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Learn: Profession Game Designer from scratch to PRO
Learn moreInXile Entertainment faced many challenges along the way, including unsuccessful projects and mobile games. With the advent of the Kickstarter boom, the studio was able to return to its beloved RPG genre with the release of Wasteland 2. However, even this game and subsequent RPG projects remained noticeably underfunded, which affected the quality and volume of content.
After Microsoft acquired inXile, the developers were able to significantly expand their capabilities and begin work on a large-scale RPG. At the Xbox Games Showcase 2023, the team presented Clockwork Revolution, which was immediately dubbed "the new BioShock" by players. This project promises engaging gameplay and a deep story, making it one of the most anticipated releases in the RPG genre.
In this article, Skillbox Media's Gamedev editorial team provides comprehensive information about the game, including its features, mechanics, and latest updates. We've compiled the latest data to help you understand key aspects and gain insight into the project. Read on to learn more about this game and its impact on the industry.
Clockwork Revolution Story and World
The game takes place in the city of Avalon, whose appearance and aesthetics draw inspiration from the late Victorian era. This fictional metropolis captivates with a unique atmosphere, where vehicles, soda machines, and even robots are powered by steam. Avalon offers players an immersive experience where technology and Victorian style intertwine to create an unforgettable gaming environment.
The technological revolution has made it possible to create mechanical servants capable of fulfilling any desires of wealthy owners. Among wealthy city dwellers, people with prosthetics functioning thanks to complex clockwork mechanisms are increasingly common. These innovations not only make everyday life easier but also open new horizons in technology and medicine. Mechanical servants and prosthetics based on clockwork mechanisms are becoming symbols of progress, demonstrating how engineering solutions can improve quality of life and expand human capabilities.
Avalon is ruled by Lady Ironwood and her closest advisers. Technological progress and the apparent well-being of the city are a consequence of their manipulation of time. Lady Ironwood possesses the unique ability to travel into the past, allowing her to alter historical events and influence the fate of Avalon at her own discretion. At the same time, the interests of ordinary people often remain outside its attention, which gives rise to many problems in society.
According to the announcement trailer, a conspiracy against tyrants is growing in the city. Clockwork Revolution's protagonist will gain the ability to use the Chronometer, allowing him to travel between the past and the present. As the story unfolds, he will come to understand the consequences of his actions, experiencing the butterfly effect of his decisions. The game promises a deep storyline and engaging gameplay where every decision matters.
Clockwork Revolution Gameplay
Clockwork Revolution is a first-person action RPG that offers a unique gaming experience. The game's key feature is the Chronometer, which allows players to travel to the distant past and rewind events for a short time. It can be used to restore destroyed objects, opening up new strategic possibilities in gameplay. The player also has a diverse selection of firearms in their arsenal, including revolvers, lever-action rifles, and modified Gatling guns. Clockwork Revolution's weapons are inspired by real weapons from the late 19th century and feature a steampunk aesthetic, creating a unique gaming experience. This game attracts the attention of both action RPG fans and those who appreciate original plots and mechanics.
After the announcement of the project, many assumed that the game would be focused on action elements rather than role-playing interactions. However, Brian Fargo quickly dispelled these rumors. He confirmed that Clockwork Revolution will be a full-fledged action RPG. Players will be able to create their own character and achieve their goals not only through combat but also through a diverse dialogue system. This mechanic will immerse them in the game world and create a unique gaming experience, combining combat with role-playing elements.
Fargo confirmed that the game will feature numerous elements of dark humor. We hope that the developers, when creating humorous moments, will take cues from the successful experience of Arcanum, rather than from Wasteland 3, whose jokes sometimes caused complaints. Furthermore, the studio head announced that Clockwork Revolution will feature "musical numbers." The player will likely be able to visit a cabaret or similar establishment during their adventures in Avalon.
Time travel will have a significant impact on gameplay and Clockwork Revolution story. The decisions the player makes will have both immediate consequences and delayed effects that will manifest later in the game. Chad Moore, development director, describes Clockwork Revolution as a unique RPG inspired by the classic games Arcanum and Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines, which became landmark projects of the Troika Games studio.
Moore made significant contributions to both projects, in particular, he was responsible for creating the narrative component of the scary level with the Ocean House hotel in Vampire: The Masquerade — Bloodlines.
Clockwork Revolution development details
In addition to Chad Moore, the new game features another experienced developer - Jason Anderson, co-founder of Troika Games and known for his work on the Fallout series. Currently, legendary developers Tim Cain, Leonard Boyarsky and Jason Anderson work under Microsoft management. At the same time, Tim Cain and Leonard Boyarsky are focused on creating projects at Obsidian. Thus, the new game brings together the talents of gaming industry veterans, which inspires hopes for a high level of quality and unusual gameplay mechanics.
Interestingly, the development of Arcanum 2 was originally planned with a first-person view. Perhaps, the company inXile, working on Clockwork Revolution, borrows some ideas that were intended for the sequel of this cult game. This may indicate that elements of the original Arcanum continue to inspire modern developers and influence the creation of new projects in the role-playing game genre.
The Arcanum 2 project, initially called Journey to the Center of Arcanum, was conceived using the Source engine, which was later used for Vampire: The Masquerade — Bloodlines. The developers planned to create an immersive game world, inspired by such famous games as Half-Life 2, Deus Ex, and the Thief series. The aborted sequel would have focused on the dynamic combat system and environmental interactivity. Players would have the option to play the game aggressively, but could also use stealth and camouflage to achieve their goals.
Journey to the Center of Arcanum offers players a unique adventure across a vast geography. Explore a vast underground world inhabited by a forgotten tribe of dwarves and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Serpent's Spine Archipelago. Here, volcanic islands, mysterious cannibal settlements, and a port city where several influential families vie for control of the locals await. Each journey is filled with discovery, danger, and intrigue, making the game exciting and memorable.
The story begins in Tarant, the most technologically advanced city in Arcanum. Here, the dwarven aristocracy strolls the avenues, occasionally losing their composure as steam horses rush past. Although Journey to the Center of Arcanum never saw the light of day, Clockwork Revolution will offer a glimpse into the wonders of steam, immersing us in this wondrous world. Tarant sets the tone for the unique technologies and innovative ideas that make Arcanum a place full of adventure and opportunity.
In early 2024, it was announced that Shapeshifter Games had joined the game's development team. This new team consists of former Volition employees, known for their work on Saints Row. Shapeshifter Games will work under the direction of Brian Fargo, striving to bring the project to completion and, hopefully, a speedy release. Shapeshifter Games positions itself as a "support studio," intending to help other game teams while avoiding independent projects.
Clockwork Revolution Release Date
The game's release date has not yet been determined. In the announcement trailer, the developers noted that the release will take place "at the right time." The game will be available on Xbox Series X/S, as well as on PC and via Game Pass. The anticipated game promises to offer engaging gameplay and high-quality graphics, making it appealing to a wide audience. Stay tuned for important announcements and release details.
Game designer profession from scratch to PRO
A game designer creates the structure of a game. They think through the idea, rules, gameplay, and decide what emotions the plot will evoke in players. You'll master game design principles from scratch and learn how to work with popular engines like Unity and Unreal Engine. You'll learn how to retain player interest and monetize your games. And we will help you start a career in the gaming industry.
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