We had a chance to catch up with Ghost Recon Future Soldier’s Roman Campos Oriola, a developer for the hot new game that hits stores on May 22. Not only is he an innovative game builder, he’s also a sneaker fanatic. He shed some new light on both Ghost Recon and his eclectic taste in kicks.
What makes Ghost Recon Future Soldier unique in the Ghost Recon series? What are some of the innovations?
Ghost Recon Future Soldier is the biggest Tom Clancy game we’ve ever made. The entire campaign is playable not only in single player, but with up to three other friends in co-op. Creating this online co-op experience throughout the campaign was a big focus for us from the onset of development. We increased the level of AI intelligence, so that now you can mark a target for your AI teammate to shoot, and he automatically gets into the best position for the shot. Before, you would have to micro-manage his every movement just to get him in the right position for the shot. And, of course, there’s the Gunsmith feature in the game that allows you to completely customize your weapon down to its inner parts.
What's your favorite GRFS feature?
Without a doubt, my favorite feature is Gunsmith. Even after working on this project for more than two years, it still continues to amaze me.
Where do you draw inspiration for a game like GRFS?
We have so many creative people around us, we just have to listen to them. We also spent a lot of time working with former spec ops operators and military consultants. Think about Seal Team 6—those are the caliber of guys that we talked to. Authenticity is key when you’re making a Tom Clancy product.
You're a sneakerhead—what are some recent purchases? What are some all-time faves?
Let’s see, last month I bought a pair of Le Coq Sportif Orlean highs, a pair of black adidas adiRise, and a pair of Common Projects for the evening. My two all-time favorite pairs are an original pair of Jordan 6 that I bought with my first paycheck. That was in 1998; ever since I saw them as a child, I always dreamed of getting a pair. I also love my original Reebok Pumps that I have from when I was a kid. I’m keeping them for my son to have when he gets older
For more on Ghost Recon Future Soldier, and for the chance to win great prizes, including your own copy of the game, go to complex.com/teamghost.
