Passageway of the Ancients, an upcoming classic fantasy CRPG, is set to make its debut on Steam in the first quarter of 2024. Inspired by the beloved CRPGs of the late ’80s and ’90s, this game promises to transport players to the enchanting world of Aieryon – the last magical planet in the galaxy. Developed by Passageway Games, a small three-person studio based in Abilene, Texas, this project is the realization of a lifelong dream for the septuagenarians Jon Grierson and John Hendrick, who share a passion for gaming and creativity.
Exploring the City of Ithgar to Unravel a Murder Mystery
In Passageway of the Ancients, players will find themselves immersed in the city of Ithgar, where they take on the role of a character seeking to uncover the truth behind their parents’ tragic murder. Survival is not the only challenge; players will have to manage their party, develop and customize their characters, solve Runic puzzles, and pick locks to progress in the game.
An Innovative Blend of Strategy and Real-Time Combat
The game boasts an innovative battle system that skillfully combines both strategic elements and real-time combat, drawing inspiration from historical weaponry and tactics. As players delve deeper into the story, they will discover that their characters possess dual personas – a hidden “Dragonkindt” and a public-facing race (Dwarf, Elf, Human) – both of which require simultaneous leveling.
Unraveling the Mystery of Dragonkindt
The hidden “Dragonkindt” race is a unique and intriguing aspect of the game. As described in Jon Grierson’s unpublished novel, “The Children of Xi-Shei,” Dragonkindt are part angelic beings, part shapeshifters, and part Dragons. Despite their fascinating nature, they are ruthlessly persecuted in the world of Aieryon, leading them to conceal their true identities.
Passion-Driven Development by Seasoned Creators
Passageway of the Ancients is the brainchild of Jon Grierson and John Hendrick, who have a rich history of collaboration dating back 30 years. Their journey together began on a medical device project, where Hendrick was deeply impressed by Grierson’s work ethic, creativity, and technical skills. With Grierson’s extensive background in RPGs, the duo decided to form Passageway Games in 2014, with Hendrick providing the necessary financing.
A High-Quality Isometric RPG with Classic Fantasy Feel
Jon Grierson, the Creative & Technical Director of Passageway Games, expressed his excitement about fulfilling a lifelong dream through Passageway of the Ancients. The studio’s name, “passageway,” reflects the essence of their endeavor – to create a captivating gaming experience that revolves around storytelling, magic, and medieval combat. Drawing inspiration from classic fantasy authors like Tolkien and Moorcock, and paying homage to ’90s RPGs, the game aims to offer the best of both worlds, combining nostalgia with modern PC gaming comforts.
Key Features of Passageway of the Ancients
- Blended Combat System: Players will engage in battles that require a balance of strategic planning and real-time execution, drawing from historical weapons and tactics.
- Dual-Persona Character Development: Manage the growth of two personas for your character – the secretive Dragonkindt and the public-facing race of your choice (Dwarf, Elf, Human).
- Powerful Magical Items: Equip your characters carefully with magical items that influence attributes like intelligence and will.
- Complex Decision Trees: Navigate through a maze of choices that impact battle outcomes, puzzle-solving, special activities, interactions, and the gathering of crucial clues.
- Fully Customizable Characters: Choose your character’s appearance, gender, and alternate persona, embracing the role of Dwarf, Elf, or Human.
Available on Steam in Q1 2024
Passageway of the Ancients is set to hit Steam in the first quarter of 2024. The pricing details are yet to be announced. As the release date approaches, fans of classic CRPGs and fantasy adventures can look forward to embarking on a magical journey through the mystical world of Aieryon, where they will face formidable challenges, uncover ancient secrets, and unravel the mystery of the persecuted Dragonkindt race. With its nostalgic charm and innovative gameplay, Passageway of the Ancients is poised to capture the hearts of RPG enthusiasts worldwide.
Platforms: Microsoft Windows
