Obbe Vermeij, a key figure behind some of the early success of Grand Theft Auto, is stepping into new territory with his upcoming project, which stands in stark contrast to the series' hallmark of chaos and violence. With over 17 years dedicated to the development of various Grand Theft Auto titles, Vermeij is now venturing into the serene world of game design.
After spending a considerable period sharing insights into his experiences from iconic GTA titles like GTA 3, Vice City, and San Andreas, he has introduced his latest creation, Plentiful. This game centers around the tranquil task of gathering rainwater by rearranging rocks to cultivate plant life and nourish a tribe. Vermeij characterizes Plentiful as a calming game focused on fostering the flourishing of nature. The concept is refreshingly straightforward, boasting a subtle artistic approach along with a minimalistic presence on its Steam page.
This direction sharply contrasts with the elaborate narratives and expansive environments that defined the Grand Theft Auto franchise, where monetization was a pivotal part of the design philosophy. Vermeij seems to be taking his time with Plentiful, stating it will launch "when it's finished." Despite the potential for a long wait, I find the concept quite engaging; the act of influencing water bodies evokes nostalgic memories from earlier years.
I look forward to seeing what Vermeij develops, and I am equally curious about his reflections on his past work. He has shared intriguing insights regarding his tenure at Rockstar, leading up to his thoughts on GTA 6, which he predicts won’t stray greatly from the formula established by GTA 5. After departing from Rockstar post-GTA 4, Vermeij felt that the series was becoming excessively dark and somber.