Serious Sam Preview

AT: I've heard you guys are working on the improved AI code for the single player? Can you give us more details on what's to be improved? Maybe give us some examples of the more interesting AI routines?

DH: Yes, we are right now in the middle of AI code. Basically, it shouldn't mess with current playability. New approach will result in some 'smart' path-finding functions that will avoid dummy behavior of enemies in some circumstances. And they will be able to track you behind obstacles and charge at you once they locate you again. New AI will help us to make some more suffering for you :)

AT: You must've come up with some nifty weapons since the test. C'mon, share with us! Will there be a weapon similar to BFG or the Redeemer?

DH: You're absolutely right, you must have a master weapon. The weapon that we included is a very unconventional one, could ask some questions, but I guarantee you that you'll like it. I can't wait when players get their hands on it...

AT: An article was published recently that featured a brief tutorial on how to model a RL using the Serious Tools. What are some of the ways you plan to support the Serious Mod Community?

DH: We will provide Serious Engine SDK. SDK will contain two main editing applications, Serious Editor and Serious Modeler, some help files and examples of how to code MODs. Tools are already received with delight by our beta testers. They are powerful but very easy to use. But, I can't easily explain all the advantages of SE tools. You have to try them out, to know what I am talking about. I can't see any competition here. We want to see SE tools conquering the world :)

Is it true that you don't have a single crate in the game? What about the small 'charge in hundreds AI' critters. You know, like the crab-like thingies in Half Life (OK, so they didn't charge in hundreds, but still.)? Or the spiders in KISS?

DH: If I am right in understanding what a crate means, we don't have any crates in the game, my friends, no crates. Regarding crabs and spiders, I'll take the 5th, but will add something more. I say that you don't know what frustration is until you finish Serious Sam. And I am talking about fun frustration, one that calls for some mad laughing.

AT: What is the estimated release date for the game?

DH: Game is supposed to be shipped Q1 of next year. We really hope that you will enjoy it! Only then, our efforts will be rewarded.