In the Worshippers of Cthulhu game, we are trying to establish a large society by feeding on Cthulhu’s divine powers.
In the Worshippers of Cthulhu game, we start on a map consisting of medium-sized islands in the middle of the sea. The islands are full of Cthulhu statues, magical structures, altars and temples, but we need to reawaken this ancient wisdom and magic. All of these are seen as ways to bring ancient gods called the Great Old Ones to the world. While doing this, the city-building simulation comes into play.
We start the game by cutting wood, producing lumber and building houses with the first people on the first island we are on. Then, we meet the basic needs of the society with mussel collectors, corn fields, sheep fields, while at the same time earning their favor by giving sacrifices to the gods.
Why is this favor important? You can think of these favors as the technology tree in classic city-building simulations. As the gods grant us favor, we can build new buildings and advance our society. The business of earning favor can be confusing or challenging for those who say, “I’ll just build my city,” but this is what sets Worshippers of Cthulhu apart from other games. There is no money in the game, instead there is favor. To earn this, you can meet the needs of the society and turn them into a disciple of Cthulhu or you can make sacrifices to the gods. In this way, the gods give you favor in proportion to your disciples or in return for sacrifices. In this way, we unlock new buildings and develop our society.