alien landscape that suffers from frequent earthquakes, in order to escape. The game was an early example of a combination of logic-game problem-solving combined with reflexive action skills.
The graphics for the game have been “remastered” to include more detail and support the resolution of devices like the iPhone 4 and iPad — thanks to the original use of vector graphics, players will be unlikely to notice any significant changes beyond a general smoothing. Users can switch back to the original graphics at any point if desired, and the iOS version features two sets of game controls — either the new, intuitive touch controls or a classic on-screen “d-pad.”
Another World now sports three levels of difficulty, with “Normal” being easier than the original game, “Difficult” matching the original release and “Hardcore” being more difficult. The game now has Game Center support (offering 13 unlockable achievements) and is available in five languages (English, French, Italian, German and Spanish). The original sound and special effects have been faithfully re-created. The app is a universal version and sells for $5.
