THE COUNCIL: HIDDEN GEM REVIEW
THE COUNCIL: HIDDEN GEM REVIEW
The Council is a fascinating, episodic narrative set in the 1790’s. Players assume the role of Louis de Richet, a young member of the secret Golden Order. Louis has been invited to the island estate of Lord William Mortimer, an extremely influential dignitary and power player in the governments and social orders of the world. Louis’ mother, Sarah, a senior member of the Golden Order, has gone missing on the island, and Lord Mortimer has summoned Louis to find her. On the island, Mortimer is hosting a council of some of the world’s biggest power players, including the likes of President George Washington, Napoleon Bonaparte, Cardinal Piaggi, Duchess Emily Hillsborrow, and several other luminaries. Sarah de Richet is a member of this council, but since she’s missing, Louis is also given the task of voting in her stead on a decision that will have huge repercussions in shaping the fate and futures of several countries.
"MUST MAKE USE OF HIS SKILLS AND INTELLECT"
While Louis is investigating his mother’s disappearance, and learning to play this most dangerous political game, he must make use of his skills and intellect to uncover the truth. Players choose at the beginning of the story, what character class they wish to be, and the choice of how they will build from there, belongs to them. One can start as an investigator, occult expert, or as someone well versed in political/social maneuvers. Choosing one of these classes does not stop the player from adding skill points to the other categories as they progress in the story. Along with these skill points and classes, players are encouraged to find and equip skill books, and to use various boosters they find throughout the mansion. These boosters include Golden Elixir, Devil’s Thorn, Honey and Jam, and Carmelite Water. Golden Elixir removes negative effects, Devil’s Thorn reveals an individual’s weaknesses and immunities, Honey and Jam restore action points, and Carmelite Water makes the next action cost zero action points.
"LOVECRAFTIAN POLITICAL THRILLER"
If you love episodic narratives and investigative, political thrillers, then you should definitely check out The Council. While the game lacks some polish that a traditional AAA studio brings, the tile is absolutely worth your time. The story goes in directions that are completely shocking, but fit in the narrative and world setting. Think of it as a Lovecraftian political thriller, filled with dark mysterious forces and the clear and present dangers of secret political societies.
Misc. Reviewed on Xbox One X, solid visuals and voice acting for the most part, fascinating world and setting that feels true to the time period.