Entropy, a turn-based RPG currently available in early access, draws inspiration from classics like Final Fantasy 10 and 1, as well as Games Workshop's Mordheim, according to lead developer James Wragg. Wragg explained that the game's system for hiring and managing mercenaries, which provides a potentially infinite pool of party members, is directly tied to its permadeath mechanics.
Wragg stated that a key motivation behind the randomly generated mercenary system was a desire to incorporate permadeath, a feature he feels is often missing in traditional JRPGs. He noted that as players become more familiar with JRPGs, the challenge often diminishes. Wragg aimed to increase the stakes and intensity of the gameplay.
He referenced Mordheim's approach, where players invest heavily in their characters—giving them names, customizing profiles, and equipping them—only for them to be permanently lost. Wragg sought to replicate this sense of consequence in Entropy. However, he found that a standard JRPG party structure, where characters don't permanently die, made it difficult to achieve this.
The solution was to create a system where players could find and grow attached to unique party members, but also have an endless supply of new recruits to replace those who are lost. While the chance of a mercenary dying permanently is not exceedingly high due to an injury system that often results in severed limbs or status ailments instead of outright death, the risk is always present. This constant possibility, Wragg believes, generates a palpable sense of intensity in the game.
Wragg emphasized that skilled play can allow players to navigate Entropy without losing any characters. Nevertheless, the mere potential for permadeath adds a significant edge to the experience. He also touched upon the game's developer, Lovely Hellplace, having a penchant for side quests, suggesting a wealth of narrative content alongside the core mercenary system. Entropy is available on Steam, with a demo offered for free.