ATOM RPG is a post-apocalyptic indie game, inspired by classic CRPGs: Fallout, Wasteland, Deus Ex, Baldur's Gate and many others.
Players can build their ideal post-apocalyptic hero by allocating points across attributes like Strength, Endurance, Agility, and Intellect. These impact skills, combat abilities, and dialogue options. As players level up, they can select from a wide array of perks that further specialize their character, whether as a stealthy sniper, smooth-talking negotiator, or heavily-armored tank. This deep character customization allows for diverse playstyles.
The game features a granular skill system, with skills like Small Guns, Lockpicking, Barter, and Persuasion that players can level up. Investing in particular skills unlocks new dialogue options, abilities, and ways to interact with the world. Many quests and interactions require meeting specific skill thresholds, rewarding players for focusing on and mastering certain areas.
Combat takes place on a grid-based, turn-based system. Players must carefully manage action points to effectively utilize weapons, skills, and items. The combat has significant tactical depth, as players must consider positioning, weapon type, and enemy weaknesses to overcome challenging foes. The sense of progression is strong, as players start weak but gradually acquire better gear and abilities.
The game incorporates light survival elements, requiring players to manage their character's hunger, thirst, and radiation levels. Scavenging for food, water, and medications is essential to keep the character healthy. Ammunition scarcity also forces players to thoughtfully approach combat encounters, adding tension and reinforcing the harsh post-apocalyptic setting.
The open world features numerous side quests and optional activities that can often be resolved in multiple ways, based on the player's skills, abilities, and choices. This encourages experimentation and replayability, as players can tackle problems from different angles and observe the narrative impact of their decisions.