Seven: The Days Long Gone

Mechanics

The game is an action-RPG played from an isometric view and set in a post-apocalyptic world. SEVEN stands out with an interesting game world, which resembles the medieval period in its stylistics, but also contains elements of advanced technologies - these are considered remnants of the old civilization. The protagonist himself is not a typical hero as well: during his journey, he is constantly accompanied by Artanak - a demon residing within the character. As a result, Teriel gains access to a set of unique abilities based on the senses of the being concealed within the protagonist. Thus Teriel is able to know a guard's range of sight. He is also capable to slow down or accelerate the age of time, for instance.

Teriel is a thief, thus the game does not feature any division into character classes - the protagonist can develop in one single way. Obviously, it affects the gameplay itself, resulting in a stealth-action experience in many aspects. The player moves across rooftops silently, sneaking past guards and wearing different disguises. When necessary, attacking by surprise is also an option. It is not an easy game however, for both the game world and its inhabitants are subjects to changing weather conditions and a time cycle. For example, when it rains, water pools appear on the ground. Stepping into one makes a noise which can alert the nearby guards.

Contrary to other games belonging to the genre, SEVEN offers open, multi-leveled locations and an environment reflecting the player's actions. The developer gives a set of abilities to the players - using these for different purposes is entirely up to them. The in-game levels were divided into zones and the player is capable of travelling from one to another freely, as long as they have a visa - it can be stolen or acquired during a mission. Without the visa, the player is required to face numerous difficulties, such as having to avoid guards for example. Apart from that, the players can try different tricks, losing a group of enemies who chase the protagonist in crowds of citizens who may not be happy about seeing the guards running around their neighborhoods. All of this means that particular quests can be approached in multiple ways.

Technical aspects

SEVEN: The Days Long Gone for PC stands out particularly with its level design. The game simply makes a good impression in of the visuals. SEVEN utilizes Unreal Engine 4 - a technology used in production of such games as Final Fantasy VII Remake.