Herald: An Interactive Period Drama - Book I & II (2017)

About the Game

Herald is a narrative-focused adventure game set in an alternate version of the 19th century, where the Western world has been consolidated into a single colonial empire known as the Protectorate. Players assume the role of Devan Rensburg, a man of mixed heritage serving as a steward aboard the merchant ship HLV Herald. Devan's responsibilities include maintaining order among the ship's crew and passengers by resolving daily conflicts and disputes, while navigating a complex social hierarchy defined by inequality and injustice.

Throughout the journey, players are tasked with uncovering a significant mystery surrounding the Herald's voyage. The game is divided into Book I and Book II, each providing approximately two hours of contained gameplay, totaling around four hours across both books. Future episodes, including Book III and Book IV, will continue Devan's story in episodic releases, introducing new challenges and narratives.

Key Features

• Branching Narrative: The story evolves based on player choices. You may choose to defend the oppressed or prioritize the interests of the elite, with every decision influencing relationships and outcomes.
• Exploration of the Herald: Examine the ship’s detailed environment, uncover hidden secrets, and interact with various areas of the vessel. Each space offers new opportunities for investigation and engagement.
• Complex Social Dynamics: The Herald reflects the societal structure of the 19th century, where every crew member and passenger harbors their own secrets. Characters often employ subtle persuasion to manipulate Devan, creating dilemmas about who to trust.
• Diverse Cast and Voice Acting: The game features thirteen voice actors bringing life to a wide range of characters, accompanied by animated portraits that enhance narrative immersion.
• Alternate Historical Setting: Set in 1857, the game portrays the Protectorate as a global power governed by an elected Lord Protector. The Protectorians view themselves as morally superior, prompting players to examine issues of race, class, and cultural tension within this alternate society.
• Challenging Themes: Herald confronts players with emotional and physical violence, suggestive content, and occasional strong language. It is suitable for audiences aged 12 and older, offering mature themes within a controlled narrative framework.

Herald offers a tightly woven story where the player’s choices shape both the social dynamics on board the ship and the unfolding mystery of the voyage. It is designed to engage players in ethical decisions, strategic problem-solving, and exploration of human behavior under pressure, all within the context of an intricately constructed alternate 19th-century world.

By combining rich character interactions, detailed settings, and a thought-provoking storyline, Herald: An Interactive Period Drama - Book I & II provides an immersive experience for players interested in historical fiction, ethical decision-making, and interactive storytelling. The game emphasizes the consequences of actions, highlighting how individual decisions impact the lives of those around Devan, and ultimately shaping the narrative’s outcome.

Herald’s gameplay and storytelling approach offer a reflective examination of societal hierarchies, personal morality, and cultural tension. Players are encouraged to explore every nook of the Herald, engage with a diverse set of characters, and make choices that test their judgment and empathy, creating a unique narrative experience for each playthrough.