Strange Absurdity: DOG STAR

From the Devs

Deep in a wood near Hollow Creek, Washington, in the year 1977.

A rendezvous first set in motion decades ago is finally coming to its apex.

You are responsible for ensuring all goes according to plan. You are staying in a tower equipped with the necessary instruments to receive, decode, and transmit vital signals expected to reach the area as the Arrival draws near.

The tower is your home. It provides all that you need; a stove to warm yourself and cook supper, a place to brew a hot cup of coffee to help you through the night, and even means to defend yourself against those unfortunate things which do not take kindly to the presence of life in our realm.

• The provided RDF detector is a special tool which allows you to track most entities that rise deep in the black of the surrounding forest.

• Make use of the spirit lamps placed along the tower catwalk to burn away the things before they can reach your domain.

• Some things don't mind the light - they instead respond to the song of your vesper horn, but the melody that wards them off changes by night. Ensure you have the correct notes in mind before sounding off the horn.

• Some things do not mind any of these methods. For these, you will have to rely on the strength of the door and hatch bolts, and pouches of salt which you may line the window sills and entry points with. Keep an eye on the bolts. They have a tendency to recuse themselves. 

The tower has been specifically built around where the veil separating us from the other side has ripped open. Navigate the catwalk all the way around to reach the Still. Go back - or go around once more - to return home. The Still and home alike contain dangers only detectable in their respective side, but letting things from either place get too close will allow them to reach across the veil. Keep your eyes and ears keen at all times.

You have a dog, as provided by the Company. Take care of it, and it will take care of you. Its heightened senses allow awareness of coming things from either realm - and even those invisible to your RDF detector - alerting you to incoming sieges in advance. But a neglected friend does not stay a friend.

Stay on top of your duties and transmit decoded signals back to the Company, and you will be provided with credits to purchase necessary requisitions. The Company will deliver these to the supply cache in the nearby shed the following night; ensure you are planning for needed supplies in advance.

Falling behind on your work will result in an unacceptable outcome for the Company, and more than likely, a permanent end for yourself.

Good luck.

Strange Absurdity: DOG STAR is a follow-up to the niche adventure game Strange Absurdity: ANCIENTS' ASYLUM.