Publisher Owlcat Games and developer Emotion Spark Studio have shared some insights into the development of narrative RPG Rue Valley on the Human Can Opener Podcast. The project was praised by Disco Elysium creators Robert Kurvitz and Aleksander Rostov and aims to launch later this year. If you want to try it for yourself before then, a demo is available now on Steam.
Additionally, the developers have shared their insights into the recently concluded open alpha. Check out our preview to learn more!
Rue Valley started in 2020 with a team of four, drawing inspiration from Outer Wilds and Disco Elysium. The game features time-loop mechanic, where time progresses only through player interaction, and NPCs have their own mindsets that bring more life to the game. The personality system allows players to shape their character’s traits, ensuring each playthrough is unique.
According to the devs, a pivotal moment in development of the game occurred when Disco Elysium creators Robert Kurvitz, Aleksander Rostov, and Helen Hindpere visited Belgrade and played the demo. Their insights provided invaluable feedback that helped the developers to refine core elements of the game.
Rue Valley – Key Features:
- Personality system: You can be a cold-hearted loner who overthinks everything or a melodramatic loudmouth who always trusts their gut instinct.
- Store Your Memories: Important memories are stored in a graph, unlocking unique interactions around the Rue Valley Motel and new mindsets to help build out the main character.
- Uncover the Secrets of Rue Valley: An anomaly has trapped the area around the Motel in a time loop. Experiment with the main character’s actions each day until you have enough evidence to solve the mystery.
- 2D Parallax Art Style: Rue Valley has an instantly recognizable, visually appealing comic book aesthetic inspired by Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.
