Welcome to Pompeii!
In this dev blog, I'm excited to share a glimpse into the narrative that shapes Pompeii: The Legacy. You'll learn about the story's starting point, the cast of characters who guide you through the early stages, and the creative process behind the character portraits featured in the game.
The story begins on a Roman ship gliding across open waters as a father, the main character, explains a great mission given to him and his family by Emperor Trajan. The family has been entrusted with the task of rebuilding Pompeii, which was destroyed in the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D.
We'll delve into the early gameplay elements, which follow the father’s guidance to his sons on managing city-building essentials. Guided by Publius Attianus, the Emperor’s advisor, players learn core mechanics through in-character dialogue that makes tutorials an immersive part of the story. Key milestones and challenges lie ahead, from constructing initial housing to facing antagonists who challenge your position, and preparing for the looming threat of natural disasters.
Guidance from Rome's Finest
In keeping with the Roman theme, I begin by introducing Emperor Trajan, the player’s first patron. Trajan, known historically as one of Rome's greatest emperors, expanded the empire to its largest territorial reach and brought prosperity and stability to Rome during his reign. His leadership and strategic acumen serve as an inspiration for the player’s journey.
Next to Trajan in this image is the fictional character, Senator Gaius Aquillius Regulus, who will later become the player’s political advisor. Regulus will guide the player through the complex landscape of Roman politics, helping navigate the inevitable challenges and decisions that come with rising through the social ranks of the empire.
In the early stages of Pompeii: The Legacy, one of the advisors guiding the player will be none other than Emperor Trajan’s wife, Pompeia Plotina. Known for her wisdom and deep commitment to philosophy and humanistic ideals, she will communicate with the player’s family through a series of letters. Through these exchanges, Pompeia Plotina offers her perspective on philosophical and ethical matters, subtly influencing the player’s decisions and providing a nuanced outlook on governance, culture, and personal growth within the empire.
The Heart of a Legacy
In Pompeii: The Legacy, family is central to the journey. The player's character begins with his loyal wife, who will be by his side as they embark on the challenge of rebuilding Pompeii. While the husband leads the city’s development, his wife brings balance, encouraging the construction of cultural and hygienic buildings that improve the quality of life for citizens. Together, they lay the foundation not just for a city, but for a family legacy that will influence generations to come.
Beyond city-building, the player’s family will play a vital role in trade and exploration across the Mediterranean. Family members will not only manage the bustling markets and trading routes that connect Pompeii to other key regions, but some will also embark on perilous expeditions. These journeys, though filled with potential for great rewards, can bring danger and strain family relationships, as the risks involved often weigh heavily on loved ones back home.
Additionally, some family members will serve alongside the Emperor in military campaigns across the empire to quell uprisings. Upon their return, these experiences will enhance the family’s social standing, bestowing them with newfound privileges and influence in the Roman hierarchy. These interactions add depth to the family’s role, blending duty and ambition as they contribute to the empire’s legacy and the prosperity of Pompeii.
Building a Dynasty: The Family Tree
The Pompeii: The Legacy family tree interface offers a unique look into the legacy of each generation. As players progress, each new generation is represented as a new chapter in the family’s lineage. In keeping with Roman traditions, the family tree also includes the option to adopt, reflecting the common practice in Rome of extending one’s legacy through adopted heirs. Through this system, players will shape not just a city, but a dynasty that embodies the spirit and resilience of a Roman family across generations.
As children grow up in Pompeii: The Legacy, they will typically marry, forming alliances with other influential families. These marriages bring with them both social and material advantages. When a designated heir marries, the player’s family may receive additional benefits and privileges, depending on the social standing and resources that the new family member contributes. This system enriches the gameplay, offering strategic opportunities to strengthen the family’s influence within Pompeii and across the empire.
In Roman tradition, the father is the head of the family. Upon his passing, the heir—typically the eldest son—assumes this role. However, the game will sometimes challenge players with situations where no male heir is available, or where the family has no direct successor. In these cases, the player must navigate intricate strategies to secure an heir, often requiring cunning and diplomatic finesse to preserve the family line and its legacy. These elements add layers of complexity and intrigue, pushing players to manage not only the city but also the delicate balance of family succession.
Bringing Characters to Life: The Art of Portrait Creation
Each character in Pompeii: The Legacy is crafted with a detailed process that begins with reference photos, often sourced from 3dsk, to achieve realistic facial expressions and authentic period features. Starting from an initial sketch and working through Photoshop, I develop each portrait with great care. For historical figures like Trajan and Hadrian, I base the designs on their preserved sculptures, ensuring a close resemblance to their iconic appearances. This approach adds depth and authenticity to the game, as every character is rooted in historical accuracy or inspired by the actors who bring them to life.
Looking Ahead: A Glimpse into the Future
As I wrap up this chapter of Pompeii: The Legacy, I’m excited to share that the next big milestone will be the reveal of the gameplay trailer. This upcoming showcase will offer a firsthand look at how the story, characters, and mechanics come together, bringing the ancient city to life. If all goes according to plan, you can expect to see the trailer before the end of the year. Thank you for following the development journey, and stay tuned—there’s much more to come!
https://store.steampowered.com/app/2632240/Pompeii_The_Legacy/