Eric Chahi planned on creating a science fiction game that was similar to Karateka and Impossible Mission. Because he wanted to create a dramatic, cinematic experience, the game featured no HUD or dialog, only giving the player information about the game world through gameplay and cutscenes.
However, with no idea of the technical limitations he would face while building out the story, he focused more on creating ambiance, rhythmic pacing, and narrative tension in the game.