Alta, the creative minds behind A Township Tale (2021), are gearing up for the release of their new dungeon-crawler extraction game, REAVE. In a recent update, they gave us a sneak peek into the game’s systems, along with a fresh dungeon and a formidable enemy—though keep in mind, it’s all still under development.
In their latest dev log, they showcased some of the newly revamped systems and locations. Among them is the standout feature: a grand chamber known as ‘The Fallen Bastion.’ Lead environment artist Sean Ellis describes it as a mix of open and confined spaces, with well-lit areas contrasting with shadows perfect for ambushing fellow players or evading enemies.
At the heart of this intriguing setup lies a magical pedestal. Here, players can call forth a boss battle. Currently, this involves a giant spider, a temporary test subject for those epic clashes the game promises.
But don’t worry, the spider is just a stand-in while the developers fine-tune the larger boss battles. The studio assures fans that something more permanent and specific is in the works.
They’re also reworking many previously unveiled areas, rolling out numerous enhancements and adjustments. Interestingly, some spots might get completely revamped in the near future.
Adding spice to the mix is a fresh enemy model that will take over from the placeholder skeletons. These new adversaries come with varied levels of difficulty, influenced by their weaponry and armor, adding an extra layer of challenge and strategy.
In keeping with REAVE’s identity as an extraction game, Alta is focusing on an in-game currency named ‘Echoes’ (likely just a temporary title). Players can accumulate Echoes in a vessel that gradually fills up. Enemies drop Echoes upon defeat, but they can also be scavenged from the environment. This currency drives you to slay and explore, unlocking loot rooms or funding your escape from dungeons to return to a social hub where you can trade your plundered treasures.
For those eager to dive into the action, Alta is offering a chance to become a tester via their Discord community, where they occasionally open up limited testing slots. While the official release date is still under wraps, it’s confirmed REAVE will be available on Quest 2 and later models, as well as PC VR headsets.
