During GDC 2024, A44, a developer based in New Zealand and known for their game Ashen released in 2018, showcased an updated glimpse of their upcoming action RPG, Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn. This game is said to fall somewhere between God of War and a more simplified version of the Soulslike genre, making it more accessible to players.
A44 currently consists of approximately 65 staff members, who have spent a considerable amount of time developing this game. The game’s initial setting draws inspiration from flintlock fantasy novels, with a captivating central concept of deities utilizing magic to battle armies of ordinary individuals equipped with guns from the Napoleonic era.
At the start of Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn, protagonist Nor Vanek is striving to seal the door of the ‘Great Below’ realm of death to prevent the undead from resurfacing. However, the plan goes awry and not only does the portal remain open, but the Gods have also been released into the world.
A44’s goal is to seamlessly combine melee and ranged gameplay in terms of gameplay. To achieve this, they have included crucial flintlock pistols that allow Nor Vanek to interrupt unblockable and unparryable break attacks from enemies. Additionally, players have access to powerful secondary weapons such as rifles and grenades.
The protagonist will also encounter heavily armored foes, some of whom may be carrying shields. However, these adversaries’ armor can be easily penetrated with the help of Nor Vanek’s secret weapon, the fox-like deity Enki. With Enki’s assistance, Nor Vanek can ‘prime’ enemies by filling a bar that will allow them to tear through the armor or execute swift and brutal kills with their melee weapon or pistol. As the adventure progresses, Enki can also provide support by distracting or stunning enemies, teleporting the player, and even acquiring the unique abilities of defeated boss characters. Additionally, Enki can be equipped to weaken enemies with poisons and other debuffs, and together with Nor Vanek, they can unleash a devastating Ultimate
A44’s main goal is to create a more accessible Soulslike game by prioritizing mobility. This is why the black powder double jump and double dodge are available at any time, without any cooldowns or associated resource costs. To earn reputation, the main currency in Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn, players can defeat enemies, explore new areas, and execute a variety of combat and traversal techniques, which will build up a multiplier.
Nevertheless, the multiplier and the extra reputation earned will be forfeited if you are hit. Nonetheless, you have the option to ‘store’ the reputation whenever you desire and reset the multiplier to zero. Reputation can be used to unlock new abilities in the three primary talent trees (Powder, Magic, and Steel), and it is also necessary, along with regular resources, to create enhancements for your equipment.
“As expected, there will be numerous boss battles in the game that have been described by the developers as both distinctive and demanding. The armor and weapon systems have been carefully crafted to offer players a variety of playstyles, with the added bonus of synergy bonuses from equipping full armor sets. The developers took inspiration from New Zealand’s Southern Island to create visually stunning regions in the world of Kian. The main story is estimated to take 12 to 15 hours to complete, while completing all tasks and quests will require around 20 hours.”
After the presentation, we spoke with Creative Director Simon Dasan to gather more information about Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn. The game is scheduled for release in the summer on PC (Steam, Epic Games Store), PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S|X. It will also be available on the Game Pass subscription service.
No, there is not one specific author. In fact, we consulted with several authors very early on during development. Just as we aimed to establish our brand in the Soulslike genre, we also aim to do the same in the flintlock fantasy genre setting.
In terms of the level design, you refer to it as being wide linear. However, as we observed earlier in this biome, there appears to be a larger open world map. Is there complete freedom to explore this specific biome, or does the game still steer you towards important locations?
As you progress through the main path, you will also have the opportunity to explore side content. Our game is best described as wide linear, rather than open world. There are specific zones that you can enter and explore.
Is it possible to journey to a previous zone?
You can, yes.
Are the encounters adjusted to match your current power level, or will there be optional content in Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn that you may need to revisit in order to successfully complete it?
Without a doubt, there are mini-boss encounters in the game that would be challenging for players to defeat on their first attempt. It is highly likely that you will need to return to them at a later time.
Can you explain the process of upgrading your equipment, including both your weapons and armor?
Throughout the game, you will encounter various resources that can be used to upgrade both your armor and weapons. As you progress, your ultimate goal will be to reunite your band of Coalition settlers. Each member of the group will enable you to enhance a specific aspect of your arsenal.
Does upgrading your arsenal introduce new abilities, or is it simply a boost in statistics?
