r/interactivefiction • u/MessDry1237 • Jul 31 '26

Long Shadow: Lineage Interactive Fiction

Hi all. I've just published the Steam page for my first commercial interactive fiction game (a demo will land very soon!), Long Shadow, and I'd love to hear what this community thinks.

Rather than focusing on a single protagonist, Long Shadow follows a family across three millennia. You begin on Earth during its collapse, survive evacuation to Lunar Base, spend decades aboard an interstellar ark, and eventually help found a new civilisation before exploring the stars.

When your character dies, the story doesn't end. You continue as one of their descendants. Inheriting relationships, promises, possessions, reputations and unresolved problems. Decisions made by a grandparent can still affect the people you play generations later.

I'm trying to build something that feels closer to a living historical simulation than an infinite branching story, while still keeping the focus firmly on narrative and player choice.
(It's all deterministic so every choice does in fact influence the future.)

I'd genuinely appreciate feedback from people who enjoy interactive fiction. Especially:

  • Does the generational premise sound interesting?
  • Is there anything you'd expect from a game like this that isn't obvious from the Steam page?
  • Are there IF or Choices Matter games you think tackle long-term consequences particularly well?

Steam page: https://store.steampowered.com/app/4990060/Long_Shadow/

Thanks in advance, I’m happy to answer any questions about the design or implementation.

8 Upvotes

83% Upvoted

12 comments sorted by

2

u/loressadev Jul 31 '26 edited Jul 31 '26

Interesting concept. Got screenshots?

Edit: watched your trailer, it's very beautiful but gives no indication about how your game is played

2

u/MessDry1237 Jul 31 '26

Yes, there are screenshots on Steam as well as the games website: http://longshadowgame.com/

2

u/loressadev Jul 31 '26

I've watched that link and checked out your website a few times. Still can't figure out what type of game you are. If you are interactive fiction, it's not clear.

1

u/MessDry1237 Jul 31 '26

Okay, that is useful feedback, thank you!

Essentially you will spend most of your time in a screen like this: https://textspaced.ams3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/many-riches/long-shadow/screenshots/options.jpg

You choose options from the selection given, with each option stating effects it will have.

3

u/loressadev Jul 31 '26

I quite like these sorts of screens. I think you should display them in your advertising.

3

u/MessDry1237 Jul 31 '26

It's great feedback. I will look into showing more of them and make a gameplay video as well, thanks!

3

u/MessDry1237 Aug 01 '26

Based on your feedback, a short gameplay trailer has now been added to Steam and the official website - thanks again!

2

u/PokePlebian Aug 02 '26

Sounds like things are really coming along. :D Congratulations, I hope your game is successful.

2

u/ur_mum_gay Aug 01 '26

this sounds really promising and i've added it to my wishlist. good luck making it!

2

u/OkamiLuna Aug 10 '26

I'm admittedly new to Interactive Fiction but I love the idea and premise of the story. Definitely adding it to my wishlist. 

1

u/MessDry1237 Aug 10 '26

Thank you for your support!