Years ago I wrote a piece about what I presumptuously defined as the "emerging" subgenre of city games that respond to the climate crisis, with its attendant catastrophes of unchecked capitalism an...
Read Full Article »As We Descend burrows beneath the other Frostpunk-likes with ornate card tactics and writing
Discussion Points
- The evolution of city games in response to climate crisis and its implications on the gaming industry.r
- The blurring of lines between fantasy and reality in modern games, particularly in the context of catastrophe and capitalism.r
- The role of indie games like As We Descend in subverting traditional apocalypse narratives.
Summary
The city game genre has long been a reflection of our societal anxieties, but today's games seem to be taking a darker turn. Modern titles often shy away from direct confrontation with the issues, instead opting for more fantastical and avoidant approaches.
This shift raises concerns about the industry's response to real-world crises.On one hand, the proliferation of apocalypse fantasies can be seen as a reflection of our collective fears and anxieties. The gaming industry's ability to tap into these emotions is a double-edged sword – while it may provide a cathartic release, it also perpetuates a cycle of fear and desensitization.
However, there are glimmers of hope in the indie scene, where games like As We Descend are pushing boundaries and subverting traditional narratives. By combining elements of roguelike deckbuilding with dystopian tales, these titles offer a more nuanced and thought-provoking experience that challenges players to confront the consequences of their actions.