Indie publishing label HOOK has announced a partnership with solo developer Shieldbearer Studios to release The Bloodline into Steam Early Access next month. The Bloodline is a truly free-form sandbox RPG that opens up the world to its players, inviting them to experiment with the game’s mechanics, setting and characters to shape their experience for their own unique playthrough.
Like all indie developers, I have a true, deep passion for gaming. Specifically, RPGs! Ever since I was little, I’ve had an obsession with anything fantasy. Lord of the Rings and the Elder Scrolls were my primary focus. I’d spend countless hours playing Morrowind, crafting spells and potions that would practically break the game. I’ve craved a game that would scratch that itch for years now, and I haven’t been able to find one that truly felt like a freeform sandbox RPG, so I set out to make one on my own! For the past 3 years, I’ve been hard at work making my first ever game.
Miles Whittaker, Founder and the Sole Developer for Shieldbearer Studios
Key Features of The Bloodline
- A vast world to explore! There are different biomes with distinctive flora & fauna filled with impressive landmarks: blooming towns, magnificent castles, mysterious lakes, dangerous dungeons… and much more.
- Follow questlines and help the people of Eudros, or roam the world freely at your own pace, allowing organic adventure opportunities to arise – reform bonds between kingdoms, construct your village, and prepare the world for the return of The Unforgiven.
- Join various guilds, hunt magical creatures, or become a bard at the local tavern – the world is yours to enjoy and experience how you desire. Nearly every action you do has a level associated with it. From jumping, climbing, and running to ragdolling, wall-running, or swimming.
- Craft gadgets and equipment, catch rare fish, cook exotic dishes, brew potions, transform yourself into a beast…this world is your playground.
- Plan your adventures by using your foresight – the ability to see events that will transpire in the near future. From meteor storms, goblin attacks, and even ghostly pirate ships!
- Define your own play style! With over 500 skills to unlock and hundreds of different weapons and equipment at your disposal, your character is truly your own. The choice is yours entirely.
The Bloodline will launch into Steam Early Access on October 5 and you can wishlist the game now. If you want to follow the game’s development, check out Shieldbearer’s TikTok and Twitter for more. You can also watch the announcement trailer below.
