Dev Blog The Third: Our Hub Town, The Polis
Above: An Alpha build of The Polis
Hello and welcome to our third developer blog, where we are showcasing our central hub town, The Polis.
Here the player has a central area to return to between venturing from realm to realm, and it´s relative normality provides a change of pace from the abstract and surreal planes. That´s not to say the Polis isn't quirky and unnerving in it's own right, it is, and it's inhabited by a varied cast of characters, optional puzzles, and opportunities to discover hidden locations and items.
The Polis will be a constantly evolving area, not a static environment, and will grow and change with the story of the game. Characters will come and go, live or die, or simply ignore you based on your actions. In it's final form the town will be organic and dynamic, with characters who you could never see in the game depending on your decisions and others reactions. Morally dubious acts could please some, while alienating others, while doing the right thing could demonstrate weakness and telegraph to some you are potential prey.
This is all monitored through our influence system, how you choose to act not only affects individuals, but the towns as a whole, environment included, and their disposition has a broader effect on the wider plot, and your progression through it. As always though, theirs no direct fail states, so whether your liked or disliked, it will only present you new challenges, not block your path.
Every building you can see can be entered, and each serves a purpose in the game, theirs no pointless rooms here, and we aim for all of them to have both visible, and hidden content. From cult like churches, to humble monastic homes theirs an abundance of variety here.
The design of the town mixes Renaissance art work, iron work and glass, with ancient Aztec style block work, as well as 20th century architectural elements. We feel this amalgamation of time and style gives the Polis a great feel. We're really pleased with the visual design and game play application of the Polis, and want to know what you guys think, so don't hesitate to let us know! Stay tuned for upcoming updates on animation, and our new realms which will soon be revealed.
As always, thanks for reading :)
