When a game is helmed by the distinct creative minds of **Suda51** (of _Killer7_ and _No More Heroes_ fame) and **Swery65** (the visionary behind _Deadly Premonition_), you can expect something truly unconventional. Their latest collaboration,
**Hotel Barcelona**, is a stylish and violent **side-scrolling roguelite** that’s already generating buzz among tech enthusiasts and gamers alike. The premise is compelling: players embody Justine, a US Marshall possessed by a killer’s spirit, whose mission is to fight her way out of a haunted hotel serving as a grim residence for seven of the nation’s most dangerous murderers.
Further enhancing its roguelite framework is a unique mechanic: past versions of yourself can manifest and join you in subsequent escape attempts. These spectral allies aren’t just for show; they actively assist by dealing damage and distracting enemies, operating much like a ghost in _Mario Kart_ that could directly influence the race outcome.
Swery’s Creative Vision and Inspirations
During an insightful interview at the PC Gaming Show Tokyo Direct, **Swery65** delved into the creative process behind _Hotel Barcelona_’s distinct style and genre. He revealed a personal journey back to his roots, explaining his aim to infuse the game with an old-school “**hardcore spirit**” reminiscent of the classic arcade titles that shaped his early career and influenced his mentors. This offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistic intent guiding this unique project.
Development Challenges and White Owls’ Role
The seed for _Hotel Barcelona_ was planted during a collaborative trip to Banff, Canada, where Suda51 and Swery first conceived their vision. Their plans, once solidified, were pitched to Devolver for funding. However, despite Suda51’s prior collaborations with the publisher, Devolver ultimately passed on the project. This unexpected turn led to a surprising development: Swery, driven by his conviction, opted to develop the game independently under his own banner, **White Owls**. Suda51 openly admitted his astonishment, having only offered light feedback, and was particularly struck by how intensely hardcore the action gameplay had evolved, a testament to Swery’s unwavering vision.
Thematic Influences and Game Release
With many of its core concepts forged within a snowy Banff hotel, it’s perfectly fitting that Stanley Kubrick’s **_The Shining_** stands as a significant thematic influence. Swery65 shared that his preferred in-game weapons—the baseball bat and kitchen knife—are a direct homage, chosen precisely because they are “the weapons that Jack’s wife used to attack him with in my favorite movie, _The Shining_.” This blend of horror inspiration and unique gameplay is now ready for players to dive into;
_Hotel Barcelona_ is available now on Steam, offering a distinct horror-action roguelite experience.
To discover more cutting-edge titles and developer insights, explore additional coverage from the PC Gaming Show Tokyo Direct and beyond, right here on **Digital Tech Explorer**.
