In the latest unveiling from Hooded Horse, the much-anticipated game Vaunted has captured the attention of the gaming community. This sci-fi tactical RPG, showcased during the recent Xbox Partner Preview, invites players to navigate the treacherous waters of a criminal underworld, commanding a diverse team of thieves and mercenaries. The narrative unfolds after a high-stakes expedition spirals into chaos, compelling the crew to serve a formidable syndicate.
Gameplay Mechanics and Features
At its core, Vaunted revolves around assembling a colorful cast of characters and leading them through tactical battles in a run-based format. A standout feature of the game is its dual combat system, allowing players to toggle between turn-based strategy and real-time action. This innovative mechanic enables players to meticulously plan their moves during fixed turns, then seamlessly transition to real-time gameplay to maneuver characters into advantageous positions or evade threats.
Initially, one might liken this mechanic to a dynamic rewind feature reminiscent of Call of Juarez: Gunslinger’s narrative twists. However, given Vaunted’s run-based structure, this analogy falls short. Instead, the game appears to offer a fresh approach to storytelling, where the loss of characters can lead to new perspectives for those who remain. This design choice enriches the gameplay experience, inviting players to explore various narrative branches shaped by their decisions.
According to Lost Lake Games, the studio behind Vaunted, “Every conversation you have, and every decision you make—and who you make it as—can change how things play out, for better or for worse.” This emphasis on player agency is further enhanced by a roguelite element. As characters progress through their runs, they accumulate “credibility,” which can be spent on stat upgrades upon their demise, increasing their chances of survival in subsequent attempts.
Leading the charge at Lost Lake Studios is James Phinney, a veteran designer known for his pivotal roles in the development of iconic titles such as StarCraft and both Guild Wars and Guild Wars 2. His expertise in blending innovative concepts within established genres bodes well for the potential of Vaunted.
While a specific release date remains under wraps, the game is slated to launch later this year, promising an engaging blend of strategy, storytelling, and character development that could redefine the tactical RPG landscape.
