This is an idea I’ve been working out for over a year now. It’s a big undertaking so not a project that will see the light until I am at least halfway done with it. To be honest it may not happen for a few years because it’s pretty ambitious and I want it to be nearly perfect. But I wanted to share the idea and see if an interest exsists.
So the game is set in the Visnyean empire, which is thriving in the aftermath of civil war that has lead to a new sytstem of government negotiated between nations. The empire’s hold over each country has dissolved, and the nations have more of an agreement to remain one for security and ecnomical reasons.
Essentially, the resolution to the conflict was to cycle between different nations to control the empire, every 150 years. The next to rule depends on how that nation fairs in a summit, where each nation sends envoys to “compete” in order to establish their worthiness. The main component of the summit is a tournament style system (more on that in the future) but that’s only one of the ways to secure power. Much of the summit for those not interested in becoming the new capital is securing political or economic agreements with foreign nations.
You’ll play the role of an envoy for one of 6 major countries, and your goal is essentially dependent on what is expected of you given your background, which country you’re from. Each nation has a different agenda, and your role in it will vary wildly. But generally, you will be working to secure your nation’s status as future capital.
So more on each major country, and your background associated with it.
Summary
VISNYE: (pronounced with a silent S) Current capital for the Empire as it stands, a country rich in mineral resources and a center of growing industrialization. The glittering appearance of the capital hides a history of labor abuse and class warfare, but a recent attempt at overthrowal of the empire has seen a more more “progressive” heiress take the throne, though it is mostly lip service.
BACKGROUND: Not playable.
MYNHEL: Religious, conservative nation, and a major military force in the region. Conservative in that they’re pretty simple and straightforward. They love their religion, their king, and their army. Genrrally, they’re seen as the frontrunner for future control, as they’re well established and very pwerful. However, Issues with the current king and whispers of corruption has left their standing more shaky and has made the king desperate for victory.
BACKGROUND: You will play as a well connected leutenant general sent mainly to focus on claiming victory in the tournament.
KAISHEN: Rural, but beautiful farming based country. They supply much of the food for the region, so many nations depend on them. But the newest ruler is taking advantage of their position. Her ambition has led to her creating artificial food shortages in order to create discord in foreign countries, and the country is seen as the force to take down in the summit.
BACKGROUND: You will play an assassin for the queen that will serve as a spy during the summit. Your goal is to gather secrets and create friction in order to put Kaishen in a stronger position.
GRENWALSH: Portside hub built around the gulf that expands to several other major countries, so they’re kind of the central point of trade of the empire. Where merchants go to work. They’re the only country with a representative democracy as they’re so large there isn’t really a central ruler. The leader is a staunch isolationist who hopes to see the end of their participation in the empire and establish Grenwalsh as an independent nation.
BACKGROUND: Play as an elected official for one of the bigger cities in the nation. Your goals are more open, but you’ll need to appease many different groups in your actions, mainly your constituents, and the merchants who sponsor you.
EUSTES: Rebellious country that left the empire sparking the civil war, but rejoined in the aftermath and proceeding treaty because of economical disaster. Mainly an industrial country, shifting away from agriculture as the opportunity for growth was stronger. But since the industry is so new and strange, they are in a precarious position. There is also strongly religious sector, and a growing movement to protect the sanctity of the country and stop industrialization is present.
BACKGROUND: You’ll play as heir to the throne of Eustes, where you’ll need to work on estalbishing ties to foreign nations and secure a strong, politcal marriage.
ASCILLA: Magic and knowledge oriented country, home to the most prestigious school in all of the empire. Is typically seperate from politics as its a smaller country without any kind of political clout. Its king oversees a country that also mines, thanks to its vast mountain network. They have a rigid caste system in place as well, with a huge focus on aristocracy.
BACKGROUND: You MIGHT NOT be able to play as an envoy from this country. I’m still working on making this country playable. If I include the option: You’ll play as an instructor and scholar from the academy, and your role would likely be as support for the other envoys. Your magical talents would mean you’re likely focusing on competing in the tournament as well.
So yeah, it’s going to be a pretty in depth game. It probably won’t be overly long, to focus on replayability. There are also around 13 characters in the game for you to befriend, and a few less that you can romance. If there’s interest I can share a little bit of information on the other envoys or any other info really.