Ubidays 2008: Elika replaces sands of time as gameplay innovation in new Prince of Persia

Prince of Persia producer Ben Mates has just confirmed that there won't be any time-manipulation mechanic in the new iteration of the franchise, and that the great innovation will be replaced with new character Elika.

Mates said that Elika will be constantly with the Prince throughout the game and will assist him with every aspect of play.

"When you're fighting you do better because Elika helps you," said Mates. "Every single element of this amazing action heroes abilities are taken to the next level by [this character]."

Mates showed the two characters fighting a boss character together, with the duo performing action moves and Elika getting busy with some magic.

Mates also confirmed that the game's hero doesn't start as a prince, and that there is no link chronologically between the new game and the previous trilogy.

"He starts as a wanderer, an adventurer," said Mates, saying that this was important as it defined the character's personality.

Mates was speaking at the Ubidays 2008 press conference, which is live now.