In the world of gaming, it’s always refreshing to see innovation being applied to familiar concepts, and developer Tomas Sala’s latest project, Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles, exemplifies this spirit. Following his BAFTA-nominated title, The Falconeer, Sala embarks on an entirely different venture, delving into the realm of city-building. Set in the same universe as its predecessor, Bulwark invites players to construct fortified settlements in the rugged landscapes of Ursee. The game challenges traditional city-building norms, emphasizing verticality and exploration in a world teeming with challenges. Combines elements of sandbox building, resource management, and faction dynamics, the game promises a truly distinctive gaming experience.
What We Know
Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles takes players on another journey through the world of Ursee, this time blending elements of sandbox building, exploration, and resource management. Set in the same universe as The Falconeer, the game challenges players to become architects of their own destiny, constructing fortified settlements amidst the rugged island-based landscapes of Ursee. Unlike conventional city builders, Bulwark is all about verticality, allowing players to create impressive cliffside bases with relative ease.
The game introduces three primary resources: wood, stone, and metal, and employs a unique resource management system. Players can explore the expansive world of Ursee using a versatile surveyor airship, uncovering hidden islands and valuable resources upon your journeys. Faction dynamics play a pivotal role as well, with five main factions vying for power and influence. Interactions with factions can shape the political landscape, presenting both challenges and opportunities. The game also features random world events, adding an element of unpredictability to gameplay. The stunning visuals, intricate architectural designs, and atmospheric soundtrack combine to create an audiovisually striking gaming experience as well.
What We Saw
During Gamescom, developer Tomas Sala provided us with an extensive walkthrough of the core mechanics of Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles. He also expanded on his philosophy towards game development, embracing mechanics and solutions that move away from the mainstream. Subsequently, we dove into the demo that’s available on Steam, offering us a hands-on experience with the game’s innovative building and exploration mechanics as well.
What We Thought
Tomas Sala’s passion and dedication to Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles is palpable, both when you hear him speaking about the project and when playing the game itself. This is essentially a solo development project, but it showcases a level of creativity and skill that commands respect. While the initial learning curve for the unique building system and its control scheme may require some getting used to, once mastered, it empowers players to quickly create breathtaking cliffside settlements.
Sala is also using an ‘evolving demo concept’ for the game, which is a commendable approach, providing players with the chance to witness the game’s development journey and actively contribute to its evolution. A bit like Early Access, but without having to pay to jump in. The faction dynamics and political intricacies add depth and complexity, ensuring that each playthrough offers a fresh and somewhat unpredictable experience. The combat system and learning curve may present challenges, but the game’s innovative mechanics, captivating visuals, and immersive soundtrack are looking to make this one a standout entry in the sandbox-building genre. Bulwark: Falconeer Chronicles is one to watch for those seeking a game that encourages creativity, rewards exploration, and immerses players in a beautifully crafted world with a gameplay experience that dared to stray from the norm.
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