Ubisoft Montreal, renowned for titles like Assassin's Creed Valhalla and Far Cry 6, is reportedly crafting a new voxel-based game codenamed "Alterra." This exciting project, drawing inspiration from both Minecraft and Animal Crossing, blends building mechanics with social simulation elements. Insider Gaming's November 26th report suggests "Alterra" emerged from a previously canceled four-year project.
The gameplay, according to sources, will feature a charming loop reminiscent of Animal Crossing. Instead of anthropomorphic villagers, players interact with "Matterlings," whimsical creatures resembling Funko Pops, inspired by both fantasy and real-world animals. These creatures, boasting varied designs and attire, inhabit a home island that serves as a central hub.
Exploration extends beyond the home island, with players venturing into diverse biomes to gather resources and encounter new Matterlings. However, this journey isn't without peril, as enemies populate the various environments. Building utilizes Minecraft-style mechanics, with biomes providing specific materials; forests yield wood, for instance.
Development, led by Fabien Lhéraud (a 24-year Ubisoft veteran) and creative director Patrick Redding (known for Gotham Knights, Splinter Cell Blacklist, and Far Cry 2), has been underway for over 18 months, starting in December 2020. While the details are promising, it's crucial to remember that "Alterra" is in development and subject to change.
Understanding Voxel Games:
Voxel games utilize a unique rendering technique. Objects are built from tiny cubes or voxels, assembled to create 3D models. This contrasts with polygon-based games (like S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2 or Metaphor: ReFantazio), which use triangles to form surfaces. Voxel games offer a distinct, blocky aesthetic and prevent the "clipping" issue common in polygon-based games. While polygon rendering remains prevalent for efficiency, Ubisoft's foray into voxel technology with "Alterra" presents an intriguing prospect. The game's visuals are described as a unique blend of the aesthetic of Minecraft and the social gameplay of Animal Crossing.
