In the grim world of Entropy, a new turn-based RPG from Lovely Hellplace, things are rarely what they seem. Just an hour into the game, I found myself witnessing a bizarre scene: three seemingly random characters intensely questioning a severed head. Was it a demon? Perhaps. But in Entropy, morality is as murky as the water you’re likely to drink.
A World Drenched in Decay
Entropy draws clear inspiration from classic Final Fantasy titles, with its overworld map and (thankfully infrequent) random encounters. However, this nostalgic framework is immediately twisted into something far more unsettling. The landscape is a decaying tapestry of PS1-era architecture slowly being consumed by a vast mycelial network. Towering toadstools loom over crumbling castle walls, creating an atmosphere that’s both beautiful and deeply disturbing.
Even the seemingly benign elements are tainted. Save shrines feel toxic, innkeepers look perpetually exhausted, and everything seems to be on the verge of collapse. This pervasive sense of decay is what truly sets Entropy apart.
Meet the Gargoyles
The characters you encounter in Entropy are far from heroic archetypes. They’re a motley crew of mercenaries, refugees, and generally unreliable individuals – cowards and failures clinging to survival. Their designs further emphasize this sense of degradation, with stained eyes, jagged teeth, and massive hands clutching at salvaged weapons. The portrait art is particularly striking; one early-game character, a fallen guard missing half his torso, stares calmly over a horrifying expanse of ribs and muscle. It’s an incredible artistic investment for a character destined to die relatively quickly, but it perfectly establishes the game’s tone.
Turn-Based Combat with a Twist
The combat in Entropy is familiar turn-based fare: melee fighters in the front row, ranged attackers and spellcasters in the rear. A turn order bar clearly indicates who’s next to act, and powerful abilities can delay a character’s turn. Status effects like stun and poison are present, and you can target specific limbs to cripple your enemies. Some foes wear armor that requires Piercing attacks or Blunt weapons to break through. While the combat isn’t revolutionary, it’s solid and engaging enough to keep you occupied between moments of awe-inspiring art direction.
A Troubadour in a Broken World
You play as a wandering troubadour, far from home and struggling to make ends meet. The game cleverly integrates this narrative element into the character creation process, framing it as an attempt to remember your lines while hungover. Even enemies quote Shakespeare, adding another layer of theatrical flair. Dialogue is sparse but evocative, providing just enough context to pique your interest without overwhelming you with exposition.
Entropy is shaping up to be a truly unique experience. If you’re looking for a turn-based RPG that dares to be different, check out the demo via Steam and prepare for the early access release on August 18th. You might even find yourself wanting to interact with that severed head – just be prepared for what it might have to say.
Source: Rock Paper Shotgun
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