Tonda Ros on UFO 50: A 700-Hour Gaming Experience

Introduction to Tonda Ros and UFO 50

Game developer Tonda Ros has amassed nearly 700 hours playing UFO 50, declaring it his favorite game of the last two decades. Ros, known for creating the acclaimed Blue Prince, has a rich history with gaming that stretches back to his childhood when he first encountered PC games at the age of seven. His extensive experience in both playing and developing games provides a unique perspective on UFO 50, a retro-inspired collection of games.

The Origins of Tonda Ros's Gaming Journey

Tonda Ros was first captivated by gaming with the action-adventure title Beast. His fascination grew when his family acquired a 386 PC, leading him to play games like Tank Wars, SimCity, and Star Control. With a career trajectory that saw him establish himself as a cinematographer and visual artist, Ros began developing his own game, Blue Prince, in 2016. Drawing inspiration from various sources, including the mystical atmosphere of Myst and the intricate designs of board games, Ros dedicated nearly a decade to crafting Blue Prince, which released to positive acclaim in 2025.

In-Depth Look at UFO 50

UFO 50, developed by the creators of Spelunky, is a collection of 50 unique games designed to emulate the experience of a fictional 1980s console known as the LX. Each game has substantial depth and variety across different genres, going beyond simple mini-games. Ros expressed his initial skepticism towards retro-driven games but was quickly drawn in once he appreciated the innovative designs and gameplay mechanics.

Gameplay Experience and Favorite Titles

Ros noted that his many hours with UFO 50 include extensive gameplay of its many titles. Among these, he highlighted Minnie and Max as a standout, featuring a young girl in imaginative adventures in a closet with her talking dog. The game's concept left him inspired, leading to extensive mapping and other creative projects related to it. Ros has also dabbled in speedrunning some titles within UFO 50, particularly the game Planet Zoldath, which adds to his recorded hours.

Design Elements and Game Recommendations

In discussing the design elements of UFO 50, Ros emphasized how the collection showcases unique gameplay experiences that encourage exploration. He recommended that players approach the games chronologically, similar to how a child would experience a new game each week, allowing them to invest time and interest in each title fully. This methodology has contributed positively to his own enjoyment of the games, helping him cultivate a strong appreciation for their depth and creativity.

Other Current Interests in Gaming

When not engrossed in UFO 50, Ros enjoys other titles, including Cairn and Big Walk. The former captivated him with its intuitive control scheme that mimics real-life rock climbing. Meanwhile, Big Walk offered a memorable multiplayer experience with a unique social proximity chat feature that engaged players throughout its lengthy sessions.

Connections to Game Development

Reflecting on Big Walk, Ros drew parallels to his own creative process with Blue Prince. He highlights how both games emerged in tandem with evolving design trends in the gaming industry. While Ros has a critical eye for design, he expressed genuine admiration for Big Walk's unexpected and impactful ending—an experience that left him inspired rather than critical as a designer.

Nostalgic Favorites and Legacy Games

Among the oldest games in Ros's library, Myst holds a special place. First encountering it as a child, he has maintained a fondness for its atmospheric experience throughout his life. Myst has been a constant presence on his PC, serving as a nostalgic retreat where he can indulge in calm, immersive gameplay.

Personal Gaming Habits and Community Impact

Ros believes the landscape of first-person puzzle games is ripe for innovation, pointing out that while many game genres are oversaturated, there remains a strong demand for fresh puzzle experiences. He cites successes like Outer Wilds and Obra Dinn and hopes to encourage more developers to experiment with the genre.

Key Takeaways

• Tonda Ros has played UFO 50 for almost 700 hours, marking it as his favorite game in two decades.
• The game consists of 50 complete titles, each capturing the essence of 1980s retro gaming.
• His development of Blue Prince was influenced by puzzle games and experiences from his childhood.
• Ros emphasizes the importance of community and innovation in the first-person puzzle genre.
• Games like Minnie and Max show the potential for storytelling and creativity in indie games.

Conclusion

Tonda Ros's extensive experience with UFO 50 highlights the richness of the gaming landscape, bridging the gap between nostalgia and innovative design. His passion for gaming is evident not just in the hours logged but also in his commitment to developing unique experiences like Blue Prince. As Ros continues to explore new projects, his insights may inspire both gamers and developers alike to appreciate and explore the broader world of gaming.