In illness and in secrecy
- by Gavin Lane
Update []: As mentioned by Broosh in the remarks, generative AI has been utilized for the dialogue audio, as indicated in a note on the game’s Steam page. The note states:
AI Generated Content Disclosure
The developers explain how their game incorporates AI Generated Content as follows:
Generative AI is employed for the audio within the dialogues. The audio used features actors who were remunerated for their contributions. The dialogue audio can be turned off in-game.
We have contacted PR for clarification regarding the precise procedure and additional information. We’ll inform you if and when we receive more updates.
Original Story: While Kojima enthusiasts on Switch may feel somewhat neglected amidst all the Death Stranding 2 excitement, not to mention the absence of 60fps options in the Metal Gear Solid: Master Collection Vol. 1 (we’re still hopeful for a Switch 2 announcement), it appears that Rainy Frog and the solo developer Rainy Night Creations may have a little something to satisfy your cravings. Provided you seek retro-inspired stealth, that is; Dollman fans probably won’t find what they desire here.
Spy Drops doesn’t hesitate to express its admiration for its stealth-action inspirations, that’s certain. Launching on Switch (and Steam) on 31st July, the game’s narrative includes the essential components of covert operations and dubious agents. The story seemingly unfolds through randomized missions showcasing PS1-style visuals and gameplay that distinctly channels the adventures of one Solid Snake.
You can expect a plethora of familiar spy gadgetry — night vision goggles, drones, grenades — you know, the basics. The PR description also refers to a “Dream Catcher,” which you can utilize to “infiltrate the minds of soldiers and reveal the locations of upcoming targets.” Just like that.
Aside from the gameplay, one detail certainly worth mentioning is that the character designs have been crafted by ArtePiazza, the Japanese studio with a rich legacy with Square Enix and the Dragon Quest franchise, most recently contributing to the superb Super Mario RPG Switch remake.
The trailer above provides a great impression of how authentically the game appears compared to the late-’90s classics it’s emulating. Here are a few screenshots and some extra details from the press announcement:
A narrative that takes a twist….
As your assignment progresses, so does the reality behind it. What was thought to be a world-saving operation aimed at halting a global menace quickly devolves into something much darker. Who can you rely on when the individuals giving you orders are concealing behind the greatest deceit and conspiracy?
–Endlessly replayable: enjoy randomly generated missions, allowing you to explore a fresh story and new challenges with every playthrough.
– Dynamic Gameplay: from map designs to enemy arrangements, no two missions are identical. Even the climate and time of day will keep you alert!
– Stealth with Panache: enhance your character, master new stealth techniques, and become the ultimate espionage agent.
– Spy Against Spy Mode: challenge a friend in a local multiplayer duel. Who’s the superior agent?
It’s difficult to ascertain without trying it out, but it certainly seems impressive, and we’re also intrigued by the prospect of local competitive multiplayer.
It’s set to launch at the month’s end for £13.99/$14.99, so we can only hope that the exceptional visual aesthetic translates into Spy Drops’ infiltration gameplay. Let us know below if your interest is sparked.
Gavin first contributed to Nintendo Life in 2018 before joining the site as a full-time member the subsequent year, ascending through the ranks to become Editor. He may currently be found buried beneath a Switch backlog the size of Normandy.
