Shadow of the Road 
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Japanese set Baldur's Gate 3 style RPG Shadow of the Road gets new playtestMay 26, 2025 - PCGamesNEver wonder what Baldur's Gate 3 would be like if it were set in the Far East? The answer is Shadow of the Road, which transports you to an alternative feudal Japan where magic and machinery mix. And if you're sufficiently intrigued by that premise, you can play it right now. Read the rest of the story... RELATED LINKS: New tactical RPG is like XCOM 2 mixed with steampunk, and you can play it now Shadow of the Road is a gorgeous new turn-based RPG set in a steampunk Japan XCOM 2 style tactics head to fantasy Japan in Shadow of the Road The Open Alpha is here!Mar 25, 2025 - Community AnnouncementsGreetings, noble warriors! We are proud to announce that the Alpha for Shadow of the Road is open and available for public. We are also happy to present you with this opportunity to try out our game for free, and would gladly accept any and all feedback. Share your impressions, speedruns, fanart, showcase your mastery of the game’s mechanics and your deep understanding of Japanese folklore and culture. We’ll be waiting for you! Join our community at Discord: {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/c4c51a7246abc6e04e52aef35cc833f2e90045aa.png And other platforms! 📍 Facebook 📍 X (Twitter) 📍 Instagram 📍 Youtube https://store.steampowered.com/app/1173980/Shadow_of_the_Road/ New tactical RPG is like XCOM 2 mixed with steampunk, and you can play it nowMar 25, 2025 - PCGamesNOne of XCOM 2's greatest magic tricks is how it transforms numbers, statistics, and menus into high-stakes tension. Think of the most spectacular and explosive videogame in recent memory - something like Cyberpunk 2077 or Battlefield - and even at their dramatic heights, they struggle to match the fear and pressure of a single XCOM turn. Inspired by that same, pseudo-isometric, tactical combat, Shadow of the Road feels like a neat companion piece to Assassin's Creed Shadows. If you want more samurai and warring factions, but this time with a steampunk twist, you can try it right now. Read the rest of the story... RELATED LINKS: Shadow of the Road is a gorgeous new turn-based RPG set in a steampunk Japan XCOM 2 style tactics head to fantasy Japan in Shadow of the Road Gear Up! 🛡️ New trailer and Alpha registrationMar 17, 2025 - Community AnnouncementsGreetings, warriors! We are excited to announce that the alpha of Shadow of the Road is almost here, and with it, we present you with a brand-new trailer that reveals what awaits you: a story of honor and duty, mystical yokai and unprecedented technologies, and epic battles where every choice shapes history! Music: "Hayabusa" by EXYZ, SENZO, MOMOKUSU IWATA Now is the time to prepare your weapons and armor because a thrilling adventure is about to unfold. To get ready, you only need to follow a few simple steps. 1. Mark Your Calendars! 📅 The alpha is set to launch on March 25! 2. Visit the official Steam page for Shadow of the Road by clicking here or search for Shadow of the Road directly in Steam. 3. Scroll down and click on “join the shadow of the road playtest.” https://i.imgur.com/U0hVUp4.jpeg That’s it! All that remains is to hone your patience as you await the epic journey starting next week! Prepare yourself, sharpen your resolve, and get ready to carve your own path through an unforgettable adventure. The fate of the Empire awaits its heroes — will you answer the call? https://store.steampowered.com/app/1173980/Shadow_of_the_Road/ Break It Down: Crafting Chaos on the Battlefield!Mar 6, 2025 - Community AnnouncementsIn the midst of the conflict between traditional mysticism and steampunk progress, the battlefield of Shadow of the Road is as dynamic as the warriors who tread it. For you, honorable samurai, understanding the intricacies of the destructible environment is key to mastering both strategy and surprise on the field. Unleashing Destruction Every object in the battlefield can be a tool of chaos when wielded wisely. Most of the surroundings — be they wooden barrels or stone boulders — have their own endurance, determined by their size and the material from which they are made. A nimble strike along an object’s line, or a forceful passage by a large character, can shatter these constructs. When you engage an enemy in your line of sight, you have the power to attack through these breakable barriers, distributing damage between your foe and the obstacle — all without sacrificing your precious Movement Points. https://i.imgur.com/EKiXon5.gif Imagine the battlefield as a living canvas: each shattered object is a stroke of your strategic brilliance. Whether you’re dodging enemy blows or setting up your next devastating attack, every debris can play a part in your victory. The Explosive Edge Beyond the standard objects, a particular set of items awaits those ready to embrace explosive chaos. Gunpowder crates are unique to ENC-affiliated areas. Unlike traditional Japanese armaments, these volatile crates add a modern twist to the ancient art of warfare. https://i.imgur.com/clsxXwm.gif These