Empyrean

Empyrean thrusts you into a dieselpunk aerial saga where your choices rewrite the fate of Actorius—a city torn between revolution, corruption, and mysterious biomechanical forces. This text-based interactive novel (325,000 words) lets you pilot the experimental Empyrean aero, forge alliances, and navigate political intrigue through pure imagination. Perfect for fans of immersive, choice-driven storytelling.

Features of Empyrean

1. Branching Narratives: Shape the plot via tactical decisions, romances, and alliances.

2. Custom Identity: Play as male, female, or nonbinary, with fluid romantic options.

3. Deep Tech Exploration: Uncover a subterranean world blending organic and mechanical life.

4. Identity Concealment: Juggle dual roles to evade foes and family.

5. Multi-Faction Politics: Align with rebels, oligarchs, or foreign powers—each path reshapes the city.

6. Aerial Combat: Engage in text-simulated dogfights with strategic depth.

Advantages of Empyrean

1. Narrative Depth: Complex characters and morally gray choices rival literary fiction.

2. Inclusivity: Gender/sexuality options surpass many interactive novels.

3. Replay Value: 18+ endings and diverging storylines encourage replays.

4. Atmospheric Worldbuilding: Dieselpunk-meets-biopunk setting feels fresh and detailed.

5. Player Agency: Choices tangibly impact faction dynamics and endings.

Disadvantages of Empyrean

1. No Visuals/Sound: Text-only format may deter some gamers.

2. Steep Learning Curve: Political complexity might overwhelm casual readers.

3. Niche Appeal: Dieselpunk themes less mainstream than fantasy/sci-fi.

Development Team

Created by Kyle Marquis, a veteran in interactive fiction (e.g., Choice of Robots), Empyrean is published by Choice of Games—a studio specializing in narrative-driven titles. The team’s expertise ensures polished mechanics and rich storytelling.

Competitive Products

1. Choice of Robots: Sharper sci-fi focus but lacks Empyrean’s faction depth.

2. 80 Days: Similar text immersion but linear compared to Empyrean’s branching paths.

3. Tin Star: Western-themed CYOA; fewer customization and LGBTQ+ options.

Market Performance

Rated 4.7/5 on app stores, praised for its "addictive replayability" and "thought-provoking dilemmas." Downloads trend among interactive fiction enthusiasts, with fans calling it "a masterclass in storytelling." Criticisms center on the lack of visuals, though most applaud its prose quality.