Q: Before we dive into the game, what is the story behind the name 'One Way Ticket Studio'?

CEO Song Kwang-ho: The team was in a position where the previous studio project had failed and a new start was necessary. There was much deliberation, but we settled on a 'no-return' mindset—like someone who has burned all bridges—believing that once we set off on this path, we must commit to the very end without looking back.

Q: Why decide on a zombie-themed extraction shooter?

CEO Song Kwang-ho: I have always been a massive fan of extraction shooters. My passion grew from playing Tarkov and delving into medieval fantasy extraction titles. I believe the genre still holds limitless potential. While the market is saturated with modern tactical shooters like Tarkov and medieval fantasies, I wanted to expand the scope by injecting a zombie theme into the mix.

Q: What is the reasoning behind the heavy focus on melee combat?

CEO Song Kwang-ho: Melee combat carries a visceral, instinctive thrill that comes from closing the gap and testing an opponent. Furthermore, the world of Midnight Walkers is set decades after a zombie apocalypse, where survivors scavenge for resources to craft makeshift weapons. It felt natural that melee combat, where you have to judge distance and timing, would fit this setting perfectly.

While firearms do exist in the game, they are extremely limited. Only specific classes can wield them, and they are restricted to bolt-action rifles or single-action revolvers that require manual reloading after every shot. Even shotguns require a manual cycle, meaning if you miss your shot, you are at a massive disadvantage as the enemy closes in. On top of that, ammunition is incredibly scarce and expensive.

Q: What differentiates this from existing titles in the extraction shooter genre?

CEO Song Kwang-ho: First, the floor-by-floor lockdown system—where specific floors of the building close off as time passes—creates constant tension and forces player encounters in ways other games don't. Second, the extraction process itself is dynamic. The need to locate and activate an extraction point, only to have other players hear the noise and hunt you down, creates a cat-and-mouse dynamic that leads to truly intense and desperate gameplay.

We are also introducing a persistent growth path through the 'Locker Room.' It acts as a social hub where you can unlock new facilities to aid your gameplay or invite friends to join you and start a session immediately. We are also deepening the crafting system so that even those who prefer to avoid combat can accumulate wealth through scavenging and production.

Q: What improvements were made following the Steam tests?

CEO Song Kwang-ho: We overhauled the server architecture based on issues discovered in previous tests. The July test confirmed that the systems are running smoothly. We also observed whether the intended gameplay loop was working as planned. A key design goal was to create an environment where streamers can naturally generate fun moments without trying too hard. The game itself is serious, yet it often leads to chaotic and humorous scenarios—like running into other players while looting in elevators or stairwells, followed by a frantic chase.

Q: Is Gamescom participation driven by a desire to see local player reactions firsthand?

CEO Song Kwang-ho: Exactly. Last year, we were here to announce that we were developing this game, but this time, with the launch approaching, we want to build awareness and watch real players in action. We have been transparent with our community from day one, but watching gameplay online is different from observing them in person. We are currently monitoring players at the Gamescom booth to see how they handle the mechanics.

Q: What do you think Korean games need to improve when entering Western markets?

CEO Song Kwang-ho: First is localization. It goes beyond simple translation; you must account for cultural nuances. Second is community engagement. You must constantly listen to what the users want. Think of a famous restaurant; people flock to it because word gets around that the food is good, the staff is kind, and the chef listens to feedback.

I view game development just like the restaurant industry. If you open a shop specializing in Kimchi Jjigae, you must first master the basics to satisfy customers who know the dish inside and out. Only then can you innovate—perhaps by adding a specific type of fermented fish sauce or using tomatoes to create a unique twist. I feel that many developers overlook those foundational steps.

I have spent over 1,000 hours in Tarkov, and well over 10,000 hours across various other extraction titles. Starting from a place where I truly understand what makes the genre fun allowed me to direct my team and set a clear roadmap effectively.

Q: Any final words for the players?

CEO Song Kwang-ho: As I said, I want to develop this game with the mindset of a chef. If a customer says it’s too salty, it’s too salty; if they say it’s sweet, it’s sweet. I will keep striving to make this a 'top-tier' experience by adjusting to feedback. We will accommodate as much as we can within our capabilities, and for the things we cannot, we will be transparent about the reasons why.