Created by Maciej ‘Aureus’ Gajzlerowicz, a Polish writer and designer from independent developer Moral Anxiety Studio, Roadwarden is an interesting game of many components, mixing isometric pixel art and a branching narrative with RPG mechanics, visual novel features, and the traditional use of items and complex conversations seen in classic text adventures.
In Roadwarden you explore and subsequently change the hostile, grim realm of Viaticum (the fantasy setting for The Tavern and Tales From Windy Meadow – two games previously released by Moral Anxiety Studio). The protagonist in Roadwarden has two main goals: to find out what has happened to the previous roadwarden, and to gather as much information about this strange peninsula as they can. The player builds their character through selecting dialogue choices, making decisions and interacting with their surroundings, with various sidequests and hidden interactions making the game unique for every playthrough.
Roadwarden involves game features such as item interactions, character abilities, hit point reduction, simple survival mechanics and time restrictions. Especially noticeable is the attitude system. Whenever the player encounters new characters, they can select one of the five attitudes (friendly, playful, distanced, intimidating or vulnerable), which then impacts the following interaction, altering the mood and direction of the general conversation. Another advanced mechanic involves occasional problem solving inspired by text adventure games, in which the player uses a keyboard to write simple commands.
Everyone knows to stay away from the wilderness. Most people would never risk a lonely journey.
Roadwardens not only accept this struggle, they embrace it. They deliver messages, assist merchants, burn human corpses and, if possible, get rid of beasts and highwaymen.
They live on the road, die young or retire early.
It’s a dangerous job, but a respectable one. And it pays well.
Features:
- Explore and change the world. Travel through a detailed fantasy setting filled with secrets, challenges and uniquely harsh lore.
- Have immersive conversations. To gain support of dozens of NPCs, you need to earn their trust during complex dialogues and sidequests.
- Create your own character through role-playing and decisions. Shape your background, abilities, beliefs and personality.
- Unveil the local mysteries. Investigate, use your wit and make connections to understand the true nature of this realm.
- Overcome your weaknesses. The wilderness is full of dangers and you can trust nobody. Find your path to success against all odds.
Currently still in an early stage of development, a FREE demo of the game is available for Windows/Linux from the developer’s website or itch.io
For the moment, Roadwarden includes some placeholders and there are design decisions yet to be made, such as the possible inclusion of additional sound effects. The finished version is expected to be completed during the first half of 2020, and is planned to provide 10+ hours of dark fantasy adventuring.