IGN interviews Artificial Mind and Movement’s Dave Richard and Philippe Gaude, game designer and director, respectively, of The Golden Compass videogame for Nintendo DS.

IGN: How is the DS version going to differ from the other console versions? What sorts of DS specific features are included?

A2M: This version of The Golden Compass has been designed specifically for the DS, both in terms of gameplay and user interface. We wanted to have a gameplay that really fits the DS, and also leverage the possibilities of the dual screen and the touch screen.
For example, you can interact with the Alethiometer as if you were Lyra, touching it and moving its needles on the touch screen. The multiplayer Alethiometer challenge is unique to the DS version, as well as the fact that you can play all three main characters: Lyra, Pan or Iorek, all with their specific abilities.

IGN: Which team is developing the DS version of the game? What have they worked on in the past?

A2M: The Golden Compass DS has been created by Montreal-based developer A2M (Artificial Mind and Movement). The team on this project included a couple of talented newcomers and a wild bunch of seasoned GBA and DS veterans having worked undercover on major movie and game franchises.

IGN: Are there any gameplay elements the developer is bringing to The Golden Compass from their previous titles?

A2M: The platforming elements of the game obviously follow the rules of the genre, but The Golden Compass universe is so rich that we have been able to create a whole new gameplay dynamic: the player is switching between the three main characters - Lyra, Pan and Iorek - and their specific abilities to complete the game.

IGN: The story is a pretty crucial part to this type of game, how is it being told in-game?

A2M: The story is so rich that it allowed us to use every aspect of the game to convey it. First of all, each and every mission and objective makes sense regarding the overall story. Next, the player is actually involved in the story through interactive cut-scenes where they must carefully choose their answers and use the Alethiometer to reveal the truth - depending upon his/her level of success, failure, simple success or extra bonuses can be the outcome. Finally, various cut-scenes, both in-game and in between missions, complete the storytelling.

Continue interview and view exclusive NDS screenshots at IGN.

The Golden Compass videogame is scheduled for a December 4 release.

For additional information: Visit Spy Fly’s Game Page and www.goldencompassgame.com