crates remain inert until their predetermined damage threshold is met. Depending on the weapon — be it the swift slice of a katana or the rapid burst of a rifle — the speed of their explosive reaction may vary. But one fact remains constant: once destroyed, these crates will unleash a powerful blast, damaging all within its circular reach. For a true warrior, the timing and positioning of such explosions can turn the tide of battle in an instant. Stay Connected with the Community As you continue your journey through the dynamic world of Shadow of the Road, make sure you stay connected for the latest updates and insights. Follow our social media channels on 📍 Facebook 📍 X (Twitter) 📍 Instagram 📍 Youtube and join our vibrant community on Discord. {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/c4c51a7246abc6e04e52aef35cc833f2e90045aa.png These platforms not only keep you informed about exciting new developments and community events, but they also serve as your ultimate guide to mastering the art of chaos on the battlefield. In conclusion, every shattered barrier and every explosive surprise is a testament to your strategy and spirit as a samurai warrior. Embrace the chaos, harness the environment, and let your mastery of destruction lead you to victory. Stay alert, stay connected, and prepare for an ever-evolving battlefield where every moment counts! https://store.steampowered.com/app/1173980/Shadow_of_the_Road/ Yokai Feature RevealDec 12, 2024 - Community AnnouncementsSamurai! On the fringes of reality bordering myth live the Yokai, the enigmatic spitirs of Japanese folklore. In the new trailer, you’ll catch glimpses of the legends you’ll encounter in Shadow of the Road, but we’ll share more about each of them very soon... Shadow of the Road is a gorgeous new turn-based RPG set in a steampunk JapanDec 5, 2024 - PCGamesNThere were two little concepts that got me with Shadow of the Road: steampunk, and feudal Japan. Two very clashing aesthetics, the former is characterized by heavy metals and hulking machinery, where the latter champions tranquillity and wood-based structures. Developer Another Angle, however, has struck the balance perfectly, transporting traditional Japanese folklore into a heavy metal world gone mad and throwing in Baldur's Gate 3-style combat for good measure. Safe to say, I can't wait to get my hands on it. Read the rest of the story... RELATED LINKS: XCOM 2 style tactics head to fantasy Japan in Shadow of the Road Enjoy the brand-new trailer!Aug 26, 2024 - Community AnnouncementsSamurai! Lots of things have been happening recently, and we barely have time to share everything with you. We still have a lot of work to do, but we are so glad to see how our dreams come true and Shadow of the Road becomes what we always envisioned it to be. We hope that the final result will bring you the same delight and pleasure that we get from working on the game. We will share more news soon, but today we are excited to reveal the brand-new trailer! Take a look at what we’ve been working on lately and look closely — there are a lot of hints! Enjoy the trailer: Also we are actively working on the new visual identity, tell us in the comment section — what do you think about the new key-art? {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/6160e58493c85ac27b567b4c6b26a5b56a026e09.png And last, but not least: we are honored to be a part of Isometric Sale in the upcoming section - wishlist Shadow of the Road right now! Join our Discord server to make sure you don’t miss out on any good stuff. FOLLOW US: 📍 Facebook 📍 X (Twitter) 📍 Instagram Shadow of the Road Has a Publisher!Aug 13, 2024 - Community AnnouncementsSamurai! {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/014e6c71de52d37de571b39c4d8bd2de6d86dd9c.png Today we bring great news – we’ve found a publisher for Shadow of the Road. We recently signed a deal with Owlcat Games, who you may know as the developers behind Pathfinder: Kingmaker, Pathfinder: Wrath of the Righteous, and Warhammer 40,000: Rogue Trader. They have a lot of experience publishing their own games, and we trust that Shadow of the Road is in good hands. Owlcat Games will take care of all publishing activities and share their knowledge and experience with us. At the same time, their involvement allows us to free up resources and focus on what we do best – making a fun game for you! We expect you will see the fruits of our cooperation very soon, and we hope you love it! Cheers, Another Angle Games Follow Shadow of the Road: 📍 Facebook 📍 X (formerly Twitter) 📍 Instagram What we’ve been working on lately… #5Jul 19, 2024 - Community Announcements{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/610e53315a0671460dd07cb8ce879eee36c9ed56.png Samurai! It’s been a while since our last update, but rest assured – we’ve been fully immersed in some exciting developments that we’ll share with you in the coming weeks. And while we can't reveal everything at once, we'll be slowly spilling the beans. To back this up, here’s a glimpse into what we’ve been up to recently. Ready to dive in? Let's take a journey together! Stealth System First off, we've