PRESS KIT (English)

FACT SHEET

Game Name: Eclipse of Elysium
Developer: Thilo Tiede (Margrave Media)
Press contact: thilo@margravemedia.studio | +49 (0) 176 249 77 894
Release: June 2025
Price: 20 Dollar
Plattform: Steam, Epic

MEDIA

 DESCRIPTION

"Eclipse of Elysium" is an indie game developed by Thilo Tiede, a solo developer from Germany. In this game, players control a young woman named Aria, tasked with uncovering a dark conspiracy. Throughout the adventure, players can explore the world in a hovercraft and are accompanied by an animal sidekick, echoing the nostalgic elements that made the cult classic "Beyond Good & Evil" famous over two decades ago.

Inspired by such classics, Tiede aims to forge a unique experience. "Eclipse of Elysium" merges the immersive atmosphere and storytelling of JRPGs with the freedom of choice found in CRPGs like "Baldur's Gate" or "Pathfinder," while simplifying complex RPG elements. The use of Unreal Engine 5.3 allows for modern 3D worlds animated with 2D sprites, giving "Eclipse of Elysium" a visual kinship with games like "Octopath Traveler."

The character of Aria, who can be impulsive, fiery, yet unpredictable, is in the hands of the player, emphasizing the importance of player decisions throughout the game.

With a mix of hovercraft exploration, fast-paced beat-em-up combat systems, and top-down shooter sections, "Eclipse of Elysium" promises a diverse and innovative gameplay experience.

Facing the challenges of solo development, Tiede has launched a Kickstarter campaign early in the development phase to seek support for the game's realization, hoping to enhance the gaming experience by collaborating with talented 2D and 3D artists.

STORY

In "Eclipse of Elysium," you step into the shoes of 21-year-old Aria. At first glance, she appears to be a young, unassuming woman who wouldn't harm a fly. But appearances can be deceiving. In reality, Aria is a biological weapon, deployed on the most dangerous missions in Eldora.

Will you guide Aria to become a guardian angel, protecting the innocent, or a ruthless assassin executing the commands of the powerful and wealthy?

Aria's emotional landscape is at best turbulent. Impulsive, fierce, and often consumed by rage, she embodies the unpredictability of a storm. Yet, like the calm after a tempest, she can also exhibit kindness and a willingness to aid those around her. The emotional path Aria treads is yours to shape. Will she navigate through the darkness with a compassionate heart, or will rage be her guide?

Serving the "Python Network," one of the most critical intelligence services of the Republic, Aria operates in the shadows. She's the one called upon when danger looms, or when tasks demand a leap outside the boundaries of legality. Her hands are the ones that get dirty, fighting battles unseen and undertaking missions that others dare not whisper about.

At the helm of Aria's assignments is Liaison Officer Krall, a member of the Scalekrin—an ancient race of lizard people long oppressed. Krall has climbed the ranks through sheer determination and now stands as a pivotal figure within the Python Network. His loyalty to the organization is unwavering, and he will do whatever it takes to secure his standing, guiding Aria through the network's dark web of intrigue and espionage.

The story begins as a new sinister opponent reveals himself to the Python Network: Charon. Once one of the most influential figures in Eldora, as the chief advisor to the Merchants' Guild, his knowledge, experience, and wisdom were highly valued.

However, those who knew him witnessed Charon's gradual descent into madness, a process that began when he started investigating the origins of the mysterious Conflux. This dangerous organism relentlessly spreads across the world, engulfing villages, cities, and even entire kingdoms in its path.

Charon's intent was to halt this threat, leading him to the ruins of ancient civilizations. Yet, as his investigations deepened, he became increasingly reclusive and shrouded in secrets. Five years ago, Charon vanished from the public eye. Now, he has reemerged, leading a mysterious cult that aims to accelerate the growth of the Conflux.

What drove the once-respected Charon to embark on this path, and why is he now bringing death and destruction over Eldora? The answers to these questions are hidden within the same mysteries that once consumed him.

Features

 EXPLORE: Flourishing terrains, a steampunk metropolis and the ruins of an ancient civilization await you.

YOUR CHOICE: you have plenty of dialogue options. Save the innocent or become the angel of death.

FIGHT: Defeat your enemies with punches, kicks, and spells in fast and straightforward battles.

7 HOURS PLAY TIME: No backtracking, Fetch quests, or grinding

UNREAL ENGINE 5.3: Modern 3D graphics and Pixel Art combine to create a unique experience.

Developer

 My name is Thilo. I am 35-year oldsolo-indie-developer from Germany

To be honest, I'm a newcomer in the video game industry. I've been gaming since I commandeered my sister's Super Nintendo at the age of 10. But the dream of developing my own video game only took hold three years ago when I tried out Unreal Engine for the first time and quickly realized the boundless possibilities it offers.

My dream is to create a game that merges the best of two worlds. I'd like to combine the charm and pathos of a JRPG like Xenoblade with the vast freedom of choice found in Western RPGs like Baldur's Gate. The adventure should be easily accessible. There are no complex mechanics preventing you from quickly getting into the game. I also want to avoid grinding that unnecessarily prolongs playtime.

I aim to create a cinematic work that takes players on an emotional journey, presenting them with tough emotional choices and introducing them to charming and complex characters.

SCREENSHOTS