Today, with the blessing of the God Emperor, Owlcat Games launches the alpha of the upcoming CRPG Warhammer 40,000: Dark Heresy on Steam. Founders who purchased either the Developers Digital Pack or the Collectors Edition will become faithful members of the Inquisition in the Calixis Sector and investigate cults, conspiracies and other mysteries threatening Humanity.
In the alpha, players will team up with several acolytes of the Inquisition — and even some Xenos, if that’s what it takes to pursue their ambitions. Among the group of available companions are a Kroot outcast, a deadly Medicae specialist, an Ogryn with higher than average intelligence, and more. With 10-15 hours of estimated playtime in the alpha, players will learn the basics of the revamped combat system, get to know the ins and outs of the Inquisition and uncover mysteries with the new detective system. As part of the Holy Orders of the Emperor’s Inquisition, players must look for clues, interrogate suspects and come to conclusions — and woe betide those found guilty!
Inquisitors will experience how the world around them changes with their decisions: characters will remember who you accuse, who you spare, and how you behave. Storylines and even the environment itself will be altered by the consequences of their actions.
The alpha also showcases a number of improved gameplay features: movement on the map is much more vertical than it was in Rogue Trader and the combat system offers new tactical options, like suppressing an enemy by attacking weak points, or breaking their resolve without killing them. This gives players even more new paths and opportunities to play the game their way.
The alpha will stay open for several months; fans can join at any time by becoming Founders. Player feedback will be integrated into the beta and final version of Warhammer 40,000: Dark Heresy.