implemented an exciting new stealth system that’s aimed at enhancing your gameplay experience. With the press of a button, you can slip into stealth mode, revealing the enemy’s area of control and their vision. Just imagine sneaking past foes, using every bit of the bush and every shadowy hideout to your advantage... The thrill of moving undetected is at your fingertips! And while in stealth mode, you can silently take down isolated enemies or even ambush them. But be cautious - if your target is too close to their ally, you can get ambushed yourself. Thrilling, isn't it? Continuous Combat Flow Next, we’ve reworked our combat system to feature a continuous timeline. This change brings in a lot of depth and new possibilities (more about that in the future ;)). {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/4c5a359dc315bb7a8d131983b077e545cd0fbe37.png Each character now has a frequency that determines how often they will take their turn, and the order can be shifted both left and right within the timeline. It simply provides a more dynamic and strategic combat experience. Hoist the sail! To wrap things up, we have a special treat for you – a teaser for a brand-new level that’s yet to be revealed. We won’t give away too much, but let’s just say we hope none of you suffer from seasickness! ;) {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/57b31472f9104424c0e023fca417dd4ffa7154de.png Finally… We really appreciate your patience and that’s why we want to show you that we’re making steady progress with the game. To keep up with all the latest updates and sneak peeks, join our Discord and follow us on social media. {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/c4c51a7246abc6e04e52aef35cc833f2e90045aa.png We're excited to share more with you soon. Stay tuned, Warriors – the best is yet to come! Cheers, Another Angle Games Follow Shadow of the Road: 📍 Facebook 📍 X (Twitter) 📍 Instagram https://store.steampowered.com/app/1173980/Shadow_of_the_Road/ What we’ve been working on lately… #4Feb 29, 2024 - Community Announcements{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/621629c34aa045275736b670eeb41588dd88df5f.png Samurai! We're super pumped to be back and ready to spill the beans on what we've been up to lately. Hope you're just as stoked about these new developments as we are! In today's devlog we'll be focusing on updates related to the combat system. We've poured our hearts and souls into polishing this aspect of the game because… Hey, we're gamers too, and we know how crucial it is to the whole experience. Co-op Skills Let's kick things off with Co-op Skills. We see this mechanic as absolutely pivotal in the game, rooted in the connections between characters. These relationships will evolve based on player choices, the progression of events, and more. And when those links hit the sweet spot, get ready for some seriously epic special moves! Check out the sneak peek video below and let us know what you think! Environment Now, let's talk about shaking up combat with environmental interactions. We've introduced something that we call Reactive Objects. Picture this: you're in the heat of a battle, there's a barrel or something else nearby, and suddenly, bam! It explodes and changes the course of the battle! But wait, there's more! We've been fiddling with the destruction system, adding depth to it. Factors like the source and magnitude of force used on items affect how they react, so it's gonna make battles feel even more intense and satisfying. Utilize every advantage And guess what? We're not stopping there. Say hello to Interactable Items. We're throwing these into the mix to spice up the combat even more. These items may be scattered across the battlefield or stored in our inventory, if acquired beforehand. inb4 - Yes, grenades are present in Shadow of the Road! Plus, who hasn't seen those epic action movie scenes where the hero, armed with nothing but their fists, turns anything they can find into a weapon? Trust me, sometimes improvisation can be a lifesaver and a complete game changer in a fight! Occasionally, you'll snag weapons dropped by enemies, but there's also the wild card factor: sometimes an item might just activate on its own, shaking up the whole environment! In the end! To wrap things up, big thanks for checking out this devlog! We hope that you like the updates and where Shadow of the Road is headed. Stay tuned because we're aiming to chat with you more often as time goes on! Oh, and don't forget to hit that follow button on Shadow of the Road's socials - Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), and TikTok. Plus, join our Discord crew for the inside scoop on upcoming beta testing and to shoot the breeze with fellow gamers! {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/c4c51a7246abc6e04e52aef35cc833f2e90045aa.png Warm regards Another Angle Games Follow Shadow of the Road: 📍 Facebook 📍 X (Twitter) 📍 Instagram 📍 TikTok https://store.steampowered.com/app/1173980/Shadow_of_the_Road/The Diverse Environment of Shadow of the RoadJan 19, 2024 - Community Announcements{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/e2e722cbcf7f9d9f7a6b109aa8ff1742e33e3cea.png