Myst producer talks about PC-to-DS adaptation, possible sequel

We just got through a lengthy conference call with the producer for the upcoming PC-to-DS title Myst, Manny Granillo. He had quite a bit of information for us regarding the game and its extra pack-in, The Rime Age. So, be sure to strap in and head past the break for some of that delicious knowledge. But first, head into our gallery below for some fresh screens.



Myst for the DS has been a project taking place over the last 2 or so years. As Manny and his team worked on their project, attempting to cram the lengthy PC version of Myst into a tiny DS game cart, him and his team strove to make sure they stayed true to the original PC title.

So, is this the same game? Yes, he assured us, explaining that all of the original video and puzzles from the PC title have made the transition to the DS. He wanted us to know that this is Myst, 100%. Well, except for a few tweaks the team made to the gameplay.

Since the original title had a cursor that would change depending on the level of interaction for the highlighted item, they had to think of something new for the DS and touch-screen (a point that might make the game harder for new-comers). The stylus is the reticule now. But, they did add a handy toolbar to the bottom of the touch screen that lends you a bit of a helping hand.

Through the toolbar, you'll have access to a magnifying glass feature, a camera that will allow you to take and save a single photograph (for those stuck bloggers or as a fun DS Daily), and a small notepad. The top screen helps too, displaying a small mini-map of your immediate surrounding. The catch, however, is that it doesn't list where you are at on the map.

What about the original game's soundtrack? Many would find it to be nothing short of unacceptable should the musical atmosphere not be maintained on the handheld, right? Well, Manny thinks so, as he assures us all music has been remixed for the DS directly from the original raw files. They also created brand new music for the bundled in Rime Age.

And just what is this Rime Age, you ask? Well, it was a bonus artic-themed age found only at the end of realMyst. However, it was originally planned to be in the first Myst game, and here Manny and crew decided to include it. As if we needed more reason to want the game ...

So, when can we look forward to Myst? "Mid-March," quotes Granillo. We're going to have to wait a little longer before getting our hands on it. But, what of sequels or other PC adventure titles on the DS? Well, Granillo is currently in talks to bring Riven to the DS. And, he admits his team his working on two other titles right now, adaptations of games for the DS, what he described as "influential" titles and a "natural fit for the DS."