Paradox Interactive has announced a groundbreaking entry in its portfolio of grand strategy games, unveiling Afterworld, a title set apart by its entirely original setting in over a decade. Unlike its predecessors which are rooted in historical contexts, this new game is situated in a post-apocalyptic North America.
An Imaginative Setting
Afterworld transports players to a future where the remnants of civilization are scattered across hazardous terrains and the ruins of a once-thriving world. Players start with a small band of survivors and are tasked with expanding their influence into a sprawling empire. This journey involves scavenging essential resources like food, water, and shelter while gradually restoring the knowledge and methods of civilization as they explore a dynamically generated landscape.
Gameplay and Dynamics
The game is described by Paradox as being rich in narrative, giving players the option to begin with various origin stories for their survivor group. Whether it’s emerging from a failed nuclear bunker or being a band of zealots in search of divine intervention, these starting points influence the unfolding story. The players will develop new skills, recover lost technologies, establish trade routes, engage in diplomacy, and wage battles when necessary. The game’s development is shaped by the survivors’ interactions and the artefacts they uncover.
Complex Choices and Challenges
Afterworld introduces complex strategic and moral dilemmas that have long-term impacts. Decisions, such as resource management, coping with emerging religions, and dealing with the “mutated and augmented,” present ethical challenges. Players might even come across immortal figures from before the apocalypse, each holding their own beliefs about who should govern the new world. The threat of a second downfall looms ever-present, hinging on the choices players make.
Release and Features
The game will offer both cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes upon its release on Steam. As of now, Paradox has yet to reveal the specific release date.
Reporting based on coverage first published by eurogamer.net.