Samurai! We are thrilled to once again connect with you and share the exciting developments happening at our studio. Lately, our plate has been full, both in terms of growing the studio and continuously refining the game itself. We've been hard at work, polishing and incorporating new ideas to enhance gameplay and provide a deeper, more enjoyable experience. Diving into the depths… Environment is one of the aspects that we continually improve. Our goal is to ensure that each level immerses players profoundly. To achieve this, we're diligently working on diversifying the levels on multiple fronts, and we want to make sure that in the vast world of Shadow of the Road, you'll traverse different landscapes. {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/83ba5a39ba6b8eb6194162e66c5c783794f1f9aa.png {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/01c6a125e2068093fc4def61ba81f4f6cc35752f.png You might be journeying through frozen realms where every breath freezes, and the next moment, you can find yourself in the vicinity of an active volcano, where the temperature becomes just one of the many formidable adversaries. That’s not all… Of course, our adventures won't be happening solely under the open sky. Prepare to explore enclosed locations – sometimes inspired by Japanese culture, other times deeply rooted in steampunk aesthetics, and occasionally shaped predominantly by nature. {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/a28a5dcbf6fb522ea8f79ee4026c315b70ad3589.png {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/1bacbea73ce47aadbd3b719b19a567c73e52388c.png It’s one of our ways to combat monotony and boredom. We want players to feel a constant sense of discovery, preventing the notion of going in circles. Be prepared for surprises hidden in the details, as we aim to deliver fresh experiences and encourage players to immerse themselves in this captivating world. Become a samurai! For those eager to stay up-to-date, we warmly invite you to follow us on social media and join our Discord server. It's where information surfaces first, and it's the hub for direct interaction with the community as we collaboratively shape the world of Shadow of the Road. {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/c4c51a7246abc6e04e52aef35cc833f2e90045aa.png Once again, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for supporting the game's development, maintaining a continuous interest in its production, and adding it to your wishlists. Your enthusiasm fuels our passion, and we're excited to continue this journey together. Thank you for being a part of Shadow of the Road! Cheers Another Angle Games Follow Shadow of the Road: 📍 Facebook 📍 Twitter 📍 Instagram https://store.steampowered.com/app/1173980/Shadow_of_the_Road/ What we've been working on lately… #3Dec 29, 2023 - Community Announcements{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/c336f1408a38dd25e04a6e7e26fbbb774a4895df.png Samurai! It's been a while since we last connected, but rest assured, our silence has been filled with the bustling excitement of the holiday season and intense dedication to making Shadow of the Road the best game it can be. We're thrilled to see your ongoing interest and are eager to share the fruits of our recent labors! Volcano Let's dive into what we've been working on lately - the Volcano. This fiery environment offers a stark contrast to the frosty landscapes we showcased previously. As you might expect, it's a level teeming with danger, yet irresistibly captivating. Every step must be calculated, and only the strongest samurai will survive there! Relax and contemplate… But fear not, Shadow of the Road isn't all peril and flames. We've also crafted spaces of serenity and peace. Here, time slows down, offering moments for contemplation, haiku writing, and training. Take a glimpse at one such relaxing spot in the footage below. What do you think? Do you prefer a darker ambiance or a more serene setting? Don't worry, we've got both covered in the game! Knock, knock! Focusing next on our interaction system, we've been fine-tuning this aspect extensively to enhance the game's realism and depth. Each interaction with the environment is designed to enrich your immersion. Check out how we've been experimenting with door interactions! Let us know what you think and which option works best! We’re on TikTok! As a reminder, we've been active on TikTok, bringing you exclusive content from Shadow of the Road. Our posts range from serious to comical - which, surprisingly, fits perfectly with the game's vibe. We invite you to visit us there - you might find yourself lingering longer than expected! ;) Join us! In the end… We want to express our gratitude for your support, feedback, and contributions to the game's development direction. To further involve you in the production process, we encourage you to join our Discord channel. Your responses to our questions can significantly influence Shadow of the Road's development. Come and be a part of our journey! {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/c4c51a7246abc6e04e52aef35cc833f2e90045aa.png