New Arc Line is a steampunk themed RPG game developed by Dreamate Games and will be published by Fulqrum Publishing. From 26th November the game will be available for early access.
The game promises a world where magic and technology will make a holy matrimony. The premise of the game is quite interesting. Metropolises and grimy underworlds coexist together where you have to find the darker reality of the world.
“Take a stand in the eternal conflict between Arcane Magic and Steampunk Revolution and tip the uneasy balance between sorcery, elves, dwarves and mysterious monsters”
A World of Intrigue and Choice
The game starts off with the classic tale of the protagonist (aka you) arriving in a bustling metropolis with a darker reality. The metropolis is under the influence of corruption and inequality. You have to take the biggest responsibility to find the balance again.
“But you will soon discover that the city’s beauty runs only skin-deep and all you find is rot beneath the golden facade.”
You will be tasked with navigating the complex world and making choices that will eventually shape your character’s destiny. The world building of New Arc Line is very impressive with a rich history and diverse set of characters.
Character Customization
The game offers a robust character customization system. You can create unique individuals to match your preferences and styles. You have the full freedom to tailor your character according to your own liking.
“Create your own character as a Human or Elf, choose your gender, background and appearance.”
Also keep in mind whatever character you choose has their own prejudices and town folks will treat you differently based on your background.
Combat Mechanism
The combat of the game is a turn-based combat system. That is one of the main highlights of the game. The game blends tactical depth with strategic planning. You need to carefully consider your moves and take enemies’ weaknesses in account. Use terrain and party composition to the fullest to outsmart your enemies.
“Fight head-on and brute-force your way through encounters or observe and analyze each situation and come up with cunning strategies to conquer even seemingly overwhelming odds.”
Moreover, there are plenty of skills, spells and crafting recipes for you to explore around the world. Get your hands on some of the most useful spells and consumables to give yourself a competitive advantage while fighting enemies.
Gathering your Party
You can meet and recruit a diverse cast of characters to fight alongside you. Learn their stories and unique skills to utilize them on the battlefield. You will face demons together or you can also use them for your own benefit and discard them when you like.
It seems like the game may also have a romance plot as one of the steam description says
“Who knows, maybe you will even find your true love!”
Progression System
The progression system is also quite standard for RPG games like this. You will gain experience points by defeating certain enemies and completing questions. These experience points can be then used to level up your characters and learn new skills.
Visuals and Sound Design
Visually the game is a mixed bag. The character designs are impressive but the environment might seem too generic sometimes. The art style is a blend of steampunk and fantasy which is the running theme of the game. Personally, I think it would’ve been better if the developers used the lighting effect more effectively. It would really enhance the visuals.
Apart from these, I think the soundtrack perfectly captures the game’s eerie dark atmosphere and at the same time the bustling city life.
Conclusion
If you are into turn based RPG gaming then New Arc Line is a decent game to keep an eye out for. The game has a promising start which offers a rich world, interesting characters and engaging combat.
Of course, it will be an early access which means you will come across many bugs. However, it is completely normal to just give it some time for the developers to roll out all the patches and bug fixes.
