An 'IMMORTALITY' Project: Creating the Ultimate Interactive Movie

In this GDC 2023 session, hear how Sam Barlow and Half Mermaid conceived and then designed the multi-dimensional, decade-spanning series of interconnected Interactive Movies, IMMORTALITY. Learn about the design processes and prototypes that allowed the team to explore the game ideas and structure. How the ambitious and layered story was outlined and researched, and how the team collaborated with notable screenwriters to tap into authenticity. How game design learning translates into the production and directing of the three movies worth of footage. Finally, what learnings other teams can take from this ambitious and boundary pushing title to apply to their own genres and game ideas.
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[@lucymariposa]

Immortality became one of my favourite games of all time. Its an absolute masterpiece and Sam continues to create games unlike anybody else and to keep evolving the way he does it. I really cant wait for his next project.

[@spencerdriggs373]

Her Story is still one of my most influential games, thank you Sam Barlow for sharing the methods!

[@TheSchwarzKater]

I liked Immortality, I've never played a game like that. Though the final goal should've been easier to achieve. For me it felt like pure art, often hard to understand. But then on the characters 100% dragged me into watching more and more clips and puzzle the story together. Maybe if it had been just one story timeline and not multiple it would've been much better.

[@i-am-the-slime]

I don't care what the talk is about. The game is great!

[@i-am-the-slime]

I also care what the talk is about.

[@FoxHoundUnit89]

Step 1) get a job at Sony, every one of their exclusives is a movie game. Supposed Quick Time Events that you can't fail because the game pauses until you press them, rock climbing, and an over-the-shoulder 2/3 perspective camera every time.

[@Hanzo615]

Game: Has literally one cutscene. Gamer: I want to play a game, not watch a movie REeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!

[@FoxHoundUnit89]

@@Hanzo615 My favorite franchises are Final Fantasy and Metal Gear Solid. Your "logic" is awful. I want cutscenes and gameplay separated. I want to watch a cutscene while snacking, taking a drink, or relaxing. You want "games" where you watch your character do cool shit and you have absolutely no input other than occasionally pressing X after time stops.