This is a role-playing adventure game released in October 2019, available on PC (Microsoft Windows) and Mac. Set in the fictional, post-revolutionary city of Revachol, players step into the shoes of a detective grappling with profound amnesia. The core of the experience revolves around investigating a complex murder case, but the true depth lies in the intricate dialogue and skill-based choices that shape the narrative and the protagonist's fractured psyche.

Instead of traditional combat, the game emphasizes internal monologues and the protagonist's own skills, which manifest as distinct voices within his mind. These internal voices offer advice, argue with each other, and influence how the player approaches situations, from interrogating suspects to navigating the city's socio-political landscape. The narrative delves into themes of politics, philosophy, and the very nature of identity, offering a unique and thought-provoking experience.

Story and Setting

The game unfolds in the dilapidated yet strangely captivating city of Revachol, a place scarred by past conflicts and simmering with unresolved tensions. Players awaken as an amnesiac detective, tasked with solving a murder that has plunged the district into further disarray. The environment is richly detailed, reflecting a world with a complex history and a palpable atmosphere of melancholy and decay. Every interaction, every piece of lore uncovered, contributes to a deeper understanding of both the crime and the city itself.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay loop is driven by exploration, dialogue, and an innovative skill system. Instead of physical attributes, players develop internal skills such as Logic, Empathy, Rhetoric, and Volition, each represented by a distinct personality trait that actively participates in conversations and decision-making. These skills offer unique perspectives and can unlock new dialogue options or approaches to challenges. Success or failure in skill checks often leads to unexpected outcomes, making each playthrough distinct.

What Makes This Game Unique?

The game distinguishes itself through its radical departure from conventional RPG mechanics. It prioritizes narrative and character development over combat, focusing on the internal struggles of the protagonist and the consequences of his choices. The skill system, where one's own thoughts and abilities become characters in their own right, is a central pillar of this uniqueness. This approach fosters a deeply personal and introspective gameplay experience, where the player's ability to reason, empathize, and persuade is paramount.

How Does the Skill System Work?

The 24 distinct skills are divided into four categories: Intellect, Psyche, Physique, and Motorics. Each skill has a rating that can be increased through gameplay. During conversations or internal thought processes, these skills can interject, offering insights, warnings, or even temptations. For example, the 'Inland Empire' skill might offer surreal or intuitive advice, while 'Logic' provides rational analysis. The interplay between these internal voices shapes the player's perception of the world and their approach to solving the central mystery.

What is the Primary Gameplay Loop?

The primary gameplay loop involves exploring the environment, interacting with a diverse cast of characters through extensive dialogue trees, and making choices that have tangible consequences. Players gather clues, piece together information, and manage the protagonist's mental and physical well-being. The game encourages experimentation with different approaches to dialogue and problem-solving, often leading to emergent narrative moments.

What is the Premise of the Story?

The game's premise centers on a detective who awakens with total amnesia in a hotel room, tasked with solving a murder that has occurred outside. As the player guides the detective, they not only investigate the crime but also attempt to reconstruct the detective's own lost memories and identity. The narrative is deeply intertwined with the socio-political context of Revachol, exploring themes of ideology, failure, and the search for meaning in a broken world.