TFT'S PROFILE

better version can be found here http://meridiandance.org/
The Machine Factory has manufactured yet another fine interview! Hello friends of Meridian Dance, I was able to get a few words with Teo, the creator of Sunset Over Imdahl. Not only is it a full game, but it's filled with original beautiful art! It's one of the few games you can find out in the world wide internet that utilizes hand drawn art. Teo is also known for being the graphical mastermind behind Wilfred the Hero. Grab some of your finest tea, and perhaps sit down on a nice comfy couch, as we take a look into creative mind of Teo Mathlein!

TFT: Can you remember what got you interested in RM? Sunset Over Imdahl is delightfully creative. How did you decide on hand drawing everything?

Teo: I think one reason was just realizing that I *could* make a game without tile-based graphics in Rm2k and I wanted to be the first to do it. The plot for Sunset Over Imdahl was in many ways invented to fit a graphical version I already had. For example; from a graphical perspective I figured it would be more efficient to re-use each scene in four seasonal variations, and that's why I made up a story involving time travel.

TFT: Are you surprised that Sunset Over Imdahl and Wilfred the Hero is still talked about in the RM scene?

Teo: Yeah, kind of! Indie games with hand drawn graphics aren't rare anymore. What still could make Sunset Over Imdahl stand out is that it's finished. Whatever the reason, I think it's awesome it isn't forgotten

TFT: Would you ever consider doing another game?

Teo: I'm making one right now! I'm currently studying computer game development at Stockholm university and am working on a puzzle platformer with two of my mates from class.

TFT: Do you still browse the RM communities? Or was it just a stepping stone for you before moving on to bigger and better projects?

Teo: I still browse indie games, but I rarely come across rm games. I think the majority of rm users are pretty young, I was maybe 16 when I started working on Sunset Over Imdahl. It feels like most older, more serious game developers move on to other platforms... which is a shame, because the simplicity of rm programs gives you the chance to tell a story in a way that you wouldn't have time for with a program where you have to script everything yourself.

TFT: Sunset Over Imdahl or Wilfred the Hero? Which one did you enjoy making more?

Teo: Wilfred the Hero, no contest. It's always more fun to work on team.

TFT: Do you still keep in contact with Brandon Abley?

Teo: Not on a regular basis, but we're still good. I made an album cover for him like a month ago!

TFT: A lot of people still think you guys are working on some secret project that will go commercial. Can you clear these rumors up?

Teo: I wish we were. A couple years ago Brandon approached me with an idea of turning Wilfred the Hero commercial, and start paying me for graphics. I never really managed to get focused so I kind of blew it off. I really regret that now.

TFT: Has Sunset or Wilfred opened any doors for you in the art world?

Teo: You'd think so, but no. People outside the community aren't very impressed with rm games.

TFT: Do you ever talk about your games outside of the communities?

Teo: Very rarely. I kind of like it that way though. It's nice to have built a little world of your own, outside of your social sphere.

TFT: How long have you been drawing?

Teo: Since forever, I guess. I remember that I started to get serious with it sometime in early high school, but I've always been doodling in one way or another.

TFT: What is your favorite art tool to use?

Teo: My Wacom Intuos A4. I pretty recently bought a Wacom Cintiq- which is a pen-tablet with a built in screen, but I haven't decided if it's actually useful or if it only looks cool.

TFT: Can we expect anything from you in the future?

Teo: Like I said, I'm currently working on my game with two guys from my school. Anyone who is interested can check out

http://lament.crobasoft.com/

Enter your email and we'll let you know when the game is out.

TFT: Well, it's been really fun, thank you for taking the time to talk with me!

Teo: My pleasure!

There you have it. Be sure if haven't already to check out Teo's delightful and inspiring games Wilfred the Hero and Sunset Over Imdahl. Be sure to check his site as well, Maridianites!