Greetings, Magicians and Technologists!
Previously, we have talked at length about the role of magic in New Arc Line, and it's high time we discussed the role technology plays in our world and its future. After all, imposing steam-powered exoskeletons, weird, crackling tesla-powered weapons or ultra-reliable diesel engines can be just as enchanting as any magical incantation! But not all in the world of New Arc Line is shiny and running like clockwork, despite the engineering and scientific elite ruling it.
The Rise of Technologists
We will not repeat our history lecture about the Weavers and Reus the Lawbringer and how he made scientific progress possible - you can read all about it in "A Brief History of Magic." Suffice to say, after the Mago-Technology wars, science and engineering became the ruling principles. This triumph catapulted the Technologists to power, and nothing stood in the way of industrialization and inventors becoming the new sorcerers, the ones shaping the world and society alike. Steamboats took over the seas, zeppelins conquered the skies and wands and magical staves were surpassed by guns, grenades and other technological implements of death.
Automatons' Revolution
A recent invention kickstarted yet another paradigm shift - Wayne Zindo's breakthrough, the creation of automatons, didn't just cement his leadership among the Technologists - it transformed society as a whole. These efficient, low-cost machines can perform all kinds of tasks, from logging to babysitting, driving unprecedented economic growth. After all, automatons do not tire, falter or complain, and so they allow people to enjoy their lives, instead of toiling away in menial jobs. The innovation paved the way for Mr. Zindo to head the Eastern Technology Syndicate, which is at the heart of the action in New Arc Line.
The Downside of Progress
But trouble is brewing beneath the surface. As you might have guessed, the rise of automatons has led to massive layoffs in industrial plants, leaving countless families without a source of income. Ironically, the very workers who once cheered for the suppression of mages are now being crushed by the wheels of the technological revolution they helped create. Industrialists still promise a bright future, and who knows - perhaps they will turn the world into a utopia in the end. But as of the beginning of the story of New Arc Line, the poor, the tired, the huddled masses still yearn to be free and it seems that one form of tyranny has simply replaced another.
Never say die!
Nevertheless, talented enthusiasts can still make their dreams come true, even in this rapidly evolving world - if they show a real work ethic, that is! Opportunities abound in three technological areas in particular: Tesla, Diesel, and Steam. Each field requires a unique skillset from its practitioners, but gives them access to specialized weapons and equipment, granting powerful abilities on par with actual magic. In the game, this translates into the option to select out of three playable technological classes*:
Diesel Engineer
Often seen sporting leather coats with many pockets and utility belts to store the tools they need for their constant tinkering, Diesel Engineers are experts in firearms and skilled creators of cutting-edge diesel gadgets - you never know when a Jetpack might come in handy to bail you out of a tight spot!
Steam Mechanic
These are the most hands-on of the technological classes, preferring to face any problem and obstacle head-on. To that end, they utilize the awesome strength of highly reliable steam engines, powering wearable gear that enhances their own physical abilities; the most skilled Mechanics construct and operate full steam-powered exoskeletons, transforming into nigh-unstoppable behemoths when the need arises to bash some skulls in!
Tesla Scientist
Practitioners of the most mysterious, almost ethereal of the technological disciplines can often be seen with strange, buzzing and sparkling instruments strapped to their bodies, nervously fidgeting as they strive to control lightning itself. The more superstitious folk would say that Tesla Scientists are playing with powers beyond their understanding that are better left alone, but the most accomplished of these scholars are rumored to be able to even reanimate lifeless bodies - what could go wrong?
*Diesel Engineer will be available at Early Access launch, Steam Mechanic and Tesla Scientist will be added as playable classes later.
Thank you for joining us on another brief foray into the world of New Arc Line – we hope you enjoyed it! We cannot wait for you to dive into the game's world when we launch into Early Access on November 26, 2024 - stay tuned, don't forget to wishlist & follow the game here on Steam and join the New Arc Line Discord server, so you stay up to date on all news and announcements!
Until next time!
https://store.steampowered.com/app/2458310/New_Arc_Line/
