In the latest developer blog, Forbidden Studios revealed a large chunk of the story for the highly anticipated survival game Among the Trolls. We also got a deeper look at gameplay details.

Story

Among the Trolls’ story came to be when the studio’s CEO Veli Kokkonen had a chat with some of his friends who study Finnish folklore and ancient artisan crafts. These discussions led to conversations about how the world of today would be if these tales were real, and this gave Veli the idea to make Among the Trolls. 

You start the game by choosing to play as either Anna or Alex, a Finnish/American living in America. After the passing of their parents, they decide to head back to Finland to an old cabin that belonged to their grandparents. Upon arrival, Anna/Alex rent a rowboat to cross the river to get to their location before night falls. Out of nowhere a giant pike-looking creature smashes the boat into pieces and drags the character deep underwater where they pass out. They have later washed ashore but they do not see the cabin or their grandparents in sight even though this must be the right island. Night has fallen and your character is hungry, thirsty, and cold. This is where the game starts.

Crafting and building

A unique feature of Among the Trolls is the ability to create familiars, these creatures will help you on your journey to find your grandparents. A few craftable tools were mentioned like axes, knives, and spears (multiple meaning we will be able to make better ones down the road). From the tools mentioned, we can conclude hunting and skinning the animals will be a feature as well as the ability to chop trees. 

The building will use a modular system, similar to Subnatica, making it very easy to construct grand buildings. 

Survival

To survive in this world the player must sacrifice something to the spirits and cupstones which can be found across the map. Cupstones are made out of several large rocks with indentations carved in them. In offering up something you ward off corrupted creatures. 

This is a summary of the dev blog. I think the use of Finnish folklore is an interesting take on the survival genre.

What do you think of Among the Trolls so far? Let me know in the comments.