Side Quests // 12.14.22

Cozy up with something new.

Hey folks!

It’s cold out for us northern-hemisphere folks, which means there’s more reason ever to cozy up with a cup of something warm and a new game to explore.

This week I’ve got just one recommendation, but it’s perfectly suited to a frosty indoor December evening - Roadwarden, from developer Moral Anxiety Studio and publisher Assemble Entertainment.

From the Steam page:

YOU ARE THE ROADWARDEN

A brave stranger putting your life on the line to make a difference in this grim fantasy world. While most people would never risk a solitary journey through the wilder parts of the land, you willingly accept the struggle. You guard travellers, connect isolated villages, support merchants, and repel attacking creatures, bandits, or even undead.

The game is a fusion of text-based RPG, isometric visual novel, and interactive puzzle game. It’s got no shortage of acclaim, earning an Overwhelmingly Positive rating with 854 reviews, which praise the writing, mystery, and attention to detail. The vibe I get from the whole thing is a kind of “enhanced fantasy novel“.

So if text-based RPGs or fantasy novels are your thing and you’re looking for something to brighten up the dark winter evenings, set aside some time to make a cup of hot chocolate and boot up Roadwarden.

We’ll be back soon with a new episode — we’re actually pulling from our Side Quests recommendations for this one — so enjoy your holiday and keep an eye out for that.

If you’re swept up in the giving spirit, give us a recommendation to someone you know that loves games - it really helps!