Archive 13 is a narrative-driven investigation game where the player takes the role of a tabloid editor in 1990s New York. The player investigates cases, analyses evidence, and decides what information to publish. Every choice affects the player\u2019s safety, reputation, and the direction of the story.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udcccThe game focuses on decision-making and consequences rather than action or combat.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2699Players examine emails, photographs, documents, and audio messages using an evidence analysis system. By inspecting details such as dates, metadata, and inconsistencies, players uncover hidden information and decide what evidence can be trusted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2699After investigating a case, players must decide how to present the story. This includes choosing headlines and deciding whether to publish information fully, partially, or not at all.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These choices affect:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2699The game is made up of several short investigative cases. Each case works on its own but gradually connects to a larger hidden conspiracy known as Archive 13. Earlier choices influence later cases and the final outcome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2699At certain points, players leave the office to meet sources or investigate locations. These moments focus on tension and dialogue, with choices determining what information is gained and how much risk is involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2699There is no traditional failure state. Instead, the game features multiple endings based on the player\u2019s decisions. These endings reflect whether the player prioritised uncovering the truth or protecting themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2b50Key characters such as the editor-in-chief and office staff apply pressure on the player, encouraging certain decisions while discouraging others. Their reactions change based on the player\u2019s choices, reinforcing the tension between professional survival and ethical journalism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2b50After each major decision, players receive feedback through changes in headlines, public reactions, character dialogue, and shifts in gameplay variables, ensuring that consequences are clearly communicated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2b50Atmosphere plays an active role in gameplay. Lighting, sound design, and environmental storytelling change in response to player choices, increasing tension as risk rises and reinforcing the emotional impact of decisions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n \u2b50The branching narrative and multiple endings encourage replayability, allowing players to explore alternative investigative approaches and moral outcomes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Prototype<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nCore Gameplay<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Investigation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Editorial Choices<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Mini Cases<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Fieldwork<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Progression & Endings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\nCharacter Pressure<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Player guidance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Tone & Atmosphere<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Replayability<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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