The hush-hush game that has captured my curiosity the most is undoubtedly Le Zoo from Mother Games. This unique blend of puzzles, PvP, and co-op elements has been shrouded in mystery until now, but a newly released teaser trailer gives us our first substantial glimpse into what this ambitious title has in store for us later this year.
Labeled as an emergent RPG, the teaser showcases a fascinating mix of animation and live-action. The animation is led by Disney alumnus Giacomo Mora, while the direction comes from the talented duo of Dina Amer and Kelsey Falter, both of whom are part of the team behind Mother Games' flagship project.
One of the most intriguing yet controversial features of Le Zoo is the incorporation of AI-generated NPCs. The game will feature custom NPCs created using AI, alongside five large language models (LLMs) inspired by "Buddhist wisdom" and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. This combination promises to deliver a uniquely bizarre and engaging experience.
I find myself torn about Le Zoo. The use of AI and the self-described "trippy" nature of the game give me pause. However, the talent behind the project is undeniably impressive. The team includes sound and production designer Brian Alcazar, formerly of Rockstar, and the award-winning artist Christof Stanits. With such a powerhouse of creativity and inspiration, it's surprising that Le Zoo aims to be such a personalized experience for each player.
While I'm cautiously optimistic, only time will tell how Le Zoo turns out upon its release. The concept certainly piques my interest, but my enthusiasm is tempered by a healthy dose of skepticism.
