So what is my problem
Upon the game's announcement, I was optimistic about Exodus. However, with every new detail that emerges, my enthusiasm is gradually giving way to reservation. One particular aspect that caught my attention is the incorporation of the Theory of Relativity. While I appreciate the acknowledgment of this scientific concept, I'm concerned about its impact the overall game world.
Mass Effect, a game series that successfully navigated the intricacies of space travel, introduced the Mass Effect theory. This concept allowed for vast interstellar journeys without the burden of time paradoxes. The key lay in the name itself – the "mass effect" suppressed potential time paradoxes and facilitated faster-than-light (FTL) speeds. In Exodus, however, it seems like we might be on the verge of discarding years with every interstellar leap. This poses a challenge to the established lore, as the current backstories released so far don't align with the constraints such a relativistic model would impose. And the world had to change significant with bigger jumps. And when we come back to an earlier part of the Game, all established Characters should be dead by that point, if the near light speed jump was big enough.
Will Exodus confine its narrative to a relatively small space to mitigate these issues? If so, it could clash with the expansive worldbuilding we've seen in the released backstories about a vast big world. It raises questions about how the developers plan to seamlessly integrate the Theory of Relativity without compromising the essence of the game's universe.
The introduction of awakened animals in Exodus marks a pivotal juncture, and it's where my reservations intensify. While I acknowledge the scientific fact that humans share approximately 98% of their genetics with pigs, the idea of uplifting animals raises a host of ethical and narrative challenges.
Consider the potential story arc that could unfold across the series: the historical subjugation and enslavement of uplifted animals. Yes, they are now intelligent, but the unsettling truth is that throughout human history, we have exploited every available animal in myriad ways, often with little regard for their well-being. This concept opens a Pandora's box of ethical dilemmas that I'm skeptical a triple-A game can adequately address.
In expressing these concerns, it's important to clarify that my reservations about Exodus do not equate to a belief in its failure. On the contrary, I'm genuinely hopeful that the game will stimulate my mind and offer fresh perspectives on the world. My skepticism, however, lies in the inherent challenges of such a monumental project.
I acknowledge the talent and capabilities of the individuals at ARCHETYPE ENTERTAINMENT. It's not a question of their competence but rather a consideration of the constraints within a large-scale production like Exodus. The intricacies of the Theory of Relativity and the ethical minefield presented by awakened animals demand a delicate touch and nuanced exploration. Whether the expansive nature of a big-budget game allows for the depth and nuance required remains to be seen.
I maintain my optimism but temper it with a sense of realism. I'm not extinguishing my hope for an exceptional gaming experience, but I'm also cautious about crafting expectations that might not align with the inherent challenges of such a vast and ambitious undertaking.