Cold Runner Studios recently announced a new JRPG-esque title that takes a lot of its inspiration from the 16-bit era of role-playing titles on home consoles. The name of the JRPG? Melancholy Republic. What do you do in the game? Well, it sees players assuming the role of a woman trying to save her land from despair and change the world.

As mentioned on the Greenlight page…

“The story is told across four chapters, each with its own memorable characters and their stories that unfold. Using a mix of beautiful illustrations and sprite art to tell the a deep, multi-layered tale, explore the city or Lorna, speak to hundreds of characters and get lost in the mature, story based adventure of Claire C. Lockridge.”

You can check out the game’s promo trailer below.

There’s a lot of positive feedback for the game over on Steam Greenlight. The only thing a few people have asked about is the combat system.

After going through the Kickstarter page we don’t really get any details about combat. Instead there’s mention of mini-games and the ability to sneak around town and help people out by carrying out various tasks.

The game prides itself on the scope of its adventure throughout the city – it’s not just about the plush and the beautiful, it’s also about the downtrodden and those in despair.

As mentioned on the Kickstarter page…

“Pressures on the capital of Lorna are increasing as the political, economic and technological landscapes are shifting. With the addition of the bordering state’s civil war, Lorna is experiencing an influx of refugees gathering in slums at the edge of the city.”

Players will have to ride a fine thread on how to deal with the increasing levels of poverty amidst the turmoil of war and neighboring strife with nearby regions.

The art-style and music definitely have my attention. If you like what you’ve seen so far, you can upvote Melancholy Republic over on Steam Greenlight or donate to the cause by paying a visit to the Kickstarter page.