Exploring the World of Hitman with IO Interactive's Hakan Abrak
Dec 19, 2024
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Hakan Abrak, CEO and co-owner of IO Interactive, shares his 18-year journey in game development, highlighting his role in the Hitman franchise. He discusses innovative elements of Hitman and the upcoming James Bond title, emphasizing the blend of legacy and fresh narratives. The conversation dives into their unique approach to live service in single-player games and how they adapted to post-pandemic challenges. Abrak also reflects on team dynamics and fostering a creative culture within a growing studio.
Hakan Abrak's journey from childhood gaming to CEO illustrates the impact of diverse experiences on leadership in the gaming industry.
IO Interactive's commitment to storytelling and unique gameplay has fostered the success of the Hitman franchise and its upcoming projects.
The cultural shift towards community-focused and iterative development at IO Interactive reflects their adaptability and dedication to evolving game design.
Deep dives
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Hakan Abrak's Journey in Game Development
Hakan Abrak, CEO of IO Interactive, shared his deep-rooted passion for gaming that began with the Commodore 64 during his childhood. This childhood interest evolved into a professional journey as he transitioned from various roles within the company to leadership, ultimately becoming CEO. He emphasized the importance of his experiences, including his time in mobile gaming and as a producer for well-known franchises, in shaping his perspective as a leader. His unique path illustrates the evolution of a developer who has dedicated almost two decades to crafting memorable gaming experiences.
Creating Iconic Game Franchises
IO Interactive's legacy includes the development of the beloved Hitman franchise, characterized by its unique blend of stealth and narrative. Abrak discussed the innovative multiplayer mode introduced in Kane and Lynch, highlighting its influence on current gaming trends, particularly in extraction gameplay. The studio's dedication to craftsmanship and the continuous push for originality has not only sustained their existing franchises but also led to the creation of new ones, such as the upcoming James Bond game. The commitment to storytelling and character depth has been a hallmark of IO Interactive's success across various titles.
The Evolution of IO Interactive's Development Philosophy
Abrak emphasized the cultural shift at IO Interactive towards a more community-focused and iterative development process, especially following the pandemic. The introduction of live service elements in titles like Hitman showcased a new approach, enabling regular content updates and player engagement. He highlighted the challenges of onboarding new team members and maintaining a cohesive culture across multiple studios while adapting to the evolving demands of game development. This shift reflects a commitment to growth and adaptability while staying true to the company's values and vision.
Future Directions: New IP and Bond
Looking ahead, IO Interactive plans to expand its portfolio with both the Bond game and an entirely new fantasy IP. The Bond project aims to create an original narrative for gamers, allowing the studio to define a new version of the iconic character. Additionally, Abrak expressed excitement about developing the fantasy project, which aligns with his personal interests. Both titles are expected to follow the same innovative principles established in Hitman's live service model, prioritizing fan engagement and ongoing content development.
Adam Orth chats with CEO & Co-Owner of IO Interactive, Hakan Abrak. Together they discuss Hakan's journey in games; the history and future of the Hitman series; their unique approach to live service in single player games; how they're preparing for a post-pandemic development environment; and their upcoming projects in the 007 universe and their own original IP.
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