Dread Delusion

Release Date: May 14, 2024

RPG, FPP, fantasy, steampunk, sandbox, indie games, singleplayer

7.7

OpenCritic

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An RPG game with an FPP camera and an open world. Dread Delusion tries to combine elements of fantasy and steampunk. We are transported to a group of islands which we can freely explore. The game offers a chance to solve problems using weapons, magic or diplomacy.

Plot
Gameplay

Dread Delusion is an FPP game with RPG elements and stylized retro 3D graphics, which was developed largely by artist and animator James Wragg working for the Lovely Hellplace studio.

Plot

The action of Dread Delusion takes place in the area of floating islands, also known as the Dream Islands. This is centuries after an apocalypse made their surface uninhabitable. These lands are ruled by the Apostolic Union, which has taken repressive measures to gain control.

We wake up as a prisoner and receive an offer of freedom in exchange for the task of hunting down the leader of the outlawed mercenaries of the Dark Star - Vela Callose. During the pursuit, we receive the blessing of one of the gods, who in the game are material beings. This results in a struggle, the consequences of which lead us on an adventure.

Gameplay

The game includes a character development system, which provides the option to solve quests without engaging in combat. We can develop four attributes: strength, cunning, wisdom, and character. They influence the hero's abilities, such as: attack, defense, agility, but also casting spells or breaking in. Attributes are increased by collecting Delusions - skulls that we come across while exploring the world or completing certain quests.

Combat is not the most important feature, therefore its mechanics are simplified and involve swinging the weapon towards enemies using the mouse. Apart from the traditional weapon in the form of a sword, the arsenal also features a dagger combined with a pistol.

Exploration is a key element of the game, and we interact with the world in several ways. For example, to open the door, we participate in a mini-game that involves rolling a dice for the required number of points. The contents of hidden chests in towns change according to the day and night cycle, allowing us to obtain various equipment or knowledge.

Weapons, spells, and quick-use items are managed in the inventory. We can also acquire or purchase equipment that enhances their skills.

Videos and Screens

[1:00] Dread Delusion Dread Delusion - 1.0 Launch Trailer

[1:05] Dread Delusion Dread Delusion - Trailer #1

7.7

OpenCritic Rating

Game is Recomended by 71% of Critics. There are 21 Critic Reviews.

OpenCritic

CGMagazine: 7.5 / 10 by Philip Watson

Dread Delusion is a fun romp in a fleshed-out world, definitely worth undertaking for the meagre price of admission.

Full Review

COGconnected: 88 / 100 by Jaina Hill

After a while, I forgot I was sick of pixels. I look at Dread Delusion and I don’t see part of a trend. I see a game that set out to capture a particular tone and succeeded wildly. It’s not that playing Dread Delusion is like going back and playing those old games. Dread Delusion allows us to delude ourselves into remembering those games through magenta colored glasses.

Full Review

PCGamesN: 7 / 10 by Ian Boudreau

While the throwback graphics and simplistic combat won't appeal to many, the authentic and original story and endlessly fascinating world make Dread Delusion feel like a long-lost cult classic.

Full Review

9.5