Warm regards Another Angle Games Follow Shadow of the Road: 📍 Facebook 📍 Twitter 📍 Instagram https://store.steampowered.com/app/1173980/Shadow_of_the_Road/ Join our Discord!Oct 26, 2023 - Community Announcements{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/2dd1a58b7242af96eabbf53f49b28bc91ca5c450.png Samurai! We are thrilled to invite you to our Discord server, where you can connect with fellow warriors and stay updated on the development of Shadow of the Road – our game that promises an immersive story which will change the fate of the Empire. Why should you join? ⚔ Engage with a dynamic community of like-minded gamers; ⚔ Partake in thrilling events and get a chance to participate in upcoming beta tests; ⚔ Gain access to exclusive announcements, sneak peeks, and updates; ⚔ Influence the development of Shadow of the Road! Choose the direction! Recently, we've opened a new channel on our server where you, Samurai, can participate in game-related polls. Your responses will have a significant impact on the final outcome that will be revealed during the Shadow of the Road release. Your vote matters! How to become a part of our clan? It's as straightforward as the way of the sword! Simply follow this link to enter our server! Click the image below! {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/c4c51a7246abc6e04e52aef35cc833f2e90045aa.png Let's enhance Shadow of the Road together! Until we meet again Another Angle Games Follow Shadow of the Road: 📍 Facebook 📍 Twitter 📍 Instagram https://store.steampowered.com/app/1173980/Shadow_of_the_Road/What we've been working on lately… #2Oct 13, 2023 - Community Announcements{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/ac9c98442f49dcdbbba4cab65f0e6fd92ff34766.png Greetings, Samurai! We're back with another exciting peek into the world of Shadow of the Road! As always, we're thrilled to have you on this journey with us, and we've got some great updates to share that we believe will make your wait for the game more enjoyable. Today, we'd like to discuss the three primary aspects we are currently focusing on. Let's dive into the first one! Combat Animations As you've probably noticed, we've been hard at work improving the finer details of our combat system. They may seem like small things, but they have a significant impact on the outcome. The newest animations will add a new layer of immersion to the game, making combat feel more fluid and responsive. It's still a proof of concept, but there's a high likelihood that it will find its way into the game. Visual effects are impressive, right? Verticality What’s more, we’re enhancing verticality in combat! We’ve got some exciting ideas in the pipeline, including the ability to throw enemies at one another and more intricate environmental hazards. Imagine being able to use the surroundings to your advantage, like shoving an opponent onto a barricade or impaling them on spikes! The possibilities are endless, and we can't wait for you to explore them. Just take a look at the WIP version of this feature! Looks painful… Wideo #2 - Zepchnięcie na beczki Let it snow, let it snow… And here's a little treat for you, gamers. We're crafting the next landscape in our game and we're eager to show you a few screenshots to whet your appetite. The winter holidays are approaching quickly, so we already have snow on our minds. {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/8c826bf20b899d94d386f5b14a965698d7c729eb.png {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/852d3b04a087027b5f52c356c54074467f304f5c.png We haven't shown much of the winter environment yet, so this could be your first peek at the frosty challenges that you can expect. We've got some stunning visuals in store, and we can't wait for you to dive into this world. {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/0f9b70256770e0f628656efe59479b50c33573b6.png That's it for today! Our goal is simple - we want to make this game an unforgettable experience, and we're thrilled to have you along for the ride. Keep an eye out for future devlogs and, as always, feel free to share your thoughts and feedback with us. Your input is invaluable in shaping the game into something truly special. And if you want to stay up-to-date with everything and actively participate in the creation process, join our Discord server! {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/c4c51a7246abc6e04e52aef35cc833f2e90045aa.png Thank you for your unwavering support! Stay tuned for more exciting updates on Shadow of the Road… Cheers Another Angle Games Follow Shadow of the Road: 📍 Facebook 📍 Twitter 📍 Instagram https://store.steampowered.com/app/1173980/Shadow_of_the_Road/Let’s talk about the Initiative System…Sep 27, 2023 - Community Announcements{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/119bc4fd0ec7073497c09f23726bf5a6a9ef3753.png Samurai Warriors! Recently, we treated you to an interview with our sound magician, and today we're bringing you a devlog straight from the heart of our game development process! Have you ever heard of an initiative system? It's an incredibly vital component in many turn-based RPGs! And