Given the ability of video games to tell stories, the unique structure of the medium can be used to connect gamers to classic tales. In addition to introducing interactive mechanics, video games are also able to reinterpret the story elements to make the experience more cohesive to the overall vision. The upcoming 2D action game, Batara: Fate Unbound, uses hand-drawn art and Sekiro-inspired gameplay to convey a story based in Indonesian traditions. It recently received a new trailer announcing the launch of Unfated Studios’ Kickstarter campaign for the project, along with showing off much of the title’s unique visual identity.

The trailer begins with a figure playing a stringed song while referencing the shifting currents. As the camera pulls back, players get a glimpse into the fantastical world of Batara: Fate Unbound with the figure revealed to have an open book for a head. Gameplay starts from there, following who the Steam page introduces as Moriyan, The Unfated as he runs through temples, armories, and forests. As the name suggests, the main character is an anomaly where he comes from due to possessing no fate that people can see. His mission will be to avoid the tyrant hunting him and save the world from the chaos that has engulfed it.

Morivan fights using a sword, fighting through enemies by reading their attack signals and responding during openings. The mechanic that receives the most attention is the ability to parry incoming attacks. More than just sword strikes and throws, however, Batara: Fate Unbound lets players parry death during the cutscene that would usually lead to a game over.

The team behind Batara: Fate Unbound claims to draw inspiration from many beloved games and series. Combined with the hand-drawn art style, this has earned it a lot of attention. The game has no release date announced yet, but the Kickstarter has gotten halfway to its goal within the first day.