I’m catching some serious Black & White vibes from this trailer for Godhood

Abbey Games, and indie studio based in the Netherlands, revealed the first look of their new god game Godhood today with the release of this new teaser trailer.

Old-timey PC gamers will probably remember Lionhead Studios old god title Black & White (my strategy for which was to pick up everybody and everything and throw them into the ocean; I was an angry god). This new Godhood trailer immediately reminded me of that classic title, though Abbey Games is obviously pursuing a much more modern look and feel.

Check out this description:

“In Godhood, players create their own religion by tending to their flock of disciples as a young god. Set in ancient lands and viewed from an isometric perspective, the player’s followers cannot be directly controlled but are influenced by the choices and direction of their god. From selecting different virtues and vices, to building monuments and nurturing powerful prophets, the options available to newborn gods, to shape and lead, are plentiful. Conflict is inevitable, and through ritual combat, players will be able to challenge rival deities and their followers who dare to contest their claim to power and glory.”

Sounds kinda Black & White-ish, doesn’t it? That is totally fine with me, as I have missed this genre, and am excited to see what Abbey Games does to push this type of game into the modern era..

Some more features from the press release:

• Create your religion: Godhood lets players create the religion they wish to propagate. Will the players priests keep peace by giving human sacrifice to the sun or run around as lustful vegetarian barbarians? Creation is up to the player, and using these + many other options will set the course for what type of deity they want to be.

• Guide your disciples: Players define what is important for their followers, selecting virtues and vices, which guide them in how they live and what rituals they undertake. Through guidance, help disciples rise to become powerful prophets who train future generations, and carry the religion forward throughout the ages.

• Literally play god: As a god, influence is imparted through the use of a wide range of abilities and powers. Rather than having direct control over them, disciples react to the actions of their god and act of their own accord. Deciding what rituals to enact or which monument to build is key to a prosperous society and devoted following.

• Ritual combat: Other deities and religions battle for power and influence, leading to ritual combat with opposing gods. Known as ‘Sacraments’, players’ followers will need to prove their worth through the use of awe, persuasion, and brute force.

• Colourful art style: Charming visuals with bright, hand-drawn qualities depict the new and unknown world of Godhood with a lush, isometric perspective.

• Replayability: Powered by a deep simulation system, Godhood allows players to experiment with dozens of different religious combinations unlocking new secrets as they progress along a main storyline filled with battles, rituals, and challenging side quests.

No specific date has been set for Godhood, but the game is expected to release sometime in 2019.