Dragon’s Dogma 2 Director Talks Travel: Keep It Entertaining, Not Just a Shortcut

In a recent chat with IGN, Hideaki Itsuno shared a refreshing take on game travel. He suggested that when players resort to fast travel options, it might signal a lack of enjoyment in the game's core experience. Itsuno stressed the game developers' duty to make regular travel engaging, steering players away from always seeking quick shortcuts.

"Hey, give it a shot," he encouraged. "Travel boring? Nah, that's just a sign your game needs a boost. Making travel fun is the key.

"That's why we strategically place surprises for players to stumble upon, or craft enemy encounters that keep things spicy every time. We even throw players into unpredictable situations, where they're not sure if what's ten steps ahead is safe or a perilous adventure."

In Dragon’s Dogma 2, there are indeed two ways to fast travel, but they come with their limitations. Players can zap to Port Crystals scattered across the realm, but it'll cost them precious Ferrystone items.

Then, there's the option of Oxcarts for a quick ride along set routes. However, these carts are prime targets for enemy ambushes. Itsuno painted a vivid picture of players cruising along on an oxcart, only to encounter goblin blockades, forcing them into an unexpected skirmish.

"Imagine this," Itsuno mused, "you're on an oxcart, cruising through the lands. Suddenly, goblins! No choice but to hop off and get your hands dirty.

"And just when you're in the thick of it, a Griffin swoops down, obliterating the cart in one swoop. Now, you're left cursing its name as you trudge the rest of the way on foot."

Set to hit the shelves on March 22, Dragon’s Dogma 2 will be unleashed on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. Get ready for an adventure that makes every step count!