Entropy: A Grim Fantasy RPG from the Creators of Dread Delusion

A new turn-based role-playing game titled 'Entropy' has been revealed by Lovely Hellplace, the development team behind the critically acclaimed 'Dread Delusion.' Unlike its vibrant and often surreal predecessor, 'Entropy' embraces a more somber and feudal setting, drawing inspiration from classic Japanese RPGs while cultivating an atmosphere reminiscent of dark fantasy titles. Players will guide a theater ensemble thrust into a cosmic struggle, their decisions influencing the destiny of a world scarred by inexplicable infertility and tyrannical rule. The game promises a unique blend of strategic combat, a compelling narrative, and an array of eccentric characters, all presented with a distinctive visual style.

The announcement of 'Entropy' yesterday showcased a game that retains the charming, low-fidelity graphics akin to PS1-era titles, a hallmark of Lovely Hellplace's previous work. However, the visual and thematic direction has shifted markedly. While 'Dread Delusion' explored vibrant and psychedelic landscapes, 'Entropy' appears to lean into a more grim and statistically intricate experience, echoing the challenging nature often found in 'Souls-like' games. Despite this darker tone, the game assures players that it will be populated with the kind of bizarre and memorable personalities that made 'Dread Delusion' so beloved, including quirky companions like a 'man who is also a snail' and a 'skinless individual undeterred by their condition.'

In 'Entropy,' the player's journey begins as a theatre troupe, whose performances are interrupted by an invasion of demonic forces. This unexpected turn of events propels them into a grand adventure where their choices will bear significant weight, shaping the fate of their besieged world. Lovely Hellplace has explicitly stated their design ethos for 'Entropy' is rooted in the rich traditions of classic JRPGs, a lineage clearly visible in the early glimpses provided. This inspiration suggests a focus on character progression, strategic combat encounters, and a deep narrative that unfolds through the party's interactions and decisions.

Although direct comparisons to 'Morrowind' might seem tiresome for the developers, 'Entropy' exhibits certain qualities that resonate with the acclaimed Elder Scrolls title. Beyond mere aesthetic similarities, such as the presence of giant fungi, the game conjures a sense of an enigmatic and hostile world, coupled with a folkloric narrative and central conflict. This ability to create an immersive, strangely unsettling yet captivating setting, where players navigate complex social and political landscapes, is a profound compliment, indicating that 'Entropy' is poised to offer a deeply engaging and unique role-playing experience upon its release next year.