Step back to the 1800s and use your detective skills to solve a classic murder mystery told in real-time
Category: News
Written by: Cindy Kyser on April 30, 2018
Developed by: Tequila Works
Published by: Game Trust
Non-VR Release Date: April 24, 2018
Original Release Date: October 10, 2017
Platforms: Windows, Xbox One, PS4
Tequila Works is high on my list of developers to watch, as two of their games remain on my personal favorites list. In mid-2017 they released Rime, which is a beautiful platform game with soaring music and a heartfelt story. Later in 2017, they collaborated with Cavalier Studios to release The Sexy Brutale which is a unique mystery adventure that lets you control time. I reviewed both Rime and The Sexy Brutale and gave them the highest praise.
Last year, I searched for more titles by Tequila Works. I found The Invisible Hours (released in October of 2017) but was disappointed to discover it was only available for those who have taken the VR plunge. Imagine my delight to discover that, as of April 24th, it has been released in a non-VR version. This game just hit the top of my wish list!
Tequila Works describes The Invisible Hours as “a complex murder mystery, in which players freely explore an intricate web of interwoven stories within a sprawling mansion to untangle the dark truth at its heart.” In the tradition of an Agatha Christie novel, you arrive at a mansion to find a murder and seven guests. Your task is to piece together clues and identify the killer.
The inventor Nikola Tesla is the victim and the game takes place at his sprawling estate in the late 1800s. Disgraced Swedish detective Gustaf Gustav is a guest who jumps on the chance to restore his reputation by solving the case. Most notable guests are inventor Thomas Edison and actress Sarah Bernhardt. Other guests include a blind butler, a convicted killer, a Vanderberg heir, and Tesla’s ex-assistant.
Tequila Works sought to create “a totally immersive cinematic experience.” The game is played from a 1st-person perspective but you, the player, are not a character in the story. Instead, you are an invisible presence and you are free to move within the landscape to listen and watch. The game progresses in real time but you can move the timeline ahead or back to explore different scenarios. I, for one, am looking forward to visiting the Tesla mansion!
More details about the mansion, the characters, and the game can be found at The Invisible Hours website.
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