New Game Recreates Fly Dubai Hijacking Drama

A new game titled "Don't Fly Dubai" allows players to experience the dramatic events of the near-hijacking of a Fly Dubai flight, from the initial attack on the pilot to the heroic rescue of 174 passengers. Developed by Assaf Granit and released on the platform itch.io, the game is structured into four main stages, mirroring the real-life incident.

Granit, inspired by his childhood experiences with 1980s computer games, particularly Sierra adventure quests, decided to create the game after the "unthinkable event" on the flight. He aimed to make a short, engaging experience, describing it as a "short and amusing quest" of 10-15 minutes. The development utilized advanced AI technologies, with Claude assisting in coding and technical guidance, and ChatGPT generating graphics. Granit based the dialogue and dynamics on classic quest games and studied YouTube videos to capture the era's spirit.

The game begins with a seemingly normal flight, but players are soon thrust into the unfolding drama. They must race to open the cockpit door, engage in a tense struggle with the attacker, stabilize the aircraft after a dive, manage a landing in Saudi Arabia, and ultimately ensure a safe return to Israel. Players can choose to play the full game, start from specific stages, or simply watch a full simulation.

Gameplay involves selecting actions like 'Walk,' 'Look,' 'Hand,' and 'Talk,' and choosing the correct character to perform them. Successful actions earn points, with the goal of completing all four stages. Hints and skip options are available for players who need assistance or wish to progress faster. The game incorporates numerous in-jokes and small details, such as a passenger upset about not getting chocolate, and references to the heroes who saved the flight, including a nod to a viral tweet about surviving the ordeal.