In the enchanting world of "Heavens' Revolution: A Lion Among the Cypress," a Persian steampunk empire awaits your arrival. As a master of arcane alchemy, you stand at the crossroads of a revolution. Will you harness your skills to repair a khalicraft spaceship and escape to another world, or will you pilot a formidable mech into the heart of battle? The choice is yours, and each decision you make will shape the destiny of this retrofuturistic fantasy.
Set in a universe inspired by eighteenth-century Iran, this interactive novel by Peter Adrian Behravesh offers a sprawling narrative of 270,000 words, where your choices dictate the story's direction. Without graphics or sound effects, the game relies solely on the power of your imagination to bring its world to life.
Your expertise in alchemy places you at the forefront of both magic and technology. You can create gunpowder, design intricate machines, brew potions to combat the most severe diseases, and distill exquisite perfumes. The lost art of astralchemy beckons you to delve deeper, offering the potential to repair a khalicraft spaceship or command a giant mech in battle.
The ancient city of Seyj teeters on the edge of revolution. Fifty years ago, the She'ri Empire invaded, toppling the old ruler and occupying your planet. With heritage from both She'ri colonists and ancient Seyj families, your loyalties are divided. As a citizen, you are obligated to serve in the Royalists' army, defending the satrap governor. Yet, the Revolutionists' protests grow louder each day, demanding the overthrow of the satrap and the restoration of the old regime.
When the Revolutionists approach you, will you align with their quest for justice? Will you remain steadfast in your duty to the satrap? Or will you navigate a perilous path, acting as a spy and playing both sides against each other? Be wary, for the wrong move could place you on the sharp end of a shamshir's blade.
In "Heavens' Revolution: A Lion Among the Cypress," you can:
- Play as male, female, or nonbinary; gay, straight, bi, or asexual.
- Master arcane astralchemy to craft powerful weapons, open your own workshop, or secure a professorship at the University.
- Rise through the military ranks and command an army to defend the satrap.
- Join the revolution, overthrow the usurper, and restore the old ruler to her throne.
- Find love with a fellow soldier, a blacksmith-turned-rebel, or a princess.
As you navigate this intricate world, you must ponder: Is gaining the world worth losing your soul?