Making a video game on any platform takes a lot of work, and even if a game is finished, it’s still not immune to delays (see: Duke Nukem Forever, Los Angeles Noire and Diablo III.) A group of Italian programmers had to wait 22 years to finally see the release of their fantastic hack ‘n slasher. Who for Game Boy Advance (GBA), a console whose last units went into production in 2009. It is likely the most delayed game in history, according to an article in The Guardian.
Who Development of the console began in 2002. A small group of Italian programmers formed AgeOfGames, the first company in the country to begin production of a GBA title. Two years later, they had a finished product, but the game never made it to stores because its publisher felt that releasing it was too big a financial risk.
Meanwhile, AgeOfGames turned to making educational games to stay in business, and the GBA’s life cycle came and went. Then, the rise of retro gaming gave the Italian studio a chance: a new publisher specializing in classic console games, incube8 Games, took an interest. Now Who It is available in cartridge format and can be played on the original hardware.
In general, retro gaming is big business these days, and it’s more accessible than ever. There are all kinds of new consoles designed to play hundreds of thousands of different titles from yesteryear. The iPhone finally started allowing apps that emulate all kinds of classic consoles in its online stores earlier this year. There’s even been a renaissance of new games that use old graphics. You’re never far from the games and experiences that defined your childhood.
Who It is available to purchase on the incube8 website for the (slightly shocking) price of $60.