the situation is no different in Shadow of the Road, where it plays a fundamental role. In simple words - its primary task is to determine the order in which characters get to make their moves. Let us share a bit of the history of how this system has evolved in our game… In the past… At first, we had a very “XCOM-like” approach where players could make moves with all characters in any order (and multiple times within their turn, using available action/movement points). In other words, the player would switch between characters, take actions, end their turn, and after that the game would switch to AI which would act similarly. {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/e2e05ad642dfe6ab8058466a810637d1592fb13c.png We showcased this combat system at PAX in 2020. And while it served its purpose, we felt that our game needed something more… Something deeper! We needed a system that would allow players to anticipate enemy moves, analyze situations, and have full influence on what is happening on the battlefield! So now! The current iteration of the system draws its inspiration from samurai battles, where it's crucial to observe everything and make decisions that significantly impact the course of the clash. The core of this mechanic revolves around character initiative. All characters participating in the battle are sorted based on their initiative values and the one with the highest value starts the whole action. Default initiative values are predefined, but can change as the game develops. Several factors influence the status, such as an initiative penalty for taking damage and side effects. {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/1c290d04a129b29f061505642629f140dccdc40e.png By introducing this system, we were able to incorporate more combat mechanics that enhance its depth. The main innovation here is delayed attacks! These attacks are more effective, but carry a risk of failure. A delayed attack is carried out as a new element on the timeline. So the character initiating it cannot move and automatically ends their turn. If they are attacked before executing the attack, it will be interrupted. This system also operates in rounds, with each unit making one move per round. Unfortunately… Introduced changes also have some drawbacks that make this solution less than perfect. Notable issues include: ⚔️ Delaying attacks by a fixed value can lead to situations where nobody on the battlefield can counter or interrupt them. We attempted to solve this by delaying attacks based on factors like the number of characters, but this fix won’t be good enough. ⚔️ Time axis shifts are inconsistent. We couldn't find a solution that would all...Meet the Team - Sound Designer 🎶Sep 21, 2023 - Community Announcements{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/69a63b5edc3c88749dc0b8de4e6287d53ee32fad.png We've got a real treat for you today - an interview with our sound designer, Kostek Antonowicz (check out his Instagram)! Sound is of great importance to us, so we were looking for someone whose passion would allow us to translate it into the game. Are you curious about who's behind the magical audio in Shadow of the Road? No need to beat around the bush - allow us to introduce... Who are you? Hey, I'm Kostek, I came to Earth to make some noise. What are your responsibilities in the team working on Shadow of the Road? I am responsible for audio. I create sound designs and implement them - first into Wwise and later into Unity. Additionally, I collaborate with a musician to create interactive music. Which software do you use? I use game engines like Unity or Unreal, and sound middleware like Fmod or Wwise. For sound creation, I use Cubase and Ableton. How would you define “video game music”? Video game music is the primary carrier of emotions. It's a universal language that doesn't require translation, allowing creators to shape how players perceive the game world and gameplay at any moment. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ https://media.giphy.com/media/GMC6gi4AglqLf476wJ/giphy.gif Full video on Kostek's Instagram What role, in your opinion, does the music play in Shadow of the Road? The music in Shadow of the Road, in addition to fulfilling basic requirements, places a strong emphasis on interactivity. For example, it incorporates changes in feelings and character of the music based on dialogue choices. It adapts as you explore the game world or encounter danger, creating a dynamic and immersive musical experience. What guides you when creating the audio layer for Shadow of the Road? When creating audio for Shadow of the Road, my primary focus is on the concept of immersion. I want players to navigate the game world not only through their eyes, but also through their ears. Sometimes, while walking along the path, you might hear something that catches your attention, or you might get startled by a sound and decide that you're not ready to go in that direction. I have a deep appreciation for the ambient sounds of nature and previously nonexistent creatures in games, as they provide room for creativity and interpretation. I have the opportunity to work