After Veewo Games unveiled the sequel to their side-scrolling roguelite action game, Neon Abyss, the team graciously responded to some of our inquiries. Lans Wang, the creative director of the game, provided answers about various aspects of Neon Abyss 2, including its innovative multiplayer mode, how it distinguishes itself from its predecessor, and even the studio’s future plans for the title. So, let’s dive into the interview without any delay!
How would you characterize the most significant differences between Neon Abyss 2 and its predecessor, besides the incorporation of multiplayer mode?
In comparing Neon Abyss 2 to its predecessor, it’s clear that multiplayer stands out as the most significant enhancement. Initially, multiplayer was actually the primary change we aimed for, inspired by the passionate feedback we received from the devoted fanbase of the original game.
However, we quickly conceived additional concepts to incorporate. Firstly, an enhanced armory is one such idea, where players can now utilize an array of tools such as swords, knuckles, magical artifacts, and even sports gear. This means it’s not just about guns (and plenty of them), but rather a diverse selection of weapons within each category, all embodying the unpredictable effects and synergies characteristic of the Abyss.
In simpler terms, the Faith system serves as an additional feature, offering players various options, enhancements, and incentives when adhering to specific gameplay styles. By matching their playstyle with the selected Faith, they can access a range of diverse benefits from their unlocked Temple.
Indeed, the situation isn’t limited to an abundance of firearms anymore. Each category now encompasses a wide range of distinct weaponry types.
Apart from the updates made, we’ve now introduced a new stage in our Pets system. Players can now spawn smaller creatures known as “Minor Hatchmons.” These Minor Hatchmons will later transform into more powerful entities called “Super Pets.” Each Super Pet has its distinctive abilities and design, adding a unique touch to your gaming experience.
In the development of Neon Abyss 1, the structure behind the scenes was quite challenging due to our inexperience at the time, making it tough to implement updates easily. However, for Neon Abyss 2, we’ve completely overhauled the underlying framework, a change that may go unnoticed by many players, but it significantly improves the game’s flexibility for future changes. Meanwhile, the rest of the game is expected to be more thrilling and enjoyable for you all!
How much of a role will character choice have on the overall gameplay style for a player?
Besides sporting distinct designs, every Agent character is equipped with exclusive skills and initial weapons too. This variation could significantly influence the gameplay experience, as the choice of character matters greatly.
We’ve structured our current team lineup to ensure a balanced blend of Agent characters, some easier to grasp while others demand a bit more skill and training. Furthermore, fresh Agents bring an assortment of novel weaponry into play, combining traditional weapons like swords with enchantments, and not forgetting firearms as well.
Alongside their weaponry, Agents will also begin with varying health levels, grenades, keys, or crystals. It’s important to note that this isn’t just about changing an Agent’s appearance; it’s a more significant overhaul. We highly recommend taking the time to familiarize yourself with each Agent’s unique abilities and equipment before venturing into the Abyss.
Also keep in mind that during the Early Access phase, we intend to incorporate additional Agents. Players might encounter familiar faces among them too.
What’s a simple way to describe the typical development process for Abyss companions, including how they can be advanced?
Or
In layman’s terms, could you break down the general stages of growth for Abyss companions and indicate how they can evolve?
Players can collect Hatchmon eggs scattered across the Abyss, similar to the original Neon Abyss. Just like before, there’s a possibility that an egg will hatch after fights or specific events (we prefer to keep some surprises for the players to discuss among themselves).
When a player gathers the appropriate group of Hatchmons, they’ll naturally merge and advance into a powerful Super Pet.
After hatching, Hatchmons offer fundamental aid to players, each possessing their unique style and character. However, it’s in the Super Pets that they truly excel. When a player combines specific Hatchmons, these creatures will spontaneously fuse and evolve into a Super Pet. Each Super Pet showcases distinct abilities, and some of these may already be familiar, such as Chirpie who wakes up any unconscious Hatchmons, or Boxie who turns ordinary chests into special ones.
As an enthusiast, I’ve discovered that Eggs and Hatchmons in the Abyss can amp up my weapons and even arrive equipped with their own! This means there are numerous avenues for gathering and utilizing these helpful companions throughout this mysterious realm.
How big of a difference will the Faith system make when it comes to moment-to-moment gameplay?
The Faith system represents a significant update and transformation of the earlier Wisdom versus Violence system that gamers may recall from the initial Neon Abyss. This new system is designed to offer immediate effects on gameplay, as each Faith demands distinct actions from players, which ultimately determine the unveiling of the corresponding temple.
As a dedicated fan, I find myself pondering over the possibility that the gameplay might encourage us to prioritize gathering Hatchmon eggs, or perhaps even venture beyond our usual paths to gamble or spend coins to meet certain requirements. While it’s not compulsory, this Faith aspect could serve as an engaging challenge, potentially pushing us to explore new strategies and reap powerful new rewards, possibly venturing outside our comfort zones.
What are some of the minigames that can be played in co-op in Neon Abyss 2?
In Neon Abyss 2, you’ll find numerous mini-games designed for both single and multiplayer experiences. These range from volleyball competitions to piano playing, among others. To ensure a balanced gaming experience regardless of the number of players, the difficulty level has been adjusted accordingly – for instance, in the volleyball challenge, more balls might be required to keep in play. We’re eager to hear your feedback on these features from our Early Access participants.
