Depths of Peril Interview

Soldak Entertainment's Steven Peeler took the time to answer a handful of questions about Depths of Peril over at GameZone.
Q: The game is billed as an action RPG with strategic elements. It seems to have incorporated some of those elements that are usually associated with RTS games. If true, how were you able to meld the two genres together?

A: Actually, Depths of Peril probably has more in common with games like Civilization since RTS games rarely have trade and diplomacy. The most important strategy element we have is multiple factions vying for control of the city. Unlike an RTS, you can trade, use diplomacy, and even form alliances with these other factions. Although when it comes to war and raids we are a little closer to an RTS game since they are all real time. You only control your one character directly however rather than controlling an army like a typical RTS game.

Melding the two genres together was part of our original concept, and we have never intended to be a full RPG and a full strategy game at the same time. We started with an action RPG and added the basic idea of barbarian faction wars to the game. Then we have very selectively brought over only strategy game elements that fit and support this gameplay.