The first challenge in playing Peripeteia is figuring out how to pronounce its name.

A Gaming Renaissance

It feels like we’re experiencing a renaissance for challenging games. Titles like Stalker 2 and Kingdom Come are on the horizon, and the gaming community is eager for immersive experiences.

Among these, I discovered Peripeteia, a cyberpunk immersive sim set in an alternate reality Poland asking the intriguing question: What if Jucika had a gun? Its demo isn’t classified as part of Next Fest, but I strongly recommend trying it anyway. The game launched into early access last week, and I’m excited to see its evolution.

Game Experience

Peripeteia uniquely blends elements from Stalker and Deus Ex. You play as Marie, waking up in a warehouse, devoid of memories but equipped with mechanical augmentations. A character in the game is unhelpful and primarily irritated that he cannot harvest you for parts.

The game has vast, cavernous environments reminiscent of early Unreal Engine designs, overflowing with atmosphere. You will encounter gas-masked soldiers wielding old weaponry and may even find solace in the bar where the USSR’s National Anthem plays on loop.

A Unique Mission

You aren’t just wandering—you are tasked with stealing a lightbulb from a local planetarium. But reaching your objective isn’t straightforward; the landscape of Peripeteian Poland is convoluted. Expect to navigate rooftops and balconies that deviate from the typical game design, requiring a keen eye for possibly traversable paths.

I had multiple deaths trying to reach the planetarium, all while being nudged by Filemon, who offers you enhancements for your journey. The quest is filled with obstacles that challenge your gaming instincts.

Politics and Challenges

Upon arrival, you face an even graver challenge: infiltrating a government building filled with subculturalists who have a strong disdain for the neighboring authority. Success involves stealth and clever tactics, leading to the ultimate disappointment of getting shot due to overconfidence.

Conclusion

Peripeteia provides a refreshing and chaotic adventure, making it a must-play during its early access phase. I am eager to see how the developers at Ninth Exodus will further develop this innovative game. Don’t miss the chance to explore its demo!