The demanding world of mountain exploration and strategy in Above the Snow gains an extra layer of authenticity thanks to a unique partnership with Cortazu, a technical mountain sports brand. We spoke with the company, which revealed that the game's blend of management and deep exploration captivated them most, reminding them of real-life climbing challenges. Find out why making long-term, strategic decisions is key to success in the game and what role their high-performance gear will play in , snowy environment.
What captivated you most about the game Above the Snow that made you decide to collaborate?
For me, the scenery and the concept of the game were the most important. I am a big outdoor enthusiast, and at Cortazu I can put my passion into practice. But, I have also spent some healthy hours indoors in gaming, from first-person shooters to (since I have grown older) more slow-paced simulation/management games like Frostpunk. Above the snow has this combination of exploration and management, which I really like. With that, I think its vision on exploration fits well with our brand.
Does the game remind you of real-world mountaineering experiences?
In essence, it shares many of the same choices that you have to make while mountaineering. When mountaineering or hiking, you have to think long-term. Sure, running up the mountain in a straight line might make the fastest progression in the beginning, but I can assure you that you will be caught up by the person who chooses the path of the least resistance, that is, able to keep a pace without getting tired. This means sometimes taking a route that is a bit longer, and ´´seems´´ more time-consuming.
When exploring in Above the Snow, you have to make similar decisions. Exploration takes effort and materials, dependent on the path you take. Strategy is key!
How do you see Cortazu´s role in the game?
Cortazu is a technical mountain sports brand. We design our products for a specific purpose, and from there on look at how we can add features to make it as versatile as possible. With Cortazu, you can prepare yourself for anything that nature throws at you. And now you can wear our gear in Above the Snow!
We gave the developers from Above the Snow creative freedom, so I am also curious to see exactly what role Cortazu will have in the game when it launches. But I think in essence our different lines of jackets, pants, and mid-layers can make great items suited for different types of weather or circumstances. A better jacket means better protection from the natural environment, increasing your chances of a successful exploration. So be sure to outfit your characters in some Cortazu!
Do you think video games can have an impact on the popularization of mountain tourism and Himalayan mountaineering?
Yes, although I think the two markets (gaming and outdoors) have very different target audiences. In essence, it is of course paradoxical: Playing a game indoors, to explore the outdoors. But I think (like I have) a balance between the two is what makes both so engaging, and maybe even strengthens the fun from both worlds. Games can be great learning tools and a source of inspiration, hopefully enough to take action and do that one hike in your area that you have always wanted to do.
What I think lies still an opportunity is to link real-life spots, trails, and events to a game, so people can try what they are playing in a virtual world, themselves in the real world. How great would it be if you had to explore a mountain trail in-game, to find out then this hiking trail really exists and you can explore it yourself!
How did your sports community react to the news of your participation in the game?
We have still kept it internally so far. When the game is near launch, we want to create a social media push to get our fans to try the game. For us, a partnership with a game is totally new, but we think it makes for a very original and, in this case, also a logical fit, so high hopes!
In one sentence, how would you recommend the game Above the Snow?
In this time of always being busy, I think it is good to kick back and engage with something that has a form of ´´deepness. To give an example: A book is in the most classic form; once engaged, you can lose yourself in it completely and forget the time. I think the younger generation is less book-oriented, but still can spend time and thought into things they find interesting. A game like Above the Snow fits into this space and is a great way to relax while still requiring strategic thinking and conscious decision-making. So yes, if this style of gaming is new to you and you like the outdoors, try Above the Snow!