Planescape Torment spiritual successor Tides of Numenera’s Kickstarter success is well documented, but with games, the proof is always in the pudding. While the team behind the game is not only made up of, but also has the blessing of original Torment developers, seeing the game take shape is still pretty great. Especially when that shape includes a “semi-sentient” environment that is actively hunting the player’s characters.
“The Bloom is a vast, semi-sentient predator, a monstrous, organic creation that extends its tendrils through the folds of reality,” according to inXile. “Its pathways, nooks, and crannies conceal terrors and wonders alike, and for those daring or desperate souls who are forced to find refuge here, any step has the potential to send them to another world. It’s a hub, a centre of commerce for those who trade in the relics of other worlds.”
The Unique World of Tides of Numenera
Tides of Numenera is set in a world that is both familiar and alien, drawing heavily from the Numenera tabletop role-playing game created by Monte Cook. The Ninth World, as it is called, is built upon the ruins of eight previous civilizations, each more advanced than the last. This setting allows for a rich tapestry of history, technology, and magic to be interwoven, creating a unique backdrop for the player’s journey. The Bloom, as described, is just one example of the many strange and wondrous locations players will encounter. This semi-sentient environment is not just a static backdrop but an active participant in the story, capable of influencing events and challenging the player in unexpected ways.
Gameplay and Player Choices
One of the standout features of Tides of Numenera is its emphasis on narrative and player choice. Much like its predecessor, Planescape: Torment, the game focuses on deep storytelling and complex characters. Players are often faced with morally ambiguous decisions that can have far-reaching consequences. The Bloom itself is a perfect example of this. Navigating its treacherous pathways requires not just combat prowess but also cunning and diplomacy. Players might find themselves negotiating with the Bloom or its inhabitants, making alliances, or even sacrificing something valuable to proceed.
The game also introduces the concept of “Tides,” which are akin to a moral alignment system but more nuanced. These Tides reflect the player’s actions and decisions, influencing how NPCs react to them and shaping the overall narrative. This system ensures that each playthrough can be a unique experience, with different outcomes based on the player’s choices.
The development team at inXile has gone to great lengths to ensure that Tides of Numenera lives up to the legacy of Planescape: Torment. This includes not only crafting a compelling story and world but also engaging gameplay mechanics that challenge the player to think critically and creatively. The Kickstarter campaign’s success is a testament to the community’s faith in the project, and the developers have been transparent in sharing their progress and vision with backers.
In addition to the main storyline, Tides of Numenera offers a plethora of side quests and optional content. These side quests are not mere filler but are intricately tied to the game’s world and lore. They provide additional depth and context, allowing players to explore the Ninth World more thoroughly and uncover its many secrets. Whether it’s helping a lost soul find peace or uncovering a hidden conspiracy, these quests add layers of richness to the overall experience.
In conclusion, Tides of Numenera promises to be a worthy successor to Planescape: Torment, offering a deep, immersive experience that combines rich storytelling, complex characters, and innovative gameplay. The Bloom, with its semi-sentient nature and myriad of possibilities, exemplifies the game’s commitment to creating a living, breathing world that reacts to the player’s actions. As the game continues to take shape, it is clear that the team at inXile is dedicated to delivering a game that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of its passionate fanbase.
Source Kickstarter
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