The Ukrainian city of Mariupol faced extensive destruction during the initial stages of Russia’s invasion in 2022. The violent bombardment led to the destruction of a majority of residential buildings, leaving thousands of people dead or displaced. The city has been under Russian occupation for nearly two years, during which it has undergone significant transformation, erasing much of its Ukrainian heritage.
Hollow Home, an RPG inspired by Disco Elysium, serves as a tribute to the Mariupol of the past, capturing the essence of the city prior to the war. While not a direct replica, the game meticulously portrays details, colors, personalities, and recognizable landmarks of Mariupol. Developed in the aftermath of Mariupol’s occupation, Hollow Home draws from journalistic accounts of the invasion to create a fictional narrative that unfolds over 30 in-game days. Players assume the role of 14-year-old Maksym, tasked with surviving and aiding others during the conflict.
Unlike traditional RPGs, Hollow Home steers clear of combat and graphic violence. Instead, the game focuses on portraying the impact of war on civilians and the gradual deterioration of neighborhoods as residents face atrocities and flee the city. With a pen-and-paper role-playing style and vibrant graphic novel aesthetics, Hollow Home draws players into a world that resonates with the harsh realities of Mariupol’s tragic history.
In Hollow Home, players navigate Maksym’s daily life, utilizing action points to engage in essential skills like cooking and first aid. The early stages of the game highlight innocent activities within the community, from mundane tasks to playful interactions. As players progress, they encounter a diverse cast of characters, including shopkeepers, mechanics, and neighbors, each grappling with the looming threat of war. The game’s narrative unfolds dynamically, with various outcomes based on the player’s choices and interactions.
While Hollow Home serves as a commemorative piece honoring Mariupol’s past, it also raises questions about the intersection of art and commerce. As the game prepares for release on platforms like Steam, it must navigate the complexities of presenting a memorial work within a commercialized gaming environment. The developers’ decision to share Mariupol’s story through a video game medium sparks discussions about how such narratives are framed and consumed by audiences.
Scheduled for release in 2025, Hollow Home aims to offer approximately 24 hours of gameplay, spanning three distinct districts of a typical Ukrainian city. Through its immersive storytelling and compelling characters, the game seeks to shed light on the resilience and humanity amidst the turmoil of war. As players embark on Maksym’s journey, they not only experience the challenges of survival but also witness the profound impact of conflict on communities and individuals.
Hollow Home stands as a poignant reminder of Mariupol’s tumultuous history, blending artistry with storytelling to create a powerful interactive experience. By capturing the essence of a city ravaged by war, the game invites players to reflect on the resilience, compassion, and strength of individuals facing adversity. Through its narrative richness and immersive gameplay, Hollow Home offers a unique opportunity to explore the art of remembering and honoring the past through the lens of interactive storytelling.
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