Brazilian History in the Demonic Purgatory: The new action RPG Hell Clock from Rogue Snail is available for free for a limited time in the Steam playtest and shows how the studio aims to create a connection between real war history and fast gameplay.
What kind of game is Hell Clock? The new ARPG from the Brazilian studio Rogue Snail appears at first glance to be a fusion of the demonic Diablo concept, dipped in the art style of Hades. And this assumption is not too far from the truth.
“When we started working on this game, we asked ourselves: ‘What if an entire Diablo season (…) only lasted 20 minutes?'” says Mark Venturelli, CEO of Rogue Snail, in conversation with PCGamesN. “And that’s what Hell Clock is: a roguelike that encourages aggressive and fast gameplay.”
The reveal trailer offers insights into the gameplay in question:
Fast Gameplay and Real History Amid Demons
How does the gameplay work? As the protagonist Pajeú, one fights through an ever-deepening dungeon filled with demons and other challenges. You build various builds, fight monsters, and learn new skills to go as far as possible.
The entire gameplay is a three-part story campaign with a finale in which the chosen approach is put to the test.
However, the enemy demons of the dungeon are not meant to be taken literally. With each descent, you are confronted with the injustices of 19th century Brazilian history, which you must face and are given the chance to make amends for the past.
What role do true events play? The team places a special focus on the time of the Canudos War, a military conflict during the years 1896-1897, in which the town of Canudos was destroyed in conflict with the Brazilian Republic and many residents were killed.
We feel that we are ready to tell our version of the Canudos story – not only to the whole world but also to many Brazilian compatriots who may not be aware of the brutal events and the impacts that are still felt today.
Mark Venturelli, CEO of Rogue Snail (Source: PCGamesN)
A Passion Project in the Free Steam Playtest
How can one test Hell Clock? At this time, interested parties can participate in the playtest on Steam, which is available until December 11. Those who want to engage with the gameplay and story of the game need to act quickly.
The planned release of Hell Clock is set for the second quarter of 2025. Until then, however, the game can already be added to your wishlist. Anyone else interested in action RPGs and looking for an alternative to Diablo might find something on MeinMMO: Games like Diablo 2024 – The Best Alternatives to Diablo 4
