From Children of Morta to Moonlighter, 11 bit studios has had an interesting selection of published games and this latest announcement is no different. From the 16-person team at Odd Meter, INDIKA is a debut narrative-driven adventure set in a parallel 19th-century Russia.
In INDIKA, players assume the role of the titular nun, Indika, embarking on a mind-bending journey to explore the duality of good and evil and the understanding that nothing is absolute. At its core, INDIKA is a third-person perspective adventure game, blending exploration with environmental puzzles and a touch of platforming. However, steeped in themes of sin, sorrow, and moral dilemmas, INDIKA transcends traditional gaming, resembling an art-house film that challenges societal norms rather than offering simple amusement.
This partnership was in place before Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine and the war put both the developer and publisher, along with millions of others, in a tough spot. Although previously based out of Russia, the Odd Meter team is now located in Kazakhstan, where they are currently developing INDIKA.
“Even before our country started the war, we walked a fine line working with topics that can get someone criminal prosecution in Russia. After February 24, things were complicated even further as staying in Russia became both physically scary and, more importantly, morally difficult, so we decided to leave for another country. Nowadays, it has become especially obvious how relevant the topics raised in our game are. Many problems of today’s Russia lie in the socio-political infantilism that has been hammered into its citizens over the centuries: humility, obedience, and patience are the main virtues imposed by our orthodox culture. So it’s not surprising that institutions such as the Russian Orthodox Church have recently become one of the primary weapons of propaganda, calling on parishioners to die for their homeland, and preaching a monstrous indifference to one’s own and other people’s lives.”
Dmitry Svetlow, Game Director and Founder at Odd Meter
INDIKA is headed for a launch in 2024 for consoles and PC. As is in character for 11 bit studios, part of the revenue from the game will be donated to help children affected by the war in Ukraine. You can watch the INDIKA announcement trailer below.
