Harry Krueger, the visionary director behind the breakout hit Returnal, has stepped into a new chapter of his gaming career. After leaving Housemarque, the Finnish developer known for its arcade-style action games, Krueger has founded Cosmic Division, promising a fresh take on gameplay experiences. In a recent interview, he shared his thoughts on his influences, his gaming journey, and what players can expect from his new studio. Krueger’s path to PC gaming was anything but conventional. He wasn’t a lifelong gamer, but rather a late bloomer who found his passion in the frenetic action of Quake 3: Arena. “I went from zero to hero, basically,” Krueger reflected, recalling how gathering friends for LAN parties ignited his love for gaming. His introduction to classic titles like Tiberian Sun and Red Alert marked the beginning of a journey that would lead to him becoming a key player in the gaming industry. After making his mark on early Housemarque titles like Outland and Resogun, Krueger’s true breakthrough came with Nex Machina and Returnal. The latter received widespread acclaim, scoring four BAFTAs in 2022, including the coveted Best Game award. This recognition not only solidified Krueger’s reputation but also set the stage for his next venture. At Cosmic Division, Krueger aims to carry the arcade action DNA that defined his previous work into new realms of gameplay. “We want to be a lean and mean studio that makes evocative gameplay-first experiences,” he stated, hinting at an ambitious project that promises to resonate with both old and new gamers alike. When asked about his gaming habits, Krueger remains a dedicated player himself. Recently, he delved into Resident Evil: Requiem, expressing high praise for its blend of horror and action. “I think it's a phenomenal mixture of action and horror, the power fantasy and the vulnerability,” he explained. As a self-proclaimed completionist, Krueger enjoys exploring every nook and cranny of games, which speaks to his deep appreciation for well-crafted environments and narratives. His admiration for Resident Evil goes beyond the surface. Krueger highlighted the intricate design of the horror elements, stating, “The gunplay and the action, all the set pieces are incredibly satisfying.” It’s clear that his own game design philosophy has been influenced by the meticulous craftsmanship found in titles like Resident Evil, which balances tension and exploration. As he gears up to unveil Cosmic Division’s debut title, Krueger’s excitement is palpable. He promises a project that not only honors his roots but also surprises players with innovative gameplay. “I think players will also be pleasantly surprised,” he teased, leaving fans eager for what’s to come. Krueger’s transition from Housemarque to Cosmic Division symbolizes a broader trend in the gaming industry: the rise of indie studios led by seasoned veterans. As more developers take the leap to create their own studios, the gaming landscape is poised for creativity and experimentation. Ultimately, Harry Krueger’s journey is a testament to the power of gaming to transform lives and careers. From his humble beginnings to leading the charge in cutting-edge game design, he continues to inspire both players and developers alike. As fans await his next move, one thing is for certain: the gaming world can expect something extraordinary from Cosmic Division. Whether you’re a fan of his previous works or just discovering the magic of gaming, Krueger’s story serves as a reminder that in the world of video games, the journey is just as thrilling as the destination. Keep an eye on Cosmic Division, where the next era of arcade-inspired gaming is just around the corner.