on all of this and more with Another Angle Games. What sets the sound in Shadow of the Road apart from other games? At a certain point, the audio in most games can be comparable. In Shadow of the Road, we placed a greater emphasis than usual on environmental sounds that allow for deeper immersion and the ability to differentiate areas. We are giving them a distinct audio character. Forests should feel mysterious, dense, and full of life, while other dimensions should sound demonic and ominous. The goal is to create a unique audio identity for each area. What is the most challenging aspect of your job? Finding the balance between individual sounds....Tactical World of Shadow of the RoadAug 11, 2023 - Community Announcements{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/4ca1fb2440b9b93a8dd6cfe731ca9521925da3a8.png Warriors! Hello again! In today's post we want to shed some light on the creative process behind Shadow of the Road and its evolution as a representative of the tactical RPG genre. We'd like to delve into the genesis of the idea, our approach towards the environment, and the significance of skills. So, without further ado, let’s see where it all started! Our passion for this genre runs deep… …From hours spent battling in turn-based strategies to the immersive worlds of games like Final Fantasy, X-COM, Unholy War, Front Mission, Temple of Elemental Evil, Etherlords, and many more. Years ago, we used to play together some of the finest representatives of the genre – for example, the Fallout series (especially Fallout: Tactics). One could say that the opportunity to create a world that would hold as much significance for players as in the titles we mentioned is almost like a dream come true. We’re sure that many of you could understand it very well! Moving on! Some time ago we mentioned the verticality of certain levels. It’s important, but that's not the only interesting aspect in the context of the environment! Soon you'll find special interactive zones that add depth to the gameplay and maximize immersion. {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/00fc87d03b93876adb1e5b91bce7b363d5c39249.png For example - imagine scenarios where you're ablaze and you can jump into the water to extinguish the flames, or have the ability to ignite oil for strategic advantage. Sounds great, huh? We want the environment to be a backdrop to the narrative events and a part of them at the same time. What about skills? Skills are a cornerstone of the tactical RPG genre, and it’s no different in our game. They're not just decorative – they shape the core of the gameplay. Our focus lies heavily on the tactical depth within them. Well, it’s safe to say that we have plenty of intriguing aspects planned, but we'll save those juicy details for future updates… ;) {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/63f106e1fedf2e538405502470c85e768de18c14.png Certainly, it's worth mentioning the Yokai system, which will be almost a fundamental aspect for us. Summoning them to add a new dimension to battles will be something unique in the realm of other tactical RPG games. The system might share some similarities with Guardian Forces from Final Fantasy VIII, but there will be many more differences than resemblances. We can't wait to present it to you - you’ll love it! More to come! Before we wrap up, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you for sticking with us and supporting the whole development process. Your active participation in our journey is invaluable, and your passion fuels our dedication to making Shadow of the Road the best it can be. To remain informed about our advancements in the game's environment and other components, we extend an invitation for you to connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and Discord. {STEAM_C...The Beautiful World of Shadow of the RoadJul 27, 2023 - Community Announcements{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/a9488f261184aadfedbac9b587c9f6c736bebe11.png Hello, Warriors! It's nice to be writing to you again! Firstly, we are grateful for your support and continuous feedback. We truly appreciate your patience as we worked through each step of the development process. We’re getting closer! Today we'll delve into a crucial aspect of Shadow of the Road - the environment. We're well aware of its significance in turn-based RPGs, and it's a paramount element in our game as well. Beautiful World As the game is set in Japan, during the fall of the Empire's feudal era in 1868, the surroundings are reminiscent of the 19th-century Land of the Rising Sun. To create an environment that truly captures it, we had to dig through loads of pics from back then. Luckily, some photos have survived the passage of time. We found pictures of rich people, villagers in their settlements, ports, markets, bridges, and even abandoned castles… But we didn't stop there – we also checked out artwork from earlier times, showing how they built temporary fortifications! {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/6a6ad83f4c753cb05ceb59b206a7a00ccc17a0c2.png {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/615cf46fc8b29065a72314d61cf80470797dcc62.png Source: oldphotosjapan.com And hey, we couldn't miss the opportunity to draw inspiration from legendary movies like Akira Kurosawa's "Ran" and the whole collection of "Rurouni Kenshin" movies by Keishi Otomo. Have you watched them? Don't expect a monotonous environment! Shadow of the Road will take you on a journey to diverse locations, ranging from underground cave systems to open meadows, from serene monasteries to dangerous forests. Each of them is very distinct from another. All offer diverse experience, opportunities, and atmosphere. