Smite 2 Unveiled: A Multi-Generational Leap and the Bold Decision to Forge a New Era
In a groundbreaking move, Hi-Rez Studios has recently unveiled Smite 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the popular free-to-play third-person multiplayer online battle arena game that first launched in 2014. The announcement has sparked curiosity among the gaming community, especially with the revelation that the game will not be porting over the original Smite's extensive collection of 1,600 skins to the new iteration.
Developed on Unreal Engine 5, Smite 2 represents a substantial leap forward from its predecessor, which was originally designed on Unreal Engine 3 over a decade ago. The decision to transition to a new engine reflects Hi-Rez Studios' commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in the Smite universe.
During the Smite 2 keynote, Hi-Rez staff shed light on the challenging decision not to transfer existing content directly from Smite 1 to Smite 2. The move is described as a "multi-generational leap," emphasising the significant technological advancements that Unreal Engine 5 offers. The developers assert that porting each of the 1,600 skins from Smite 1 to Smite 2 would require an astonishing 246 person-years of work due to the meticulous effort needed to ensure each skin meets the upgraded standards of the new engine.
Art director Ben Knapp highlighted the commitment to delivering a superior gaming experience by stating, "Currently, because we want to make sure all the content that goes into Smite 2 is strictly better, it takes about two months of work to get one skin from Smite to Smite 2. And that's if we just port it with effects without making other meaningful improvements."
Art producer Sherri Harney further explained, "To just port every skin to Smite 2, it would take about 246 person-years of work, and we couldn’t do that and make Smite 2 as amazing as we knew it could be if we started fresh." This difficult decision was made early in development, with the belief that players would prefer a better version of Smite over a direct transfer of existing content.
As a gesture of goodwill, Hi-Rez Studios has introduced the Legacy Gems system, rewarding Smite 1 players with virtual currency based on their in-game expenditures. This currency can be utilised to unlock content in Smite 2, providing a bridge between the two gaming experiences.
For those who prefer to stick with the original Smite, the developers have reassured that Smite 2 won't replace Smite 1. The original game will continue to operate as a standalone entity, receiving regular updates for the foreseeable future.
Smite 2 is set to launch on PC, Xbox Series X/S, and PlayStation 5, boasting full crossplay functionality. The alpha playtest is scheduled for spring 2024, promising a new era of immersive gameplay and exciting adventures for both new and veteran Smite players.