The main purpose is to enhance the type of damage it inflicts, although it can also have a bit of both effects. For example, the axe we previously had was a burning axe that causes extra fire damage to foes. By upgrading it, you will also upgrade its fire damage capabilities.
For a typical axe, this would simply be an increase in damage.
What are the various types of weapons available in the game?
You will come across axes, swords, and hammers. The sword we were using has a quicker attack speed, whereas your hammers may have a slightly slower attack speed, but they are effective against armor.
This indicates that those who do not wish to fully utilize Enki can use a hammer to reduce the intensity of the activity.
Afterward, you’ll discover a wide selection of flintlock weapons. You can choose from various pistols, grenades, rifles, and other items such as mortars.
Do two-handed weapons or dual-wielding have any available options?
In Flintlock: The Siege Dawn, our main focus is on the ability to seamlessly alternate between using your pistol and your melee weapon.
Can players specialize in utilizing the pistol? What types of consumables or currencies must they consider for generating ammo?
As you can see in the bottom left corner, there are three gold dots. These represent your pistol ammo. You can replenish your pistol ammo by either resting at a lodestone or engaging in melee combat with your enemies. Four melee hits on an enemy will restore one powder charge, allowing you to maintain your momentum in battles. However, for items such as grenades and secondary weapons, you will need to rest at a lodestone to refill your ammo.
Do any of the abilities involve passive healing or siphoning health?
One can recover HP during combat by utilizing certain methods, including some of the armor we offer.
Are these skills able to be reset?
Indeed.
Will there be a New Game Plus mode available, allowing players to revisit the world of Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn with increased difficulty?
Right now, we currently offer support for a story mode in the game. This allows players to switch to an easier mode if they find the game too challenging. In the future, we hope to add support for a New Game option. Players can switch between story mode and the potential New Game option at any time.
Will I still be able to earn achievements or trophies if I enter the story mode?
Yes, it does.
If you complete an encounter in story mode and wish to obtain the trophy at a later time, can you replay a chapter or combat encounter within the same playthrough?
In my understanding, the process would require you to apply for a son.
Are there any side content quests that have a time limit, meaning that if you reach a certain chapter, there will be a cut-off point?
You are not limited to a specific time to pick up rumors. You can choose to revisit previous zones and pick up any rumors you may have missed. This side content may explore the backstories of Enki and Nor Vanek, or simply involve assisting members of the public.
Regarding performance, is there a specific resolution or frame rate goal for consoles?
It is likely that we will be able to provide you with more information regarding our targeted frame rate and other details. As you know, this is a pre-release version. We are still on track to release it this year, but we are currently in the final stages of development.
How close are you to completing Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn and feeling content?
We have reached content completion and are now in the final stages of preparing everything. Our focus is on balancing and polishing as much as we can before release.
Have you explored the possibility of implementing distinct performance and graphical quality settings for consoles?
Indeed, we do offer our support for that.
Is this the sole difficulty modifier that is accessible at the prison?
Indeed.
What types of accessibility options are currently offered?
Our game allows you to modify the colors of every element, which enables us to accommodate colorblind individuals and similar needs. As a small New Zealand-based studio, we strive to provide as much support as we can possibly offer.
Indeed.
Has the price point for Flintlock: The Siege of Dawn been determined yet, or is it still to be determined?
As of now, that remains to be determined. We aim to reveal further information within the next few months.
In terms of cosmetics, does this game have a system for transmogrification or layered armor?
The system works by having a separate armor system in place. Additionally, there is an option to purchase cosmetic under clothing for reputation, which is purely for aesthetic purposes.
However, would there not be a dye system or transmog system for the armor itself?
The armor itself cannot be bought, but you can choose from a variety of colors for the clothing.
Will there be any other styles, or will it solely be limited to just the colors?
There are additional styles that you will acquire throughout the game.
Do any of these rewards come from quests?
No, these are all connected to the hosts at the coffee shops.
Is there anything else you would like fans to know that we haven’t discussed in depth?
What I find most intriguing is the contrast between Ashen and Flintlock. Visually, these two games have distinct differences.
It is fascinating to see the numerous advancements we have incorporated into this new game, stemming from Ashen. While our combat and mobility have undoubtedly evolved, one aspect that has not been showcased in this demo is our caravan, a progression of the town system seen in Ashen.
We envision the concept of being able to bring your town with you and watch it grow over time. As you recruit more sappers for your army, each one will contribute something to its development.
We appreciate the time you have given us.
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