Conscript is a game that should be on any gamer’s must-play list in 2024. Developed by solo developer Jordan Mochi, this indie game stands out as one of the best releases of the year. Inspired by the horrors of World War I, Conscript offers a unique and challenging experience that will keep players engaged from start to finish.
Mochi’s dedication to creating Conscript is truly inspiring. With no prior coding experience, he spent six years crafting this game, showcasing that with time, passion, and dedication, anything is possible. The result is a game that rivals even the best WW1-themed releases, such as Valiant Hearts, with its gripping storyline and immersive gameplay.
In Conscript, players take on the role of a French soldier searching for his missing brother amidst the chaos of the Battle of Verdun. The game’s story is told through interactions with fellow soldiers, posters, notes, and flashbacks, adding depth to the overall experience. However, the real focus of Conscript lies in its exploration, puzzle-solving, and intense action sequences.
Drawing inspiration from classic survival horror games like Resident Evil, Conscript features a graded completion system, limited inventory management, typewriter-based save points, and a merchant for buying and upgrading weapons. The game’s dark and gritty aesthetic, reminiscent of the PS1 era, adds to the overall atmosphere of dread and tension.
While Conscript may start off a bit shaky with its lack of hand-holding and challenging gameplay mechanics, once players get the hang of its unique approach, they will find themselves immersed in its haunting interpretation of trench warfare. The game’s emphasis on resource management, environmental hazards, and strategic combat adds layers of depth and complexity to the overall experience.
Despite its occasional difficulty spikes and dark, claustrophobic environments, Conscript is a game that rewards patience and perseverance. The game’s level design is a testament to Mochi’s attention to detail and dedication to creating a truly immersive world for players to explore.
Overall, Conscript is a feat of indie gaming that deserves recognition. With its engaging storyline, challenging gameplay, and atmospheric setting, it stands out as one of the top games of the year. Whether you’re a fan of survival horror games or historical narratives, Conscript is a must-play title that will leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to venture into its dark and haunting world.