Sierra reevaluates Jonny Drama concept

Sierra Studios has informed GameSpot that the company is currently reevaluating its upcoming Xbox-exclusive game Jonny Drama. In particular, following the game's official unveiling at E3 last month, Sierra is taking a closer look at its gameplay in order to create a system that appeals to a broader audience and matches the game's cel-shaded graphics and general visual style. The original gameplay concept of Jonny Drama involved elements of action, stealth, puzzle solving, and exploration as players assumed the role of a 1960s-style secret agent. As part of the reevaluation of the game's concept, several new gameplay styles are currently being considered, so Sierra is unable to discuss specifics regarding the planned changes at this time.

"After the overwhelming positive response Jonny Drama received at E3, Sierra realized the game's potential to be great," the company said in a statement. "The development team has created innovative characters, great artwork, and an appeal to a broad audience. The success of this game will also rely on the gameplay. So, we've decided to take a step back, take a closer look at the concept, and redirect the game so its potential for success is unlimited."

Jonny Drama was originally slated for release in late 2001. However, the game's release has now been pushed back indefinitely as the company attempts to integrate new gameplay elements into the game. Currently, there are no specific plans to tweak the game's visual style or replace any of the characters, but those changes could happen as a result of the gameplay tweaks, according to Sierra. GameSpot will have more on Jonny Drama, including information regarding the specific gameplay changes, in the coming weeks.