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

MonsterVine: 3.5 / 5 by Nick Mangiaracina

Dread Delusion fills a specific niche that hasn’t been touched in decades. While I wouldn’t recommend this game to just anyone, Dread Delusion sets a high bar for adventure RPGs and utilizes its art style to perfectly capture the era of gaming it draws inspiration from.

Full Review

Geek to Geek Media: 4 / 5 by Troy Dunham

I have no idea how Dread Delusion would strike newcomers, but retro throwbacks like these aren’t appealing to that audience first. This is a game built for people like me; people who loved being lost in Morrowind; people who still think Stilt Striders are the superior form of fast travel; and people who were addicted to Skooma before they were old enough to drink. If you grew up on Morrowind, I think you’ll love Dread Delusion just as much as I do.

Full Review

Retrolike.net: 6.7 / 10 by Sebastiaan Barneveld

If you’re in for challenging and engaging combat, daring dungeon dives, devious traps and clever puzzles, you’d best look elsewhere. However, if you’re in for a fairly casual exploration of strange lands and get drawn into some interesting lore, Dread Delusion can still deliver a fun experience worth your time!

Full Review

9.5