Update: Funcom reveals name of The Longest Journey sequel

New details have been revealed on the upcoming sequel to The Longest Journey, which is being developed by Oslo-based Funcom. The project has so far gone under various working titles, but is now officially referred to as Dreamfall.

Scheduled for release in the fall of 2005, Dreamfall continues the story of The Longest Journey, and will "bring adventure gaming into a new era". Focusing on story and characters, Dreamfall features "unparalleled 3D visuals, advanced character animations, stunning audio, and innovative gameplay -- wrapped in a unique and magical ambience".

Dreamfall is set in the 23rd Century, where a young woman named Zoë Castillo accidentally uncovers a conspiracy related to dreams; a conspiracy that may herald the destruction of the twin worlds of science and magic. Confronted by mysteries that she cannot resolve on her own, she must seek assistance from the one person who might have the answers: April Ryan, the heroine of The Longest Journey.

"We're making a game that can be enjoyed equally by fans of the first

game and new players," says game director and writer Ragnar Tørnquist in a press release issued today. "In Dreamfall, we are expanding the scope of the adventure genre to include action elements that will allow us to tell an even more involving, exciting, and surprising story."

The story will be mainly linear, although there will be aspects of non-linearity. Also, the game's puzzles can be solved in several ways, and the player's choices will affect the flow of the game.

More information, images and features will be revealed at E3 in May, where Funcom will present a playable version of Dreamfall to invited members of the press. When E3 comes, you can expect a preview here on Adventure Gamers.

This week, the National Movie Fund of Norway has given Funcom 1.6 million kroner ($226000) for the development of the game. For a few more tidbits on the upcoming TLJ sequel, check out our news item from December.