Antioch: Scarlet Bay is an online cooperative narrative adventure. Play as two detectives working together to solve a murder in the shadowy city of Antioch. Wander in a city filled with characters with their own agendas and attitudes, all your decisions change the story and lead to multi endings.
Players take on the roles of two detectives working together to solve a murder in the fictional city of Antioch. The game features a unique co-op experience where players make decisions together, with both participants influencing the direction of the story.
Players can freely explore the city, interacting with various characters to uncover clues and leads. They choose where to go, who to interview, and what to say, with their choices having meaningful consequences that shape the overall experience and lead to multiple possible endings.
The narrative features a branching structure with numerous endings depending on the players' decisions throughout the investigation. Replayability is encouraged, as making different choices can uncover alternative storylines and reach varying conclusions to the case.
A key aspect of the gameplay is the relationship and dynamic between the two playable detectives. As players work together to solve the mystery, they need to communicate, collaborate, and potentially disagree with each other, which can lead to unique interactions and character development.
Players describe the city of Antioch as a dark, atmospheric, and well-realized setting that contributes to the overall noir-inspired detective experience. The soundtrack and visual presentation also play a significant role in establishing the game's tone and ambiance.
While the cooperative nature and open-ended investigation are generally praised, some players have noted that the lack of a comprehensive in-game guide or way to track information gathered can be challenging. Additionally, the quality of the English translation has been mentioned as a minor issue that can sometimes hinder the overall experience.