I asked OpenAI’s GPT-3 to generate 31 different videogame ideas, one for each day of Blaugust, each dealing in some way with that particular day of the month. Here’s its idea for August 9th, “The Nine-Lives Chronicles”.
Number: 9. Genre: Turn-based RPG. Title: “The Nine-Lives Chronicles”.
You play as a young woman who discovers she has nine lives. Along with eight other people who also have nine lives, you must use your extra lives to help others and make the world a better place.
In the tradition of such classics as Final Fantasy VII, “Nine Lives Chronicles” follow a young woman named Claire as she discovers that she has nine lives. Her epic story will span multiple lifetimes, from a lifetime in the distant past of a war-torn world, to a lifetime in the future of a world on the brink of destruction. In each lifetime, Claire will meet different people who also have nine lives, and together they must use their extra lives to help others and make the world a better place.
Depending on questions answered during the opening scene, Claire will first discover her extra lives when she:
- is mortally wounded in battle, but inexplicably wakes up unharmed.
- is attacked by a vicious monster, but is saved by a mysterious stranger who also has nine lives.
- witnesses the death of a loved one, but is given the chance to save them by using one of her extra lives.
Throughout her journey, Claire will use her nine lives to:
- save people from danger
- help others achieve their goals
- change the course of history
With each life she lives, Claire will come one step closer to understanding the true purpose of her extra lives.
“The Nine-Lives Chronicles” has (as you’d expect) nine different endings. In one ending, Claire uses all of her lives to save others and dies contentedly knowing that she made a difference in the world. In another ending, Claire discovers that her extra lives are a curse, and she spends her remaining days trying to find a way to rid herself of them. There are also several endings in which Claire fails to make a difference in the world, or only makes things worse. It’s up to you to decide which ending Claire will ultimately achieve.
Since this is a turn-based RPG, gameplay consists mostly of Claire exploring her world, talking to people, and engaging in battles. Battles are fought using a traditional turn-based system, with Claire and her party members taking turns attacking and defending. However, since Claire has nine lives, she can choose to use one of her extra lives to continue fighting even if she is defeated. This adds an extra layer of strategy to battles, as you must decide when to use Claire’s extra lives wisely.
Graphics
The graphics in “Nine Lives Chronicles” are colorful and detailed, with a distinct anime-inspired art style. The world is fully realized, and there are many different environments to explore, from lush forests to bustling cities. The characters are all well-designed and have their own unique look.
Sound
The music in “Nine Lives Chronicles” is sweeping and epic, with a mix of orchestral and electronic elements. The game features an extensive soundtrack that sets the mood for each scene perfectly. The sound effects are also well done, and help to bring the world to life.
Gameplay
“Nine Lives Chronicles” is a turn-based RPG with a focus on exploration and story. The game is heavily reliant on its narrative, and as such, gameplay consists mostly of talking to people, exploring your surroundings, and making choices that affect the outcome of the story. However, battles do play a significant role in the game, and are fought using a traditional turn-based system. Battles become more difficult as the story progresses, and require careful planning and use of Claire’s extra lives.
Conclusion
“Nine Lives Chronicles” is a well-written and engaging turn-based RPG with a strong focus on story. The game’s colorful graphics, sweeping music, and detailed worldbuilding create a immersive and enjoyable experience. While the gameplay is mostly focused on the story, the battles are challenging and require strategic use of Claire’s extra lives. “Nine Lives Chronicles” is a must-play for fans of RPGs.
“Nine Lives Chronicles” is available for the Bandai Wonderswan, as well as the Bandai Wonderswan Color.