What can you tell us about the variety of boss fights in the sequel?
In keeping with the cybermyth theme of our original game, we strive to maintain a sense of continuity for our new gods. This implies that while we’re introducing fresh designs, powers, and elements, they should still feel somewhat familiar, as if they could have been part of the original Abyss without raising too many eyebrows.
Each of the novel deities we’re introducing will possess unique abilities, and each will feature distinct attack styles and movement patterns that players must adapt to in order to endure. Additionally, certain gods, like Sunny, incorporate random elements within their standard attacks, similar to unpredictable blind box teddy bear enemies.
In addition, these freshly introduced deities are now infused with void energies, making boss battles more unpredictable. As players weaken bosses, they’ll receive a random boost from dark powers, which will make each encounter unique, even if you fight the same boss again. This adds an extra layer of difficulty as you adapt to the varying attack patterns.
In keeping with the original game’s cybermyth theme, we aim to maintain a strong connection to this concept for our freshly-crafted pantheon.
How does the studio handle the clarity of fight scenes, particularly when four characters, each wielding unique weapons and skills, contribute to a more complex situation?
Indeed, we’re thoroughly enjoying the excitement that comes with the disorder, and integrating this with cooperative gameplay has been a significant aspect of our design process. We’ve made several adjustments based on our playtesting sessions and early demos, all while appreciating the dedication of our remarkable beta testers who generously invested their time and effort.
Initially, we offer an option to reduce the UI elements. Specifically, at present, the quantity of Hatchmon eggs appearing behind you is adjustable. Although the total number of eggs remains within the game mechanics, removing them from the screen (except for the initial ones) helps declutter the screen significantly, and this was our first modification.
Additionally, we’ve explored ways to enhance the multiplayer aspect specifically. To achieve this, we’ve spent time ensuring a balance between maintaining the chaotic ambiance of the Abyss and providing clarity about what’s transpiring. We made sure not to diminish the sense of chaos during our adjustments.
To help lessen distractions caused by other players, we’ve made adjustments such as toning down the vividness of certain attack colors, and limiting weapon and ability effects in various areas. While every player will retain the full impact of their individual characters, all characters will maintain our high-definition visuals. Our aim is to minimize overly distracting elements.
As an enthusiast, I’m eagerly focusing on maintaining a proper equilibrium during Early Access, a crucial aspect I’m looking forward to examining together with the players.
Will there be a wider release of Neon Abyss 2 on additional platforms following its Early Access phase, similar to how the initial game expanded?
Of course! Currently, we’re concentrating on the Steam Early Access debut and will be developing a Steam-centric plan for the following months. However, it’s important to note that other platforms are indeed part of our strategy for the full release of Neon Abyss 2.
“So we’ve also taken steps to try and minimise the distractions from other players.”
In a more casual tone, here’s how I would rephrase your question: “Why do you believe that adding powerful, complementary item combinations in roguelike games improves the player’s experience instead of disrupting the game’s equilibrium?
I’m not completely convinced they won’t become overly powerful, but during Early Access, things might change and make them so. There’s a lot of randomness in the game, and we aim to create an environment where anything can happen. This means (and hopefully it doesn’t often) that luck could sway things significantly in players’ favor. However, we believe this element adds excitement as even in challenging situations like traversing the Abyss, extraordinary powers could be just a corner away.
In our plans for Neon Abyss 2, we aim to embrace the disorder, encouraging players to unleash their creativity and construct the most outrageous setups possible. Through the playtesting and beta testing we’ve conducted thus far, we’ve managed to strike a balance and continue innovating, with the goal of creating an environment where players can demonstrate both creative flair and technical prowess.
We’re aiming to engage actively with our community on Discord, Steam, and social media platforms to gather genuine feedback from players about their thoughts. By developing the game collaboratively during Early Access, we can blend our creativity with player experiences, ensuring a more balanced game as development continues.
As a dedicated gamer, I’ve often noticed the debate about overpowering combos making runs too easy. For me, there’s a thrill in discovering powerful item combinations or getting lucky with rare drops that can make a character feel ‘invincible’. It adds an extra layer of excitement and accomplishment to the gameplay experience. However, I also understand the concerns about balance and fairness for all players. Finding a middle ground where skill, strategy, and a touch of luck coalesce into a satisfying gaming journey is key.
From my perspective as a passionate fan, I fully acknowledge both sides of the argument. We’ve always strived to keep the Abyss engaging with its intricate challenges, embracing the wild, innovative content that initially captivated us in Neon Abyss. The key lies in ensuring that such features are ‘earned’ by players, not something they can easily unlock within the early stages or even immediately. This way, the thrill of discovery and the joy of progression remains intact.
We aim to foster an open dialogue with our players through platforms like Discord, Steam community, and social media, so we can genuinely understand their thoughts.
As the game advances, I believe that those who work hard and earn their way through should be rewarded as they reach more difficult stages. Bringing a late-game weapon back to the starting zone feels off-balance, no matter the game, and achieving this balance seems to lie in requiring players to strategize ahead, much like planning moves in chess.
Absolutely, there’s an element of chance involved here too. Although you might stumble upon a weapon or item in the Abyss that complements your character build perfectly, given the vast array of weapons, allies, and loot at your disposal, it’s more likely than not that luck may not always be on your side.
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2025-07-21 16:14