A ManEater Sequel Wouldn’t Have to be a Retread of the First Game

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A ManEater Sequel Wouldn't Have to be a Retread of the First Game

As a die-hard fan of the unexpected hit game, Maneater, I cannot help but be excited about the possibility of a sequel. The experience of controlling a nameless bull shark in the satirical waters of Port Clovis was an exhilarating journey that delivered on its promise of being a shark simulator like no other. But as I ponder over the potential for Maneater 2, I believe the game could take things to the next level by changing its protagonist to an alligator.

One surprise sensation of 2020, “Maneater,” offers an unanticipated shark experience that everyone was craving without knowing it. In this game, players assume the role of an anonymous bull shark, feeding and growing stronger by devouring various creatures and self-proclaimed Captain Quint wannabes in the waters surrounding the comical blend of several Floridian coastal towns, named Port Clovis.

As a devoted fan, I’d describe my experience with “Maneater” as surprisingly straightforward, given its shark-centric title. Yet, this simplicity is what makes “Maneater” shine the brightest. The gameplay mechanics can be likened to following a clear path with the word “Eat” boldly displayed. Despite its apparent linearity, it’s challenging to criticize a game that so effectively delivers on its shark-themed premise. However, after the initial success of the first game, I’m intrigued yet apprehensive about how a “Maneater 2” could maintain excitement and innovation. Perhaps the key lies in revisiting one of the earliest formidable enemies from the original game to inject freshness into the sequel.

Maneater 2 Should Change its Protagonist to an Alligator

An Alligator Player Character is the Next Logical Step for Maneater 2

alligators, like sharks, are renowned aquatic predators, posing a significant danger in the early stages of “Maneater’s” original game. Instead of creating a follow-up featuring another shark, it would be intriguing to build upon the foundation laid by the first game and develop a title centered around an alligator. The blueprint includes devouring adversaries to expand to colossal dimensions, using a potent tail lash for assaults, and transforming into a terrifying sci-fi beast. These elements would seamlessly fit within a game dedicated to an alligator.

Changing the mechanics of the alligator game from the original shark experience wouldn’t be technically challenging. In fact, it could enhance the player experience. For instance, in the first game, players mimicked a shark’s thrashing by swiftly moving the joystick left and right to consume prey. Alligators are infamous for their powerful death rolls to finish off their victims. Therefore, Tripwire Interactive can easily modify this control scheme by asking players to make circular motions with the joystick instead.

Title one contained numerous missions requiring players to leave the water and attack humans on land with their shark character. Since sharks naturally live in water, these “Maneater” missions featured an unnatural and amusing sight of the shark awkwardly flopping around on dry land and consuming people. However, this humor quickly fades after experiencing it multiple times throughout the game. In contrast, “Maneater 2” introduces an alligator protagonist, allowing for more realistic and smoother transitions between water and land environments. Although alligators are slower and less dangerous outside their natural habitat, they can still pose a threat and move around effectively in these areas.

Alligators Have Endless Potential for Mutations and New Settings

When it comes to new mutations for an alligator character, the possibilities are endless. You might initially picture a fearsome creature with jagged teeth and a tail resembling a thagomizer, but subtler mutations can be just as effective. For instance, bones could strengthen, resulting in reinforced scales that increase damage resistance. Another possibility is the resurrection of the shadow mutation, now manifesting as a bleeding-themed damage-over-time effect. With a rich history of alligator-based sci-fi and horror stories at our disposal, the team has ample inspiration to draw upon.

In the initial game, the story played a subtle role with impressive results. Presenting it as an in-game documentary helped steer clear of humanizing the shark. For the next installment of Maneater, there’s a strong argument for altering the setting. Rather than Port Clovis, which was evidently a caricature of cities like Tampa and Miami, the developers at Tripwire should opt for a fictionalized New Orleans backdrop instead. This change would allow an alligator to feel more at home within the game. The landscape could include bayous, rivers bordering urban areas, and, naturally, a sewer system for the perfect hideout.

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2024-07-22 13:33