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ https://media.giphy.com/media/OVl1S4DJioei83RKCZ/giphy.gif Keep in mind that the environment will influence the flow of combat. With such varied terrain, certain characters may gain advantage, and attacks that seem impossible in other settings, can suddenly be effortlessly executed. Adding to the immersion, some elements of the environment will be destructible, making every encounter more dynamic and engaging. Speaking of that - we wrote more about utilizing the terrain in combat in our previous devlog, so if you haven't read it yet - we encourage you to catch up! Seek and you shall find Moreover, we didn't want our world to feel empty, so you'll come across numerous collectibles along the way. These items will significantly impact your characters. Moreover, you will be able to find shrines, providing a boost to your abilities too. We believe that a true warrior must be vigilant, so keep your eyes wide open - not only to admire the beauty of the surrounding nature. We want to reward those who will stray from the beaten path while exploring the world of Shadow of the Road. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ https://media.giphy.com/media/9pktuHVxMLaYXMNcTE/giphy.gif Stay tuned! To stay up-to-date with our progress on the envi...What we've been working on lately...Jul 12, 2023 - Community Announcements{STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/6d254d25e9c0da636cb4a69caf6b620b95dce76c.png Warriors! It's great to be back and we are truly grateful for the warm reception of our previous devlog, which focused on the gore aspect of the game (by the way, if you haven't checked it out yet - here it is). Today, we would like to share some new exciting updates that we have been working on lately. Consider this as the first of many dev diaries to come in the future. We want you to know what is happening with the game, so you’ll be one of the first to hear about the latest milestones! Lighting Let’s start with something important! We have been experimenting with different lighting techniques to enhance the overall atmosphere of Shadow of the Road. We strive for global illumination to be believable and applicable to both characters and environments. We believe that the right lighting can help players truly immerse in the game's world and amplify the sense of danger lurking around every corner. {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/f08348c511486b6240a64ffcd107454491b3e21a.png {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/d915cc9064726a4300cf5eff8e6738932e241b01.png It's the work of the tiniest details, but worth every drop of sweat! Verticality Next, we want to give you a glimpse of something exciting. For example, take a look at one of the stages. What makes this encounter particularly interesting is… The abundance of ladders, adding a unique multi-level dimension to the fight! {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/1b645c3d5f228d3b8d859dcc1dfc7aa31ba08c71.png {STEAM_CLAN_IMAGE}/35994584/c31ff0e2e60a0c749a2ce7ad6f18015c713bf538.png Yes, fight! We must let you know that this is where you’ll find dangerous enemies, so you better watch out and get ready. Samurai must be strong, but also wise - remember to use the environment around you! Get ready for intense vertical combat! New skills Another interesting thing we want to introduce you to is a new skill called "Glacial Fangs". We won't reveal all the details just yet, but we can show you how spectacular this attack is in motion. Stay tuned for more updates, and believe us - you’ll be able to use many more thrilling skills in the game. Enemies will be terrified! Something extra… As a little surprise and a token of our gratitude for being with us, we would like to show you something exciting and truly satisfying. You see, during the development of Shadow of the Road, we've been having an absolute blast, and the fruits of our labor have seamlessly merged into captivating elements that breathe life into the very fabric of the game. BRIDGE VIDEO For example - let's take a moment to admire the way this bridge is generated. Trust us when we say, we can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of pride due to how incredible it looks! Till next time! Before we wrap up, we want to invite all of you to follow us on our social media platforms - Twitter, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram to stay up-to-date with the latest news and announcements. Above all, we highly encourage you...
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