Ashen: A Sunless Fictional World

     Here is a nice little find.  Ashen, a game that is said to be an open world action-RPG that needs to be explored and survived.  Even the most menial creatures can be dangerous and lead to death so you may act with combat or avoidance.  There is a non-linear progression, and it will include a "passive multiplayer" which will allow you choose how to best deal with people.

     Here's the official blurb:

     Ashen is an action RPG about a wanderer in search of a place to call home. There is no sun and the natural light that exists comes from eruptions that cover the land in ash. This is a world where nothing lasts, no matter how tightly you cling to it.

     At its core, Ashen is about forging relationships.

     Players can choose to guide those they trust to their camp, encouraging them to rest at the fire and perhaps remain. People you meet out in the world will have unique skills and crafting abilities to bolster your chances of survival.

     Together, you might just stand a chance.

     This looks to be a very promising game and I'll be keeping an eye on it.  The idea of a passive multiplayer is very intriguing.  I can't say what it means for sure yet, but it sounds like Dark Souls, but without the constant threat of invasion and death looming over your head.  The website lists it as "People you meet out in the world are players with their own agendas. It will be up to you to decide how to deal with them."  So maybe it'll be like Journey, where you can help or ignore them.  I would like to enjoy the atmospheric world without being on edge the whole time.  We'll have to wait and see.

     Ashen will be coming to PC, Mac, and Linux.


     Source [ Aurora 44 ]