One of the much touted features of the forthcoming Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare is the game's exoskeleton and the array of new moves that the suit makes possible and Sledgehammer says they've know for two and a half years that the suit could redefine the shooter franchise.
Speaking to CVG, studio co-founder Michael Condrey said:
"San Francisco was the second level we developed during pre-production in early 2012 and the first one with our exo-boost mechanic. The addition of verticality to combat became an instant hit at the studio, and the anchor of the exoskeleton player movement innovations. That was the moment – the exact moment – we fully realised the new gameplay potential, more than two and a half years ago. And it was just the beginning."
Despite the presence of exoskeletons, hover tanks, and bullets which can be printed within the weapon chamber, Condrey adds:
"This is not a science-fiction experience. We're laser-focused on delivering a Call Of Duty experience, and by that I mean grounded in a believable, realistic near-future experience."
All of the technologies featured in the game are being prototyped right now and fellow co-founder Glen Schofiel adds:
"But [the] future was definitely one of the things we were talking about very early. We all agreed on 45-50 years in the future. Private military companies [also] came very early, and the exoskeleton was even an idea that came up on the press trip before Modern Warfare 3 shipped."
In the interview, the duo also touched on what they call the game's relatable story and lead character, Mitchell, who works for Atlas Corporation which is headed by the charismatic Jonathan Irons (Kevin Spacey) and has turned against the US.
Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare is set for release on PC, PS3, PS4, Wii U, Xbox 360, and Xbox One on November 4th.
