The Ukrainian city of Mariupol has faced severe devastation as a result of Russia’s invasion in 2022. The heavy bombardment led to the destruction of residential buildings, displacement of thousands of people, and an overall loss of heritage. The city has been under Russian occupation for almost two years, during which significant changes have been made to the urban landscape.
Hollow Home, a role-playing game inspired by Disco Elysium, serves as a memory of Mariupol before the war. While not an exact replica, the game meticulously captures the essence of the city through details, colors, and characters. Developed shortly after Mariupol’s occupation, Hollow Home draws from journalistic coverage of the invasion but presents a fictional narrative. Players take on the role of 14-year-old Maksym, navigating the challenges of survival and assisting others in the midst of turmoil.
Unlike traditional RPGs, Hollow Home does not focus on combat or explicit violence. Instead, it delves into the repercussions of war on civilians and the gradual deterioration of neighborhoods as residents face adversity. Through its narrative and gameplay mechanics, the game sheds light on the resilience and struggles of individuals amidst a war-torn environment.
In Hollow Home, players manage a limited supply of action points each day, utilizing them for tasks like cooking and first aid based on character traits. The game’s pre-war section introduces players to a community filled with diverse personalities, offering a glimpse into ordinary life before the conflict. As the narrative progresses, players witness the transformation of the city, the emergence of new establishments like shelters and volunteer centers, and the influx of new characters.
While Hollow Home provides a unique perspective on the events in Mariupol, questions arise about its portrayal of a real-world tragedy as a commercial product. The game’s developer’s intention to memorialize the city’s story is juxtaposed with the reality of marketing a video game on platforms like Steam. The juxtaposition prompts reflection on the ethics of turning a poignant narrative into a source of entertainment.
Hollow Home is set for release in 2025, promising players approximately 24 hours of gameplay across three districts of the city. As the game navigates themes of loss, survival, and resilience, it serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of those affected by war. Through its storytelling and gameplay, Hollow Home invites players to contemplate the human cost of conflict and the importance of preserving narratives in the face of adversity.
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