Forget hip, modern and futuristic. The creators of Dead Space took their cues from the architecture of yore. That’s right, rather than poring over sci-fi blockbusters, classic novels in the genre or using more futuristic décor as a base on which to create environments and even costumes, the team looked to the past for inspiration.

In a recent interview with TheGameReviews to be posted at a later date, Dead Space Producer Rich Briggs divulged some strikingly bizarre information about what influenced the art direction of the game: “[...]we looked to more historic architecture and were influenced by elements from Gothic designs. The Ishimura and even Isaac’s suit draw from aesthetics found in cathedrals, such as ribbing and flying buttresses.”

Elaborating further on his statement, Briggs explained that this was a move meant to individualize the game; an innovative path that few designers have chosen to take. Droves of science-fiction releases already incorporate more sharp-edged, angular and overly sterilized motifs within their worlds, character models and overall look and feel. Since Dead Space has always been about changing up how you think about eliminating enemies, expecting the unexpected and pushing forward in the genre, this would be an obvious step to take. Who would think to take a look back at architecture most have only experienced in textbooks for art classes? This is quite the interesting spin on what could have been just another dull, lifeless and forgettable sci-fi jaunt through your typical haunted/abandoned/(insert tragedy here) spaceship.

Even though the designs are meant to stand out and give a futuristic update to the look and feel of historical architecture, the team “made sure it was functional since the Ishimura is a ship people needed to live and work on,” according to Briggs.

So it’s true, then, that history repeats itself, and in this case, it’s coming back with a vengeance. Expect more coverage of Dead Space as the release date draws nearer and nearer.