Moon Studios, renowned for its emotionally charged Ori series, has taken a bold leap into the realm of isometric action role-playing games (ARPGs) with its latest project, No Rest for the Wicked. Unveiled at The Game Awards 2023, this game promises to deliver a unique blend of Moon Studios’ artistic finesse and a departure from their usual platformer style.
The transition from heartfelt platformers like Ori and the Blind Forest and Ori and the Will of the Wisps to the isometric ARPG genre marks a significant evolution for Moon Studios. No Rest for the Wicked retains the studio’s signature artistic touch, offering players a visually stunning world reminiscent of a painted canvas. However, the gameplay takes a sharp turn towards the fast-paced, action-packed style characteristic of the Diablo genre.
Set in the year 841 in the kingdom of Isola Sacra, the game unfolds against the backdrop of a tumultuous power transition following the death of the king. Political strife quickly erupts, escalating into conflict, while a devastating plague ravages the island nation, giving rise to grotesque, disease-ridden creatures.
No Rest for the Wicked introduces players to a world of grandeur, with expansive landscapes showcasing significant verticality and scale. The game features hidden treasures, monstrous adversaries, and a myriad of quests, ensuring that players are kept on their toes at all times. Combat is not a mindless button-mashing affair, as Moon Studios emphasizes the importance of practice, skill, and timing in navigating the intense action sequences.
Players have the option to brave the challenges alone or team up with friends in online co-op mode. Up to four players can join forces to battle the hordes of monsters and enemy armies, fostering collaboration to overcome obstacles. Alternatively, players can choose to split up the group and explore the richly detailed world simultaneously but alone, adding an extra layer of strategy and exploration to the gaming experience.
No Rest for the Wicked is set to be published by Private Division. The game is scheduled for an early access launch on PC in the first quarter of 2024, allowing players to get a taste of the adventure before the full release. The complete version will later become available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S.
For fans eager to delve deeper into the mysteries of Isola Sacra and the wicked challenges that lie ahead, a digital showcase titled “Wicked Inside” is scheduled for March 1. This event, to be streamed on YouTube and Twitch, promises to unveil more details, providing a sneak peek into the world of No Rest for the Wicked.
As Moon Studios diversifies its portfolio with No Rest for the Wicked, fans can anticipate a captivating journey into a visually stunning, action-packed world. The marriage of Moon Studios’ artistic prowess with the dynamic gameplay of the isometric ARPG genre is a testament to the studio’s versatility and commitment to delivering memorable gaming experiences. With the promise of cooperative gameplay, challenging combat, and a rich narrative, No Rest for the Wicked is poised to carve its own niche in the expansive realm of gaming.