Story

This is a work-in-progress scratch pad with notes on the story content for Shift: Prelude.

Vignettes

Something is wrong with the machine...

During the first mission, at some point the 'Link' counter will begin counting down very fast, regardless of the player's actions. Dialog between the wizard (who is back in the Tower, sort of like operators in The Matrix) will speak to the player about "something being wrong with the machine (spell?)". The player will then forcibly be returned to the tower, and the wizard will have some dialog about the problem, and reminding the Shifter that they can only remain in a world while the Link persists. Once that expires, they can never return.

This will serve as an in-game tutorial of sorts that introduces the player to the Link system.

Skull and Bones

Upon completing the Skull and Bones mission, the Shifter will have an interaction with the Wizard. The wizard will take the ring retrieved on the expedition, and throw it carelessly into a huge box full of seemingly-identical rings. This should be portrayed as very odd, and cast some suspicion on the wizards motives.

Branching Points

Culling of Nowheresville

One expedition should be to a small village, with no monsters -- only humans that can easily be slaughtered. The expedition's objective should be somewhat grotesque, and there should be a very notable reward for the player if they engage in the slaughter. Declining this mission will branch the story heavily towards the "redemption" ending.