The RPG genre has taken many forms over the long history of the video game industry. From the world of first-person shooters to the expansive MMO genre, RPGs are so expansive that almost every gamer can say they’ve played one at least once. One of the most classic kinds of RPG is the isometric RPG, pioneered byfranchises likeDiablo. The genre hassomewhatfallen off in popularity since its rise in the 90s, but there are still some developers that hold on to what made the isometric RPG so popular to begin with. Dark Crystal Games is one such developer, and its new titleEncasedlooks to give gamers an all-new isometric experience.
As the technology of the video game industry has evolved, classic RPGs have gradually fallen into a more niche audience. There are standout releases from time to time, with one of the most notable being the roguelikeHades.Encasedappears to play to both sides of the isometric RPG fanbase, by providing an experience similar to classic titles of yesteryear, while also staking its own claim in the genre. Game Rant attended a pre-show held byKoch Mediaregarding its new Prime Matter publishing label, where the inspirations and motivations ofEncasedwere laid out.
RELATED:Why Deep Silver and Koch Media Are Smart for Keeping Fan Expectations in Check
The Classic Origins Of Encased
When looking at the style and gameplay ofEncased, it’s clear that a lot of inspirations were taken fromthe originalFalloutgames. Before the franchise was known for being one of the most immersive first/third-person RPGs in the industry,Falloutwas known for taking players through vaults in an isometric format. The essence of that isometric gameplay is clear inEncased, as players get a perspective that not only follows their character, but allows them to view the whole world around them.
The tone and theming ofEncasedalso takes notes from theFalloutseries as a whole. The game follows analternate historywhere a mysterious dome was discovered in 1970s America, and technology is significantly more advanced. This echoes the same story structure of much of theFalloutgames, where the vaults contain their own mysteries for players to discover. It’s a tried narrative at this point, butEncasedseems to have freshened it up enough to where it shouldn’t seem stale for players that have played similar games before.
WithEncasedtaking an approach that’s seldom seen from new IPs nowadays, isometric RPG fans could be in for a pleasant surprise with the game. The persistence ofDiabloand surprise hits likeHadeshave shown that there’s still a decent market for games of this style, so hopefullyEncasedwill fall on similar success. With the support of the newly established Prime Matter publishing label on its side,Encasedjust might be an isometric RPG to watch out for.
Encasedreleases in September for PC.
MORE:E3 2021 - Schedule, Where to Watch, Everything Announced, and More
