In a recent announcement from publisher Digital Tribe and indie studio Innervoid Interactive, the sandbox RPG Dustgrave has been confirmed for a playable demo at the upcoming Steam Next Fest, running from February 5-12, 2024. The game, set to be released on Steam later this year, has also unveiled two new dev diaries, providing insights into the dynamic world and stealth mechanics.
Dustgrave presents a world that evolves based on the player's actions and the influence of various factions. Settlements and locations are not static, but dynamic entities that can be conquered, decimated, rebuilt or even overrun with zombies. The player's actions will significantly impact the world, transforming a ruined settlement into a thriving city, or vice versa. You can view the game's trailer here:
The game also introduces a stealth system that allows players to sneak out of challenging situations. NPCs in Dustgrave will remember your actions, adding a layer of strategy when deciding to act in the shadows or confront situations head-on. NPCs will notice players through a cone of view and by hearing sounds, but they also have a memory. So, selling them goods you've just stolen from them might not be the best idea. In addition, players have the option to engage in combat while in stealth mode. For more details on the stealth system, you can read the dev diary on Steam.
Dustgrave promises players total freedom in a true sandbox RPG experience, featuring cell-shaded watercolor art and a deep turn-based combat system. The game offers an advanced character editor and an open-ended world where your deeds and decisions significantly shape the world around you. The game's advanced record & relationship system tracks every event in the world and NPC reactions are based on their morality and current allegiances.