Matt Larrabee, the mind behind Echo Point Nova, is carving out a distinct space in the crowded world of first-person shooters by embracing what he calls ‘2007-core’ game design. His approach might sound like a throwback, but it’s more a deliberate nod to an era of shooters that emphasized fluid movement and tight mechanics without the overwhelming complexity seen in many modern titles. For Larrabee, these are the games that shaped how he thinks about gameplay, and he’s unapologetic about crafting shooters that feel at home with that old-school energy.
Echo Point Nova captures the spirit of that time with fast, responsive movement and a keen focus on player skill over bells and whistles. It’s a niche move in a genre saturated by huge, polished blockbusters, but Larrabee knows there’s an audience that craves this kind of design. In his eyes, it’s what he calls a millennial shooter, catering to players who grew up on the foundations of games from the mid-2000s and want something that respects that heritage without trying to reinvent the wheel too much.
His philosophy shines through in every aspect of Echo Point Nova. Rather than chase current trends, Larrabee leans into simplicity and depth, giving players tools to master the environment and movement. It’s a reminder of why those older shooters felt so rewarding—they demanded precision, quick thinking, and a honed sense of timing.
While the mainstream FPS landscape moves toward spectacular visuals and sprawling modes, Larrabee’s work feels refreshingly focused. Echo Point Nova isn’t trying to capture everyone. Instead, it’s designed for those who remember the golden age of twitch shooters and want to keep that momentum alive, offering a vibrant, skill-centric experience that stands apart from the crowd.
Source: pcgamer.com
