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Voicast is a 2.5D side scrolling platformer that pushes the boundaries of 2.5D and combines elements of exploration based side scrollers, with a dark theme and unique setting inspired by Ancient Rome.

The core game loop consists of using the abilities at one’s disposal to explore new areas and discover new locations, to in turn be rewarded with progression in narrative, area access but more importantly, new abilities that further open up the world. Using these new abilities the cycle repeats, revealing new areas to explore, both on and off the critical path to the end of the game.

Combat is a very important gameplay element in Voidcast and there is a large variety of hostile creatures lurking in the shadows. Combat progression culminates into epic screen-filling boss battles that will put your skills to the test. Our Combat System focuses on melee weapon fighting but throughout their journey, players will discover additional combat abilities and upgrades that will allow them to lay down a combat style they are comfortable with.

Voidcast is a game that is being created with gamers in mind. We are developing it for people that enjoy a challenge and get satisfaction from overcoming difficult boss fights, as well as revealing all the secrets of a mysterious and hostile world.

The Visual and Narrative Theme of Voidcast

In terms of a worldbuilding and visual theme, we have strived to create something unique that excites the imagination. Atromitos, a vast spaceship / space station, had been roaming the universe for hundreds of years. Initially serving as an exploration and scientific research vessel, it eventually became a society of its own, when the ruling class allowed civilians to board and live on the ship.

Over decades, Atromitos evolved into a miniature society with different classes and factions each with its own goals and aspirations. Modeled after what Ancient roman society would look like if it survived until 3000 AD, the society of Atromitos sports expansive wealth distribution discrepancies, decadence, hubris and arrogance.

Based on the theme, our narrative follows ancient Greek tragedy tropes such as the holy trifecta of Hubris, Punishment and Redemption, a progression that is strong in the heroine's personal story, but also in the overarching narrative that takes place on the ship.

In the game, we are also highlighting social issues like class divide, higher class arrogance and the devolvement of an advanced but decadent civilization that experiences a life threatening crisis.

A game of contrasts

In voidcast we utilize contrasts to create memorable narrative and gameplay moments. Most importantly, our core gameplay mechanics revolve around the use of light and darkness to traverse the environment but this thematic pillar of contrasts permeates other areas of the game as well.

Players will transition from tight winding corridors to impressive open area vistas, from solving slow paced puzzles to intense combat, from interacting with deranged citizens to somber and emotional moments.

The ship is split into several departments that each provide a different landscape with a unique visual identity, its own core theme and color palette. Large, spacious luxurious sectors with large, colourful and pompeuse roman influenced architecture, down to the more narrow, dirty, makeshift-looking and more cyber-punk influenced poorer sectors makes for a unique and varied journey through the passages of the ship. Years of battles between warring factions have left the ship in a state of disarray and partial ruin.

Mystery as a driving force

In addition to our unique theme and narrative, we are using mystery as a vehicle to retain player attention and peak their curiosity. At the start of the game, Adrestia is being revived by a mysterious force, the involvement of supernatural beings and powers is evident, but the players will need to push forwards to unveil what exactly is happening on the ship.

Early on, it is revealed that Adrestia was actually deceased for 7 years but what happened to her and the ship at that time is unclear. As our heroine investigates more and comes into contact with more survivors, it slowly becomes apparent that what has happened on Atromitos is partly her doing, even though she has no recollection of the details.

As the game progresses, the narrative focuses on Adrestia’s personal story of hubris, punishment and her chance at redemption. Until the finale of the game where everything is revealed, various small pieces of information will slowly compose a larger picture, with players that opt to chase all the leads and secrets, having the most complete view of the narrative.

Atmosphere

The Atromitos is rife with spooky environments and unnerving sound design. The visual identifications of the grandiose spaceship you’re exploring tells of a past of many, many years long internal conflicts between the different classes and factions of the ship.

The ancient Roman and Greek architecture and style influence is found throughout the ship, functioning as a visual red thread, but will be most apparent in the more wealthy sectors.

Narrative is often told through the environment and you will see creepy writings on the walls, hear echoes of the tormented whispering through the empty corridors and meet quirky characters. Sometimes paying attention to the environment will give clues towards discovering secrets.