What's Happening?
American McGee, the creator of Alice: Madness Returns, recently shared insights into the unique development process of the game. The development team, Spicy Horse, based in Shanghai, was able to maintain creative control over the game due to a 'bond finance'
deal with a Los Angeles bank, rather than traditional funding from Electronic Arts (EA). This arrangement allowed the team to reject certain marketing-driven requests from EA, such as making the game more 'sexy' or portraying Alice as a 'psychotic' character. McGee humorously recounted how he used 'dildo snails' to push back against these requests. Despite the creative freedom, the game was delivered on time and within budget, although EA did not grant additional time for final polishing.
Why It's Important?
The financing model used for Alice: Madness Returns is significant as it highlights an alternative approach to game development that prioritizes creative control. This model allowed the developers to stay true to their vision without succumbing to external marketing pressures. It also marked a milestone as the first AAA game fully developed by a Chinese team and the first to be bond financed in China. This approach could inspire other developers seeking to maintain artistic integrity while navigating the commercial demands of the gaming industry.
What's Next?
While EA has not pursued a third installment of the Alice series, McGee is working on a spiritual successor based on his Plushie Dreadfuls toys. This project involves a small team of trusted collaborators, indicating McGee's continued commitment to creative projects that align with his vision. The success of this new venture could further demonstrate the viability of alternative financing models in the gaming industry.
Beyond the Headlines
The story of Alice: Madness Returns underscores the tension between creative vision and commercial interests in the gaming industry. It raises questions about the role of marketing in shaping game content and the potential for alternative financing to empower developers. The experience of Spicy Horse may encourage other developers to explore non-traditional funding sources to preserve their creative autonomy.
