Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical is a niche game that will be avoided like the plague. However, other than its unattractive title, I fell for this indie game’s increasingly bizarre charms. Yet, I admit, I didn’t fancy playing this game. Not only did the title put me off, but I didn’t fancy an all-singing and all-dancing affair. However, I’m happy to admit that my first impressions were unbelievably naïve, and I loved every moment.
This narrative-driven adventure title was developed by Summerfall Studios and published by Humble Games. What’s more, if you love musicals and visual novels, this loud, striking, and endearing experience will capture your attention from the opening moments. As such, once I got over my unnecessarily biased mindset, I adored the strange story and the modern take on Greek mythology.
Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical tells a fantasy tale with a sinister twist.
I love a good dramatic story. Accordingly, whenever I get my teeth into a decent book or visual novel, I struggle to put it down. Luckily for me, Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical has enough depth and drama to get under your skin. What’s more, the colourful characters and many plot twists will keep you entertained even if the core gameplay remains the same throughout.
You play the part of Grace. She is a college dropout who wishes to make something of her life. Yet, she didn’t expect something to be as wild and outlandish as what develops in the plot. When she is granted the power of a Muse, her world is turned upside down. Accused of her predecessors’ murder, Grace must clear her name and find out who the perpetrator is. However, with time ticking away, she must make tough decisions and decide who to trust and who to shun.
Friendships, singing, and more singing.
I loved the combination of mythological idealism and modern settings. Furthermore, the interesting characters and the way they interact with the protagonist and each other will make you grin, scowl, and laugh. Yet, it is the excellent decision-making and the varied songs that keep you going. Throughout each playthrough, you are responsible for every branching moment. Consequently, you are forced to pick a personality trait, find friends, and define your own story.
Along the way, the action is wonderfully punctuated with some genuinely interesting songs. Each musical number captures the mood to perfection. Moreover, they progress the story whilst highlighting the relationships that have been forged and the paths you have taken. Accordingly, you’ll enjoy new songs depending on the choices you make and the people you associate with.
It’s a visual novel.
Though the developers don’t say it, Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical is effectively a visual novel. As such, if you want fast-paced action and limited reading, then this won’t be the game for you. On top of this, if you hate musical theatre, you’ll probably want to give this a wide berth.
Alternatively, if either of these things floats your boat, there is no doubt that you’ll cherish every cliched, bizarre, and awe-inspiring moment. Furthermore, the musical numbers are incredible and the flow of the core story is nicely balanced with the madness that unfolds.
Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical looks phenomenal.
I love clean lines and vivid colours. Additionally, I’m a sucker for comic books and the in-your-face artistry. Subsequently, I fell for Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical incredibly bright and attractive graphics. On top of this, the varied backdrops were incredible and each unique chapter kept me coming back for more. Alongside this, if the glitz and glam of the theatre gets your juices flowing, you’ll go mad for the OTT nature of every interaction.
Though there will be some complaints about the musical numbers, I couldn’t find fault. The blend of sombre and melancholy tunes was juxtaposed by some upbeat and amusing songs. Moreover, the acting helps to enhance the modern take on some beloved Greek characters. Therefore, I was invested in how the story unfolded and the relationships that were forming.
Simple controls.
This is a laid-back title that doesn’t demand too much of you. However, you must pay attention whenever there are decisions to be made. Yet, even at critical points, you’ll rarely feel panicked. Consequently, this allows you to absorb the story and enjoy everything that unfolds.
The core story remains the same during every playthrough. Now, this may disappoint you, but it shouldn’t. Thankfully, there are enough subplots and plenty of characters to interact with. As such, if you fall for its madness, there is loads of longevity and replay value.
Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical won’t be for everyone.
I like a divisive title. Whenever a game breaks an audience, you get a healthy debate surrounding its pros and cons. Subsequently, Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical is one of those Marmite titles that won’t be for everyone. I, however, couldn’t stop playing as I enjoyed the weird musical numbers, the excellent writing, and the marvellous plot. Accordingly, I loved it and I recommend that you buy it here! Will you find the truth and be accepted? Choose your path, pick your friends, and sing until your heart bursts.
