Summary

Release Year: 2015
Genres: Adventure, Indie, Role-playing game (RPG)
Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: ToMorning Productions
Publishers: ToMorning Productions

You Are Not the Hero (2015): A Refreshing Take on the RPG Genre

In the realm of video games, the role of the hero is often a predefined one: a brave and noble warrior, a skilled and righteous mage, or a cunning and charismatic rogue. But what if you could step into the shoes of someone more ordinary, someone who is not destined to save the world but simply trying to survive in the midst of chaos?

You Are Not the Hero (2015) is a 2D action platformer RPG that dares to challenge the traditional hero archetype. Instead of playing as a legendary warrior or a powerful wizard, you take on the role of Petula, an unemployed, emotionally charged, ill-tempered, otherwise average young woman.

A Relatable and Unconventional Protagonist

Petula is not your typical video game protagonist. She’s not particularly strong, skilled, or brave. She’s just an ordinary woman trying to make her way in a world that’s suddenly become very dangerous.

When the royal army and a group of heroes descend upon her village, Petula is forced to confront them for stealing her pendant. In a fit of anger, she demands that they return it, and to her surprise, they agree to her quest.

A Unique Blend of Action and RPG Gameplay

You Are Not the Hero ditches the traditional battle system in favor of richer RPG gameplay elements. As Petula, you’ll explore a variety of environments, solve puzzles, and interact with a cast of quirky characters.

Combat is fast-paced and visceral, with Petula using her fists, feet, and a variety of improvised weapons to fight off enemies. However, unlike many other RPGs, there are no experience points or levels to grind. Instead, Petula’s abilities are determined by the choices you make throughout the game.

Choices that Shape the Story

One of the most unique aspects of You Are Not the Hero is its branching narrative. Your choices throughout the game, both big and small, will affect the story’s progression and ending.

For example, early on in the game, you’re given the choice of whether to help a group of villagers who are being harassed by the royal army. If you choose to help them, you’ll gain their trust and support, which could come in handy later on. However, if you choose to ignore them, they may turn against you, making your journey more difficult.

A Thought-Provoking Exploration of Morality

You Are Not the Hero is not just a fun and challenging game; it’s also a thought-provoking exploration of morality. As Petula, you’ll be faced with a variety of difficult choices that will test your sense of right and wrong.

For example, at one point in the game, you’re given the opportunity to steal from a wealthy merchant. If you choose to do so, you’ll gain some much-needed money, but you’ll also damage your reputation. If you choose to leave the merchant alone, you’ll maintain your integrity, but you may miss out on a valuable opportunity.

A Memorable and Rewarding Experience

You Are Not the Hero is a unique and memorable RPG experience that will stay with you long after you finish playing. It’s a game that challenges the traditional hero archetype and explores the complexities of morality.

With its engaging story, well-developed characters, and innovative gameplay, You Are Not the Hero is a must-play for fans of RPGs and action games alike.

Key Features:

Play as an unconventional hero: Petula, an unemployed, emotionally charged, ill-tempered, otherwise average young woman.
Explore a variety of environments, solve puzzles, and interact with a cast of quirky characters.
Experience fast-paced and visceral combat with a variety of improvised weapons.
Make choices that shape the story’s progression and ending.
Explore thought-provoking themes of morality and the consequences of your actions.

Pros:

Unique and refreshing take on the RPG genre
Relatable and unconventional protagonist
Engaging story with branching narrative
Innovative gameplay that blends action and RPG elements
Thought-provoking exploration of morality

Cons:

Some players may find the lack of a traditional battle system to be a turn-off
The game can be challenging at times, especially for those who are not used to action games
The story can be somewhat linear at times, with less player agency than some other RPGs