The action-platformer Kien finally arrives on Game Boy Advance - after an astonishing 22-year journey filled with setbacks and obstacles.
The road to this release has been truly a challenging one. Originally scheduled for release in 2002, Kien encountered numerous hurdles that delayed its development and eventual release. Developer Fabio Belsanti described the project as a series of obstacles, including failed publishing deals and significant financial risks.
Overcoming Two Decades Of Challenges
In a blog post, Belsanti recounted the harsh realities faced by his small Italian team. At the game's inception, the main challenge was the high cost of producing Game Boy Advance cartridges. These costs not only put a strain on financial projections, but also led to the collapse of promising publisher deals, leaving Kien in a state of uncertainty for years.The turning point came when the development team refused to give in to circumstance. They made the bold decision to go it alone. It was a risky move, but it was driven by a determination to see their vision become a reality - over two decades after the initial release date.
At its core, Kien offers players a 2D action-packed experience, allowing them to choose between a warrior or a princess on a journey through 23 carefully crafted levels. Set on the planet Malkut, where chaos reigns after the disappearance of the seven ruling masters and the fall of the mystical warriors, the game unfolds as a saga of hope and destiny.