Techland’s Dying Light: The Beast Reflects a Decade of Game Development

In an exclusive interview, Tymon Smektała, the franchise director at Techland, discussed the evolution of the Dying Light series and the upcoming expansion titled The Beast, set to be released on August 22, 2025. This new installment is not merely an addition to the existing game but rather a culmination of the studio's ten years of experience in developing the franchise. According to Smektała, The Beast represents a significant return to the core elements that made the original Dying Light a success, while also incorporating new mechanics and features to enhance gameplay.

"We see The Beast as an exclamation mark at the end of the ten-year history of the franchise," Smektała stated. Drawing on feedback from the community, he acknowledged that Dying Light 2 diverged too far from the original's survival horror roots, opting for a more action-oriented approach that did not resonate with long-time fans. "What we heard from our most hardcore community was that maybe we took the series too far in a direction they didn’t want," he explained.

The Beast aims to blend the best aspects of both games while introducing innovative features, such as a dynamic weather system that influences gameplay. The new mechanics, including the ability for protagonist Kyle Crane to transform into the titular Beast, provide players with a unique experience reminiscent of classic gaming elements, even drawing inspiration from games like Pac-Man, according to Smektała.

Historically, the Dying Light franchise has garnered a dedicated fanbase since its initial release in January 2015. The first game was praised for its unique parkour mechanics and immersive world, which set a high bar for its sequel. However, Dying Light 2, released in February 2022, received mixed reviews due to its shift in gameplay style, which some fans viewed as a departure from the series' identity.

Smektała reflected on this transition, acknowledging that the team faced challenges with the development of Dying Light 2, particularly with their in-house C-Engine, which was still evolving during production. "It’s like writing a book while coding the word processor that allows you to write the book," he said, emphasizing the complexities involved in game development. This experience has equipped Techland with the tools and insights to create what they believe will be their best game yet.

The Beast not only showcases new gameplay mechanics but also aims to address criticisms directed at Dying Light 2. For instance, the original game's nighttime atmosphere, known for its intense horror elements, was reportedly diluted in the sequel. Smektała stated, "In retrospect, the tone and balance of the original game were stronger, which is why Techland wants to marry the best aspects of both games for The Beast."

Moreover, the expansion hints at future developments for the franchise, with Smektała indicating that The Beast will pave the way for subsequent installments. "When you complete the game, there will be a small piece of what players can expect in the future," he added, suggesting that Techland is committed to continuing the Dying Light narrative beyond this release.

With a commitment to providing five years of content for Dying Light 2 alongside the upcoming expansion, Techland's strategy reflects their dedication to maintaining and expanding their player community. As the franchise evolves, the studio appears to be learning from past experiences, aiming to strike a balance between innovation and the core elements that fans cherish. As Dying Light: The Beast approaches its release, it promises to deliver a rich gaming experience that encapsulates a decade of development and fan engagement.