Dante's Ring

Dante's Ring is the second, after the highly acclaimed The Invincible, project of the Starward Industries studio. In contrast to The Invincible, which was based on the motifs of Stanislaw Lem's novel, we are dealing with a fully original production by the Polish developer. What's more, it was published independently by the creators (their previous work was released by 11 bit studios).

Gameplay

Dante's Ring is a combat-free (the authors use the term "anti-combat") TPP exploration adventure game with RPG, survival and roguelike elements. It takes us to a mysterious island located in the Pacific Ring of Fire, where we must face "the unstoppable forces of nature during an unexpected volcanic eruption."

We take on the role of a "brave discoverer" or "bold researcher" trying to survive on the island. At first the island seemed to be part of an extinct volcanic range, but it turns out to be an antechamber to hell. At the same time, we must also save the lives of as many people as possible (animals and humans).

Battling the forces of nature, we discover the secrets of this land buried deep beneath the ground. The main threats are lava flows, volcanic fires and earthquakes. To survive, we are provided with fire-resistant armor, retro-styled weapons, various gadgets, and even vehicles.

In addition, it is necessary to “show ingenuity” and “strategically plan our actions”. This is the way to solve puzzles and break through obstacles. For example, we may have to open a closed door or provide someone with first aid at a moment when every second matters. The latter requires resources found "in areas covered with a thick layer of ash". They need to be stored in the base, where we prepare for subsequent expeditions.

Story

"Complex moral decisions shape the story not only of our protagonist, but also of the other survivors". The story also does not lack "human prejudices, social conflicts and the protagonist's own inner demons", who attempts to build an "apparent peace" between factions fighting for survival.

Last updated on November 27, 2024