With “Fatherhood,” a new, emotionally charged adventure is coming soon to PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and PC. Polish developer Persis Play draws inspiration from “This War of Mine” and presents players with a 2.5D side-scrolling narrative that places them in the shoes of a father. It’s up to you to navigate yourself and your blind daughter, Asma, through the dangers of a war-torn environment.
You’ll need to survive by searching for resources while avoiding soldiers as much as possible. This won’t always be easy with a little girl by your side, who can panic if you stray too far from her. A hugging mechanic allows you to calm her down, so it’s clear that Fatherhood relies on some serious multitasking.
Fatherhood promises an emotional story and an immersive experience. Key decisions will affect both gameplay and the outcome of the story. Much like in This War of Mine, the game aims to present players with moral dilemmas. What sacrifices will you make to protect your daughter? Will you hold onto your humanity, or stop at nothing to ensure her safety?
The screenshots and trailer reveal a beautiful art style that will undoubtedly contribute to the game’s raw atmosphere. We see the father and daughter hiding behind a moving car to avoid spotlights and armed soldiers, navigating a minefield, and delivering another child to their father. This last scene appears to be part of a side story, which will offer additional insights into the impact of war.
Players may also have the option to go on the offensive at times. For instance, the protagonist is shown attacking a soldier with a piece of broken glass.
The HUD seems to monitor hunger and thirst levels for both the father and daughter. In terms of approach, Fatherhood not only resembles This War of Mine, but also reminds me of “Endling – Extinction is Forever.”
Founded in 2020, the indie developer wanted to create a game that focuses on civilians rather than soldiers. They’re dedicated to creating meaningful, impactful and memorable experiences. I’m definitely keeping my eye on this one.
