Finding the right tone in a creative process is always a delicate step. In the case of Chickenhare and the Treasure of Spiking-Beard, the challenge was even more complex, as the game is set in an already established universe—including the comics and films—which had already shaped the characters, their journeys, their personalities, and their voices. And it’s easy to fall into the trap of repeating familiar patterns. “We didn’t want to imitate the film, but we wanted to respect its spirit,” explained Vincenzo Bianca, CEO of N-ZONE.
So how do you do that? How do you preserve the charm, humor, and optimism that define the familiar characters from the films? Three pillars: rhythm, tone, and interactions. “We embraced a tone that blends adventure, humor, self-discovery, and tenderness—elements from the film—while also incorporating features unique to video games, like a faster pace and more interactions.”
Because unlike a film, which you passively watch, a game requires player input and engagement. You have to find ways to integrate that active participation into the game’s rhythm. That means the dialogue needs to be more entertaining, more intense, and more engaging—because beyond their classic narrative function, lines in a game serve other purposes: informing, guiding, encouraging, and framing the player experience.
“Every line was crafted to add nuance, speak to fans, or help move the game forward. We had the freedom to create an original story while staying true to the characters’ personalities and relationships, and that balance was achieved thanks to the open discussions we had with nWave. Those conversations allowed us to imagine new worlds and dynamics while keeping the same playful, curious, and slightly chaotic spirit,” Vincenzo Bianca added. All this, while making sure the game stays accessible to both seasoned players and young adventurers alike.
It’s by finding that unique recipe that Chickenhare and the Treasure of Spiking-Beard was born—both a tribute and an original story within the Chickenhare universe.
Don’t miss our upcoming articles for more behind-the-scenes insights into the development of Chickenhare and the Treasure of Spiking-Beard!