Old School Gamer Magazine chats with Santa’s Journey creator Karl Dunkelman, who details the game and his hopes for it moving forward.
Old School Gamer Magazine: For those that don’t know about the game, tell us about it!
Karl Dunkelman: Santa’s Journey is the retro-inspired video game app where you get to be Santa himself in a dungeon style puzzle game. You have 60 seconds to complete each of the 25 stages. You get to explore Santa’s world, deliver presents to children and reach Mrs. Claus to win the game.
Old School Gamer Magazine: What games are in its DNA?
Dunkelman: I’ve been told the game reminds people of Dig Dug or The Legend of Zelda. My goal was really to have 8-bit gameplay with 16-bit style graphics. The game is simple enough for any age and I think the sprites evoke the art style of the retro video game era.
Old School Gamer Magazine: It’s been out for a few years now- how has it changed?
Dunkelman: Other than fixes for bugs and general improvements, the game also comes with an iOS sticker pack so you can add game emojis to your Messages on an iPhone or iPad. In addition to the game, I also published an eBook and Amazon physical copy of the book that follows the Night Before Christmas story with the artwork from the game. There’s plenty to explore at www.santa.app
Old School Gamer Magazine: Who do you think will enjoy it the most?
Dunkelman: People that grew up with Nintendo or Super Nintendo that like Christmas or Santa are bound to have a good time with it. There’s a retro nostalgia that will bring holiday cheer. However, I’ve noticed 5-10 year-olds really like it as well. I’ve even heard grandparents like the gameplay. It’s really for all ages.
Old School Gamer Magazine: Any plans for a console release?
Dunkelman: That’s my dream. I would love to see a physical or console release. Any developers or software publishers, please reach out to me at karl@santa.app if you are interested in partnering.
Old School Gamer Magazine: What’s have you learned about yourself through this whole process?
Dunkelman: I used to be a digital producer in the advertising industry. This was my first project on my own vs with a team. I pushed myself with this independent release by taking on the creative and development process. I even learned how to compose music. The game is raw, and while there is room for improvement, I am happy with how it came out. I made the game free so anyone can enjoy it.
Old School Gamer Magazine: What’s next?
Dunkelman: The game came to me almost as if it was a dream. Everything flowed into place. It was a lot of work but I was driven to make it happen. What’s next? A physical release or remake would be a joy to work on.
Old School Gamer Magazine: Anything else you’d like to add?
Dunkelman: Pat has been very supportive of me and the game. Creating an app on your own is one thing but finding support is another. Check out his work! His books are great! Video game history needs to be preserved and his efforts are making that possible.
