I enjoy choice based games but until Suzerain I always thought that the limits of game design and resources would mean that they would forever be constrained to illusions, slight of hand, and retcons. The amount of options this game provides are staggering, and the game doesn't pull punches about the consequences of your actions either, forgoing the pampering of the player that so many video games stoop to. You're going to face harsh criticism, no matter what you do, and in some cases trying your best can still lead to disaster due to unforeseen circumstances. With its inexorable auto-save system and detailed depiction of a volatile status quo, Suzerain forces you to cast the die and let the chips fall where they may, and in-doing so encourages deep reflection about the issues that plague our past, present, and future. A pretty remarkable feat for such a small title.

Also, skimming wikipedia articles while in cabinet meetings about your failing country is straight up one of the funniest things you can do in a video game.

Reviewed on Dec 22, 2021


Comments