The Golden Era of FPS Games: Dusk Developer Discusses the Influence of the Classics

David Szymanski, one of the key drivers of the modern retro-shooter renaissance and creator of the hit Dusk, shared his reflections on the evolution of the FPS (First-Person Shooter) genre. In an interview with PC Gamer, the developer looked back at his roots, favorite classics, and the reasons why certain titles remain timeless.

According to Szymanski, while the 90s can be defined as a "silver era," the true peak of the genre was in the mid-2000s. He defines this period as the "golden era," as games were no longer just clones of Doom, but were not yet constrained by the formula of Call of Duty 4. As examples of innovative design and unique feel, he points to titles such as Half-Life 2, Halo, Far Cry, Serious Sam, and Doom 3.

The developer, also known for the horror project Iron Lung, emphasizes the importance of simplicity and authenticity. He even mentions smaller Russian titles from the past as examples of a specific feel that modern, technically demanding games often lose.

In his list of the most influential games, Szymanski places Doom as almost objectively the best FPS ever created, due to its historical significance and its ability to remain relevant today. He compares the design chaos of Doom to elements of Resident Evil – the combination of weirdness, fear, and action is what makes a game timeless.

Regarding the future, Szymanski admits that he is constantly looking for new challenges. Following the success of retro-shooters, his next project, B.U.G.B.I.T.E, will be an isometric title, representing a significant shift in his creative approach.