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The game Time To Wake Up, developed by Eye Blink Twice, is an atmospheric psychological thriller that places the player trapped in a dream, guided by a mysterious voice. Without a set release date, Watermelo spoke with the studio to understand more about the concept and mechanics that make this experience unique.

Thomas Boone, founder of Eye Blink Twice, shared what inspired the creation of the game. “When I was still studying, I wanted to create out-of-the-box experiences. I was influenced by games like The Stanley Parable and Hellblade: Senua's Sacrifice, which stood out from the traditional RPGs and shooters I was familiar with,” he stated. For Time To Wake Up, the idea of exploring dreams was central from the start, seeking to capture the dreamlike essence through a unique aesthetic and sound, along with a deep story. “A voice accompanying the player was something that immediately clicked in my mind,” Thomas added.

The gameplay mechanics also play a crucial role in creating an immersive and suspenseful experience. Thomas explained that the team felt the need to go beyond a simple walking simulator. “We realized that the dream concept was never far off, and little by little, we developed the idea of treating the game’s camera as an eye. That’s how the blinking mechanic was born,” he explained. Blinking allows the player not only to manipulate the environment but also to reveal important story elements, keeping the experience fresh and surprising.

During the development of Time To Wake Up, the team faced significant challenges, especially in deciding the game’s direction. “Sometimes, we didn’t know exactly how to bring all the elements together. We then decided to create an intriguing dream experience, balancing mechanics and storytelling to avoid the game becoming a walk through a museum or an incessant puzzle challenge,” Thomas commented.

With the release still uncertain, Eye Blink Twice’s goals are clear. “We are seeking funding to ensure the launch, and we need the support of those interested in the game. Wishlists and shares are essential so we can move forward,” Thomas stated. The team hopes that Time To Wake Up will be complete at launch and that, in the future, they can continue creating new experiences with the same dedication.