Developers are gearing up to release 1348 Ex Voto, an action-adventure title that transports players to the turbulent landscapes of medieval Italy. The game, developed by Sedleo and published by Dear Villagers, is scheduled for a March 12 launch on PC and PlayStation 5, with no plans for an Xbox version.
The narrative follows Aeta, a young noblewoman training to become a knight errant, as she embarks on a perilous journey across the Italian peninsula. Her world is upended when bandits attack her village, kidnapping someone close to her. This sets the stage for a story steeped in historical authenticity, drawing from chivalric tropes and the harsh realities of 14th-century life.
The game's combat system is designed to feel cinematic, inspired by Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA). Players will navigate between one-handed and two-handed weapon stances, with skill books scattered throughout the environment to unlock new combos. This approach allows for a high degree of customization in Aeta's swordplay.
One of the standout features is the game's attention to historical detail. The development team spent extensive time in rural Italy, meticulously recording environments to ensure authenticity. This commitment extends beyond visuals, with performance-capture actors contributing to the animation process, adding a layer of realism that is often overlooked in games set in this era.
For those interested in experiencing 1348 Ex Voto, it will be available on PC through Steam and the Epic Games Store. The PlayStation 5 version will also launch simultaneously. While official system requirements have not been released yet, the game is expected to retail for $24.99 across both platforms.
The absence of an Xbox version is notable, especially given the current market dynamics. With Xbox Series console sales declining, smaller studios like Sedleo may find it less viable to invest in ports that offer limited returns. This trend could reshape the gaming landscape, as more indie titles opt for PC and PlayStation 5 exclusivity.
1348 Ex Voto promises to be a standout title in the action-adventure genre, blending historical depth with engaging gameplay mechanics. Whether it will resonate with players remains to be seen, but its focus on authenticity and innovation in combat could set a new benchmark for games in this space.
