Shine bright, Arelians!
As we get closer to the release of the new demo on August 18th, we wanted to highlight a few of the game’s key mechanics with some new screenshots. Each of these systems plays a vital part in the successful management of your city, and each is linked to the others in a web of competing priorities and complimentary benefits. Choose wisely, Archon!
The Vertical City
The majestic trunks of the gigantic Ardentis Trees offer sanctuary from the Shroud, sheltering and sustaining the Aurelian people hundreds of feet above the forest floor. Although vital to survival, this does present some significant challenges for civil engineering. Settlement founders will need to consider space and placement, ensuring adequate ladders and ziplines to each building, as well as leaving space for any expansions you might want to build in the future.
The Shroud
This shifting, malevolent shroud is a blight on the landscape of Nelaai. To be lost in the Shroud is to lose your mind, your sanity shredded by powers unknown; or to have your flesh torn and mangled by the stalking horrors which lurk within it. The Shroud covers the surface of the world, flowing more thickly and aggressively at night. Flame and light have always kept it at bay, but reports are surfacing of flameguards being overrun, we may need something stronger...
Tower Defence
The power at the heart of the Ardentis Trees can be harnessed to power a devastating defensive arsenal. Utilise the solar energy stored within its sap to power these fearsome weapons systems, forming networks which combine technology with the mystical. These remarkable structures will require extensive research and large amounts of materials, but they will prove indispensable in the fight against the Shroud.
Gathering Resources
The heart of all of our endeavours is the will of the worker, their rough hands our most important machinery. Without their labour in the fields, gathering metal and harvesting lumber, we would not eat, research or build. Even the lowliest citizen of Elaran plays their part – assigning them to the right tasks will be key to your success, so make sure you’re actively managing shift patterns and worker welfare.
We hope you’re looking forward to the demo’s release as much as we are! Remember, this is just a taste of what you can expect to see in the demo on the 18th, so make sure you tag that wishlist button while you’re here.
~DarkSwitch Team
