Rhythm RPG Away From Home Launches October 27th

Away From Home, a new rhythm-based RPG, is set for an upcoming release. Cameron Smith-Randick, owner of indie outfit Squishy, has announced the game will arrive on PC on October 27th. 

A trailer for the game dropped earlier this year, showcasing its visuals and gameplay. You can check it out below.

Away From Home was developed by a team of just two people, and has been in the works for nearly a decade. Smith-Randick has credited Mother 3, Undertale, and Rhythm Heaven Fever as inspirations for the game’s design. 

The game’s main protagonist is Abby, a girl who explores an unfamiliar world alongside her brother, Michael. The crux of the story is that players control Abby against her will. The world only exists while playing and ceases to exist when the game is closed. Over time, the protagonists will become aware of this, and begin to unlock a deeper plot. 

The trailer and screenshots definitely confirm the inspiration from the games cited by the creator. The visuals also invoke the look and feel of classic ’90s cartoons like Johnny Bravo or Courage the Cowardly Dog. Meanwhile, rhythm and RPG hybrid games have had plenty of success in recent years, with titles like Crypt of the NecroDancer and Theatrhythm Final Fantasy. The two genres are a natural fit for each other, as rhythm-based gameplay is often used to enhance RPG combat. 

Key Features

Away From Home offers meaningful choices that influence the story’s direction and a large, open world to explore. Exploration is akin to EarthBound, while battles take a rhythm game approach. Each character has their own voice, adding depth to their personalities. The game features extensive side quests and random events. There are also alternate story routes to enhance replayability. 

Battles take place from a third-person perspective, with players timing their actions to the beat of the music. There are options for basic attacks, special moves, items, and blocking. Hitting commands on cue lets players earn action points for powerful attacks. Balancing timing with strategic planning is key to countering enemy abilities. Foes have special attacks that trigger quick-time events, and incorrect inputs can result in significant damage. 

Away From Home Screenshots

Away From Home launches for PC on October 27th. Its exact price upon release is still unknown. Those interested can add it to their Steam wishlist now.

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