Introduction to Chronicles: Medieval
Announced at the Summer Games Fest, Chronicles: Medieval marks the debut project of the fresh development studio Raw Power Games. Although this is their first release, the team boasts experienced veterans who have contributed to acclaimed titles such as Hogwarts Legacy, Hitman, and Assassin’s Creed Odyssey. The trailer unveiled today offers a glimpse into the game’s core themes, but we also had the opportunity to attend a special presentation that shed more light on the ambitious scope of this historical role-playing adventure.
Setting and Main Concept
Set in Europe during the year 1313 AD, the game invites players to create a character starting with humble origins—perhaps a simple craftsman from an obscure village. The overarching goal is to transform this modest individual into a powerful and influential figure of the medieval era. From the very beginning, players have the freedom to choose their path: rise through social ranks by winning tournaments and earning honors, or pursue a more rogue-like career as a mercenary, bandit, or soldier fighting for the crown.
As your character gains prominence, the game challenges you to expand your influence across the continent. This can be achieved not only through warfare but also via diplomacy, trade, and strategic alliances. For those who prefer more clandestine tactics, options like espionage and subterfuge are also available, allowing for a versatile approach to empire-building. Chronicles: Medieval empowers players to craft their legend and shape the world’s response to their actions.
Dynamic Challenges and Natural Disasters
The game’s proprietary simulation technology introduces unpredictable elements that can disrupt even the most carefully laid plans. Famine, plagues, and natural disasters sweep across Europe, serving as both obstacles and opportunities. These events can turn into shared enemies with other nations or open new avenues for territorial expansion. Exploiting a weakened opponent during a crisis becomes a strategic move—winning battles when the enemy is vulnerable has never been more critical.
Large-Scale Battles and Cooperative Play
While conquest often involves warfare, Chronicles: Medieval also emphasizes large-scale battles that echo the historical conflicts of the period. Players will have the chance to prepare armies, command troops, and participate in epic medieval battles. The developer describes these conflicts as a cornerstone of the game’s sandbox experience, blending historical authenticity with engaging gameplay.
Although primarily a single-player experience, the game offers a cooperative mode where friends can join in custom battles, fighting side by side in knightly duels or full-scale wars. This feature aims to enhance replayability and multiplayer excitement.
Embracing Modding and Community Involvement
One of Raw Power Games’ main priorities is making the game highly moddable. Community Manager Clemens Koch emphasizes that modding is deeply embedded in the studio’s philosophy, encouraging players to customize and expand their experience. Whether it’s creating hilarious scenarios like a hundred Thomas the Tank Engines battling a single Master Chief or designing unique gameplay mods, the possibilities are limitless.
Release Plans and Future Outlook
The studio plans to launch Chronicles: Medieval in Early Access on PC sometime in 2026. The developers intend to actively involve the community during this period, gathering feedback and refining the game over approximately 12 months before a full release. Although console versions are under consideration, the focus remains on delivering a polished, premium experience without turning the game into a service-based platform.
Behind the Voice: Tom Hardy’s Involvement
For those wondering how the distinguished actor Tom Hardy ended up narrating the trailer, the process was surprisingly straightforward. Raw Power Games simply reached out to Hardy via email, presenting the concept and trailer. Impressed by the project, Hardy loved the idea and graciously agreed to lend his voice, adding a touch of cinematic flair to the game’s promotion.
What to Expect from Chronicles: Medieval
If the game lives up to its promises, players will have a rich and immersive experience exploring medieval Europe’s complex social, political, and military landscape. Whether through diplomacy, warfare, or covert operations, the power to shape your destiny and ascend to the throne is firmly in your hands. Chronicles: Medieval aims to deliver a captivating blend of historical authenticity and player-driven storytelling, promising countless hours of adventure and strategy in a dynamic, living world.