Of Ash and Steel: A Gritty Medieval RPG That Rewards Curiosity
Set to launch in 2025, Of Ash and Steel is an upcoming third-person open-world RPG developed by Fire & Frost and published by tinyBuild. Drawing inspiration from classic RPGs like Gothic and The Witcher 3, the game promises a rich, low-fantasy experience where player choice and exploration take center stage.
A World in Decline: The Kingdom of the Seven
The game unfolds on the island of Grayshaft, part of the Kingdom of the Seven archipelago. Once a prosperous realm, it now lies in disrepair, its people struggling to survive amidst the ruins. Players step into the boots of Tristan, a character with a murky past, as they navigate this harsh landscape. The world is designed to be explored without hand-holding; there are no quest markers, and the game encourages players to rely on their instincts and curiosity to uncover secrets and progress.
Combat: Methodical and Immersive
Combat in Of Ash and Steel is designed to be deliberate and engaging. Players can choose from three combat stances, each tailored to different weapons and playstyles. The game incorporates elements of Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA), offering a realistic and satisfying swordplay experience. Additionally, environmental interactions play a significant role; for instance, players can use their surroundings to their advantage, such as kicking a bucket into an enemy’s face during a duel.
Magic also features in the gameplay, though not in the traditional sense. Instead of casting spells, players can unlock abilities that function similarly to the “Signs” in The Witcher series. These powers are often acquired through specific in-game actions, encouraging experimentation and rewarding players for their creativity.
Character Progression: From Outcast to Legend
Character development in Of Ash and Steel is deeply tied to player choices and actions. The game features three skill branches: Survival, Craftsmanship, and War. As players allocate attribute points and complete quests, they unlock passive bonuses and abilities. More importantly, the world reacts to the player’s progression; early in the game, Tristan may be treated as an outcast, but as his skills grow, NPCs’ attitudes shift, with some even bowing in respect.
Exploration: A Living, Breathing World
Exploration is at the heart of Of Ash and Steel. The game world is filled with hidden treasures, underwater caves, side quests, and formidable bosses. Without quest markers, players must rely on their wits and curiosity to discover these secrets. The dynamic day-night cycle and evolving weather systems further enhance immersion, affecting both gameplay and atmosphere.
NPCs follow their own daily routines, adding to the sense of a living, breathing world. Players can interact with these characters, forge alliances, and shape the fate of the kingdom through their decisions.
Aesthetic and Atmosphere
The game’s visual and auditory design contributes significantly to its immersive experience. The environment comes alive with ambient sounds, from the rustling of leaves to distant birdsong, enhancing the atmosphere. The soundtrack dynamically changes based on the region, time of day, and weather, with different themes accompanying various enemy types to avoid overused epic boss music.
Of Ash and Steel stands out in the RPG landscape by emphasizing player agency, exploration, and a methodical approach to combat. Its commitment to a low-fantasy setting, coupled with deep character progression and a dynamic world, offers a refreshing take on the genre. For those seeking a game that rewards curiosity and strategic thinking, Of Ash and Steel is one to watch in 2025.
For more information and to add the game to your wishlist, visit the official Steam page Steam Store
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