Master the Warzone: Arcadian Atlas Dev Unveils Ingenious Strategy for Class Selection and Intense Combat

Highlights

One of the standout features of the game is its intricate class system, which consists of four core classes that can evolve into one of two advanced classes, resulting in a diverse selection of 12 unique classes. Furthermore, each class offers multiple skill trees that allow players to further customize and differentiate their characters.

Arcadian Atlas features a intricate and diverse combat system, where elements such as elevation, environmental hazards, and class abilities play a significant role in shaping strategies. The game incorporates traps, checkpoints, and diverse win conditions to enhance the depth of the battles. As the resurgence of tactical RPGs gains momentum in 2022, Arcadian Atlas stands out as a contemporary interpretation, drawing inspiration from renowned TRPG classics like Final Fantasy Tactics and Tactics Ogre.

Arcadian Atlas embodies the essence of the genre by incorporating familiar elements and aesthetics, but it also stands out as a significant milestone in the resurgence of renaissance TRPGs. While it draws inspiration from traditional TRPG elements like strategic battle grids and class systems, it goes above and beyond by incorporating unexpected influences and innovative ideas to establish its own distinct identity. In a recent interview with Game Rant, Taylor Bair from Twin Otter Studios provided insight into the game's unique mechanics and history. Particularly noteworthy is the game's class system, which Bair delved into with meticulous explanation.

There are four core classes in our strategic frameworks:

the long-range magic class. Each core class has the opportunity to advance to one of two advanced classes as they level up, resulting in a total of 12 classes. For example, the Cavalier can later choose to promote to either the Ronin or Inquisitor class, both of which have their own unique and powerful strategic philosophies.

The classes in the Tactical RPG can be customized even further, according to Bair. In addition, each of the 12 classes offers multiple skill trees to provide unique characteristics to each unit. Despite having the same class, two Inquisitors can have very distinct capabilities in practice. For example, Warmancers can specialize in different elemental attacks like Fire and Ice. Fire Warmancers can slow enemies, while Ice Warmancers can deal damage over time.

This versatility of classes plays a significant role in combat, allowing nimbler units to surround enemies and slower units to deliver heavy hits. These factors are just one aspect of the complex combat system of Arcadian Atlas, according to Bair. The combat system includes laying traps, controlling checkpoints, and various environmental hazards. Bair shared some in-game examples to highlight the intricate nature of encounters.

Strategy in Arcadia is like a multi-layered playground. In the battlefield layer, you need to consider the elevation, navigate through water that slows you down, and avoid the hazardous wastelands. On the class layer, there are units that are powerful but slower in surrounding enemies, while nimble units may not take down a target in one turn but can easily scale cliffs for a surprise attack from behind. On the skill level, you can set traps to block enemy paths or choose to risk your safety by unleashing a rage and dealing massive damage for a limited number of turns. Moreover, the layers of strategy can change based on the win conditions for a fight. It's not always about brute force. Sometimes, when the odds are overwhelming, victory means escaping an ambush alive.

The complexity required a more advanced system than the one Atlas was initially prototyped on. Using RPG Maker brought about challenges for Arcadian Atlas since the software is not designed to support tactical RPG-styled combat. Although it is possible, using Unity to develop the game allowed for the implementation of these features in a game engine that was specifically designed for it.

"RPG Maker served as a great tool for prototyping the concept, but it lacked the robustness required to support the game we desired to create. By utilizing Unity, we were able to construct intricate battle systems that could accommodate the placement of persistent traps that inflict burning, poisoning, or shocking effects on enemies that step on them. It also allowed for the incorporation of extensive skill trees and meticulously scripted scenes to unfold the dramatic story of Arcadia through countless custom animations. Making this switch enabled Arcadian Atlas to align perfectly with our original vision and more – we couldn't be happier with the decision."

Arcadian Atlas is not the only one in this. Serenity Forge, the publisher of Atlas, also collaborated with the developer of LISA: Definitive Edition to enhance the game from being RPG Maker-based to Unity.

When it comes to favorite classes, Bair is torn between the attention-grabbing Druid, known for their area-based abilities, and the innovative Shaman, who has the power to resurrect fallen units as undead with their unique skill, Unholy Revival. Additionally, with the availability of specialized skill trees, players can further customize these classes to suit their preferences.

Bair expressed immense satisfaction in developing distinct skills for each class, incorporating relevant and useful themes that transcend levels.

Arcadian Atlas will be available on Steam starting from July 27.