Imagine a 1930s New York, not of skyscrapers scraping the clouds, but of entire districts floating amidst them, powered by a mysterious anti-gravity technology known as “aether.” This is the world Seismic Squirrel invites players to explore in their newly unveiled narrative-driven RPG, “Aether & Iron,” a game that blends classic noir with retro-futuristic flair.
Forget the roaring twenties; this is a decade warped by technological discovery, where the familiar grit of New York’s underbelly meets the soaring heights of aether-powered innovation. You step into the worn shoes of Gia, a smuggler navigating this vertical cityscape, where shady gangsters and corrupt politicians hold sway. It’s a world where your “Hustle,” “Smarts,” and “Brass” are your most valuable assets, and where the roll of the dice can mean the difference between a successful haul and a watery grave.
“Aether & Iron” isn’t just a visual feast; it’s a narrative tapestry woven with intrigue and danger. A simple job quickly spirals into a city-wide conspiracy, forcing Gia to forge alliances, confront old demons, and orchestrate betrayals. The game boasts a writing team with credits on titles like Far Cry, Mass Effect, and Sovereign Syndicate, promising a rich and compelling story that delves into the social divides and power struggles of this alternate 1930s.
Your car, a staple of any good smuggler’s trade, is more than just a means of transport; it’s a weapon. “Aether & Iron” introduces turn-based vehicular combat, where players customize their rides with weapons and armor, engaging in high-speed battles through the city’s treacherous streets. Strategic use of traffic hazards, like ramming opponents into oncoming obstacles, adds a layer of tactical depth to the combat.
Beyond the adrenaline-pumping battles, players will explore diverse and immersive locations, encountering a fascinating cast of characters. Each companion brings unique talents and backstories, adding depth to the crew-building aspect of the game. The choices you make will shape not only your own path but the fate of New York itself, leaving you to decide whether you’ll be a savior, a renegade, or a symbol of resilience.
Seismic Squirrel, a team of industry veterans and passionate newcomers, has poured their heart into crafting a world that feels both familiar and fantastical. The game’s visuals, inspired by 1930s detective comics and the art deco period, create a unique and captivating atmosphere. With full voice acting, “Aether & Iron” promises to immerse players in a world of intrigue, where every conversation and every decision matters.
“We’re really excited to reveal Aether & Iron to the world!” says Jay Zylstra, President of Seismic Squirrel. “We hope to bring you on an immersive journey into a retro-futuristic 1930s New York, a timely setting of both hope and uncertainty based on many fascinating real-world people and events.”
As players navigate the treacherous streets and soaring districts of this aether-powered New York, they’ll discover a world where the past and future collide, and where their choices will determine the fate of a city teetering on the edge of change. Keep an eye on Seismic Squirrel’s channels for more updates as they prepare to launch this captivating RPG.