Gaming Insights from Harry Krueger: A Peek into the Mind Behind Returnal

Meet Harry Krueger, the creative mind that brought us the thrilling experience of Returnal. This dude got into PC gaming a bit late, but let’s just say he made up for lost time! His first encounter with the gaming world was all thanks to the fast-paced action of Quake 3: Arena. He recalls, “I went from never touching a PC to setting up LAN parties in my house with friends in Greece, battling it out in Quake and Tiberian Sun.” Talk about a gaming glow-up!

Krueger started off as a programmer at Housemarque, the Finnish studio behind hits like Outland and Resogun. He later stepped into the spotlight as Game Director for Nex Machina in 2017 and then for the critically acclaimed Returnal in 2021, which even snagged four BAFTAs! After parting ways with Housemarque, he’s currently busy building his own studio, Cosmic Division, where he’s focused on creating gameplay-first experiences.

But enough about the past; let’s dive into what he’s been playing lately. “I just wrapped up Resident Evil: Requiem,” he shares. As a die-hard Resident Evil fan, he had high expectations, and it seems the game didn’t disappoint. He describes it as a brilliant blend of action and horror, stating, “The set pieces are thrilling, and the exploration is pure joy.” Being a completionist at heart, Krueger loves scouring every corner for secrets and treasures.

He’s already completed the game once but is eager to dive back in for another round. “Once the credits rolled, I just knew I had to experience it again. It’s a game that sticks with you!”

Before Resident Evil, he indulged in the nostalgia of playing Return to Monkey Island. Krueger praised the charming characters and clever puzzles, although he felt it was a tad easier than its predecessors. “Monkey Island nailed its humor, something that’s tough to achieve in any media,” he adds with a chuckle.

Krueger’s gaming library also includes the classic Deus Ex, which he considers one of the best games ever made. “It perfectly combines exploration and meaningful choices. I always reinstall it when I get a new PC; it’s a sentimental favorite.” He loves to play stealthily, ensuring he explores every nook and cranny while engaging in every side quest.

When it comes to his gaming hours, Tetris Effect tops the charts with over 200 hours logged. “I’ve been a Tetris fan since my Game Boy days,” he reminisces. The game’s simplicity paired with its intricate design captivates him, making it a staple for unwind time.

And there’s one game he’ll never uninstall: Ikaruga. “It’s a masterpiece in gameplay and design. Even if I’m not playing it all the time, having it installed feels like having an old friend nearby,” he says fondly.

As for his desktop setup, Krueger keeps it relatively tidy. He likes to stay organized for better workflow while dabbling with other hobbies like music. “I have my project files sorted, but I do have a few temp folders that have been there for ages!”

So there you have it—a glimpse into the gaming habits and thoughts of Harry Krueger, a true visionary in the gaming industry. It’s always fascinating to see how passion for gaming fuels creativity!