Players Like...

❤ Branching Narrative and Choices

As the editor-in-chief of a news channel in the fictional nation of Novistan, players make consequential choices by approving or rejecting news articles presented to them at the start of each in-game day. These choices directly impact the unfolding narrative and the state of Novistan, leading to numerous possible paths and endings. Reviews consistently praise the depth and complexity of the branching storyline, noting that no two playthroughs are the same. Players often express surprise at how the ripple effects of their decisions shape the world and the lives of Novistan's citizens. For instance, one reviewer recounts how their choice to demonize immigrants led to increased security measures and protests in the city streets. Many reviewers highlight the moral ambiguity of the choices, explaining that there are rarely clear "good" or "bad" options. Instead, players must weigh various priorities and consequences, forcing them to grapple with the nuances of political and social issues. This creates a sense of genuine moral dilemma, as players navigate the competing interests of the government, corporate sponsors, their friends and family, and their own personal beliefs.

❤ Meaningful Consequences

As players walk through the streets of Novistan after each workday, they can directly observe the tangible effects of the news stories they've published. Reviewers describe seeing changes in the environment, such as increased security measures, protests, or even riots, depending on the narratives the player has pushed. Additionally, the player's relationships with the various characters they interact with are directly impacted by their editorial decisions, leading to shifting dynamics and emotional responses from these NPCs. Many players express a sense of investment in these characters, as they witness the ripple effects of their choices on the lives of people they've come to know. One reviewer recounts how their choice to support nationalized healthcare led to their co-worker's medical condition being treated, but also resulted in her becoming infertile due to long wait times. The game's ability to create this sense of personal investment and accountability is frequently cited as a strength, heightening the stakes and emotional weight of the player's decisions.

❤ Replayability and Emergent Narrative

The significant branching in the game's narrative, combined with the way choices carry over between playthroughs, contribute to the game's high replayability. As players progress, they may encounter references or nods to their previous actions, creating a sense of continuity and reinforcing the idea that the world of Novistan is persistent and reactive to the player's choices. This encourages players to experiment with different approaches, seeking out new paths and discovering the full breadth of the narrative possibilities. Reviewers appreciate the agency afforded to the player and the feeling of shaping the narrative through their decisions, rather than simply following a predetermined path.