The Path now released and ready for travelling

Written by Jack Allin — March 19, 2009 at 11:49

For independent developer Tale of Tales, the long journey along The Path is now over, but it's only beginning today for gamers, as the "artistic horror adventure" has been released for purchase and download.

Loosely based on the story of Little Red Riding Hood and called "a new type of game" by its ambitious creators, The Path casts players in the roles of six sisters sent, one by one, to visit their grandmother in the forest, with only one instruction: don't stray from the path. But of course, "there's plenty of fun to be had in the woods. And even a friend to meet. But every forest contains a wolf. And though he may appear to be friendly or harmless, or even attractive, there should be no doubt about his evil intent. The question, however, is: wouldn't it be worth it? Even if it leads to a certain end, wouldn't the experience make up for that?" This is the question that players will need to answer for themselves.

Unlike other games, including adventures, The Path promises to forsake typical gaming "rules" in favour of entirely optional activities and free exploration. And defying yet another norm, directors Auriea Harvey and Michael Samyn reveal that the game "ends with death. But despite the gloomy and sometimes unsettling atmosphere, The Path contains a positive message: enjoy life to the fullest, no matter how short it may be!"

The Path is available only through digital download for $9.99 USD, and can be found at such portals as Steam, Direct2Drive, and the developer's own website.