In 2019, House House released the quirky title *Untitled Goose Game*, a stealth game where players embody a mischievous goose causing chaos. Despite its simplicity, the game’s viral success raised curiosity about its background, particularly when Boss Fight Books announced a dedicated book about it. Author James O’Connor steps into this narrative, uncovering not only the game’s development but also shedding light on Australia’s gaming industry.
The Inspiration Behind the Book
James O’Connor’s primary motivation for writing the book stemmed from a desire to highlight the Australian game development scene. His background as a games journalist provided him insights into local industry dynamics. Historically, Australian studios gained recognition for their efficiency in porting and translating games. However, after the global financial crisis in the 2000s, many studios faced closures due to dwindling foreign investments. This shift coincided with the rise of mobile gaming, which opened new avenues for original game development, ultimately leading to the creation of *Untitled Goose Game*.
Connecting with the Community
During the research process, O’Connor discovered numerous connections within Australia’s gaming community related to the development of *Untitled Goose Game*. His experience in the industry allowed him to see familiar faces and stories, revealing how intertwined the community is. His book not only serves as an exploration of a specific game but also as a tribute to the generosity and collaborative spirit prevalent among Australian developers.
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
While not packed with wild anecdotes, the book offers insights into the serendipitous moments that shaped *Untitled Goose Game*. One notable story describes a pivotal day when the four House House team members solidified their partnership, illustrating the power of coincidence in the game’s development. O’Connor emphasizes that certain unexpected encounters played crucial roles in bringing the game to life.
A Memorable Page
When asked about standout moments in the book, O’Connor points to page 171 as a highlight. This page not only occurs near the end, signifying the reader’s journey through the book, but it also features an engaging element that he prefers not to spoil. He encourages readers to experience the entire narrative, inviting them to embrace the joyful chaos that *Untitled Goose Game* represents.
The book serves as a captivating exploration of a simple yet profound game and its significance within the broader context of the Australian game development landscape.