In a whimsical twist on the traditional gaming narrative, Digixart’s upcoming title, Tides of Tomorrow, promises to redefine player interaction through its innovative asynchronous multiplayer experience. The developers, known for their acclaimed procedural road trip game Road 96, have taken a playful approach to their next venture, humorously suggesting, “We should make Road 96 but with boats! Boat 96!”
Innovative Gameplay Mechanics
Unlike its predecessor, where non-playable characters (NPCs) shaped the journey, Tides of Tomorrow invites players to engage with one another in a unique manner. As players embark on their adventures, they select another player to ‘follow’—a choice that could lead them to a stranger, a friend, or even a well-known streamer. This selection is pivotal, as it sets the stage for a shared experience that transcends the individual.
Adrien Poncet from PlayStation Blog elaborates on this intriguing mechanic: “Thanks to our ‘asynchronous vision’ system, you’ll see echoes of this player’s choices and actions, in the form of ‘ghosts’. These visions assist players in navigating challenges, avoiding traps, and piecing together the narrative that unfolds based on the actions of others.”
Players need not fret if they find themselves following a less-than-ideal companion. The game allows for a change in direction; should one discover that their chosen player has left a trail of chaos, they can simply opt to follow someone else. Poncet notes, “There are lots of reasons to follow one player over another. Maybe you like their playstyle, want to discover their choices, or to benefit from the resources they left behind.”
As players traverse the vibrant world of Tides of Tomorrow, the dynamics of following and being followed create a rich tapestry of interactions. Each decision ripples through the gameplay, fostering a sense of community and shared storytelling. The release is eagerly anticipated, with the game set to launch on February 24, 2026.