Paradox Studios is venturing into new territory with Afterworld, a grand strategy game that incorporates significant survival-RPG elements. Set approximately 100 years after a catastrophic event known as "The Fall," the game emphasizes lore-building and player-driven narratives in a way that distinguishes it from Paradox's more historically focused titles.
Unlike traditional grand strategy games where players often step into established historical roles, Afterworld places players in the position of emergent leaders. The game begins with players leading a small group of survivors, perhaps emerging from a vault, with immediate challenges such as dwindling resources or impending disasters. The initial choices presented at the start of a campaign are less critical than the subsequent decisions made as the player navigates the harsh post-apocalyptic landscape. This approach encourages players to discover the game's mechanics organically as they explore the world and uncover its fragmented stories.
Players will manage bands of people, each with unique belief systems and leaders, who can be allies, enemies, or mercenaries. Integration of other groups can be achieved through diplomacy, shared values, or conquest. A core mechanic involves managing the morality and ethical code of one's own band, with early campaign decisions potentially being overridden by evolving circumstances and new challenges. The game moves beyond traditional nation-states, focusing on smaller, more adaptable tribal or band structures.
Instead of a conventional technology tree, Afterworld features an "Idea Tree" that unlocks knowledge through exploration and the clustering of specific concepts. These choices shape the identity of the player's faction, allowing them to evolve into pacifistic herders, brutal cannibals, or a dedicated cult. Players must balance their chosen path with the need for survival, making difficult choices that could impact their leadership and the loyalty of their followers. Revolts can occur if the population faces starvation, death, or neglect.
Survival is the primary objective, with conquest available as a mid-to-late game goal. Procedurally generated disasters ensure that new areas may be irradiated, scavenged, or populated by warring tribes, necessitating a nomadic playstyle. While permanent settlements are possible, the immediate focus is on securing food and resources. The world itself is a key element, with players discovering lore fragments, ruined cities that can be reclaimed, and remnants of advanced, science-fiction-like ancient technology.
Afterworld also features powerful non-player entities known as Ancients, who are warlords and religious figures. Players can choose to appease or anger these beings, or even attempt a coup if they have sufficient support. In contrast to other grand strategy titles where players might align with established powers, Afterworld consistently positions the player as an underdog, emphasizing that the world progresses independently of their actions.
Victory conditions are survival-oriented, drawing comparisons to games like Frostpunk. Players might choose to fortify their initial safe zone, conquer an Ancient and claim their territory, or develop advanced technology to escape the planet. The game allows for a flexible definition of survival, enabling players to pursue their own ultimate goals. Afterworld is slated for release on PC, though a specific launch date has not yet been announced. 
