As a child, Brady Bell had a unique view of Hollywood life, often accompanying his father to work at MGM. He vividly recalls gazing into the world of coin-operated games through the window of Spielberg’s office, thinking how magical it must be to craft films and play games. Fast forward a few years, and Bell found himself in an equally thrilling situation, sitting in an LA office as Steven Spielberg provided feedback on his work.
While modelers around them were busy creating stunning visuals for Jurassic Park sequels, Bell’s screen showcased a very different type of madness. His project, a gothic horror shooter called Clive Barker’s Undying, was teeming with demonic creatures and intricate occult symbols, all framed within the opulent walls of a vast manor. This wasn’t a project being developed under the banner of DreamWorks Pictures; rather, it was born from the innovative realm of DreamWorks Interactive, the game studio that Spielberg established in 1995.
Undying, created in collaboration with the renowned horror author Clive Barker, marked an interesting moment in gaming history. The title recently celebrated its 25th anniversary, and while its creators acknowledge that it did not fundamentally shift the industry’s trajectory, they have nothing but fond memories and pride for their work. It was, after all, a labor of love.
One of the more playful elements of the game’s development came from Barker himself, who had some strong opinions about the protagonist, Patrick Galloway. According to the team, Barker was adamant that they give Galloway a certain charm, making him undeniably appealing. In a genre often dominated by monsters and mayhem, this focus on character attractiveness added an intriguing layer to the project, showcasing Barker’s consistent fascination with the intersection of horror and allure.
While Clive Barker’s Undying may not have gained the legendary status of some contemporaries, its unique narrative and striking visuals have left a lasting impression on those fortunate enough to experience it. The blending of horror and gameplay, crafted under the watchful eye of Spielberg and infused with Barker’s distinctive style, has cemented Undying’s place in the annals of gaming history. It stands as a reminder of a time when the industry was willing to explore the darker corners of creativity, all while aiming to capture a certain sense of beauty within its madness.
Source: rockpapershotgun.com
