The shadows stir, and with them, so does our vision. We recently released a closed demo for ‘Harrowed World: Portents In Red’, our modern gothic vampire RPG, to a select group of testers, and I wanted to take a moment to reflect, and share what’s next.
A Look at the Closed Demo
Good news! The feedback from the closed demo has been overwhelmingly positive. Every participant left as excited, or more so, for the full game. That’s the kind of response that keeps the (definitely human) blood pumping in our veins, drives us forward, and reassures us that we’re on the right path. Throughout this article, you’ll find a few short clips from the demo, offering you a glimpse of what’s to come.
What’s Next?
The road ahead is long, but the path is clear. While there’s still work to be done, much is already in motion behind the scenes, we’re simply not ready to pull back the curtain just yet. That said, I want to share our current priorities and the steps we’re taking to bring Harrowed World to unlife.
Key vampire NPCs are already being developed, waiting for their moment in the moonlight, alongside human pedestrians who will populate the streets. These figures will set the tone for the world, giving it the depth and presence it needs. At the same time, the dialogue system is being refined to ensure every interaction feels immersive and meaningful.
The feeding system, the dark heart of any vampire experience, is also taking shape, weaving together mechanics that will make each hunt feel both exhilarating and consequential. The task system, our unique approach to what’s traditionally called quests, is also in the works alongside the reputation and morality mechanics, ensuring that every action leaves a lasting mark on the world.
Player models and character creation are also in progress, allowing for deep customisation of your vampire’s appearance and attire. Combat and vampiric abilities are evolving alongside this, sharpening the tools you’ll wield to survive and thrive in the shadows.
The main storyline is mapped out, with only finer details left to refine. As development continues, plans will shift, and new ideas will undoubtedly emerge. But by keeping our focus sharp and breaking things into manageable steps, we are steadily shaping the game we envisioned.
How Many Developers Are There?
Right now, the development team consists of myself and one other developer. This may expand in the future as the project grows.
We also work closely with a composer, though they are not officially part of the core development team.
Remember, this is an indie game, not a AAA production. We’re a small team, but we’re dedicated to bringing this vision to life, but at some point, we intend to expand the development team to help carry the weight of this ambitious project.
When Will ‘Harrowed World: Portents In Red’ Release?
We won’t set a release date until we have a realistic idea of when the game will be complete. To do otherwise would be to write fate in blood, only to see it washed away, and that is not our way.
We will be open and honest. If things take longer than expected, we’ll tell you. If plans shift, we’ll explain why. Transparency matters, and we won’t make empty promises.
What About Kickstarter?
A Kickstarter campaign has always been an option, but recent shifts may have made it more of a necessity than a possibility.
We have no solid plans yet, but I’m researching both successful and failed campaigns to ensure that, if we go down this route, we do it right. If we take this step, it will be with clear goals, a solid foundation, and a commitment to delivering.
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The shadows are deepening, and the pieces are falling into place. The night is still young, and there’s much more to come.
– Alex Burton
Owner of Pennyvale Media.
Creator of Harrowed World.
Project Lead and Writer on Portents In Red.
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