Editor’s note: This piece contains minor spoilers

If you love Greek Mythology, television shows with random musical numbers, musical theater or choose-your-own-adventure stories, listen up. This video game is a must play. 

OVERVIEW

Stray Gods was developed by Summerfall Studios and published by Humble Games on Aug. 10. “Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical” follows Grace after she is turned into an idol, the term for a god, by the dying muse of epic poetry, Calliope. Dropping out of college months before her life became intertwined with mythology, music provided Grace with a way to find her way again. Using her new ability to make those surrounding her sing their deepest truths, Grace must prove her innocence to the chorus of idols or face death. With the help of her mortal friend Freddie and possibly untrustworthy idols, Grace embarks on a journey to find Calliope’s killer.

MUSIC

I thoroughly enjoyed the entirety of the game, with the musical numbers being the cherry on top. The soundtrack and musical numbers stood out to me. This being a choose-your-own-adventure game, the player decides what verses they sing or respond with, and if they channel their charisma, anger or wit. Music is a big part of the game, and plot points, motives and backstory are provided through intricate songs, and is deeply rooted in Grace. 

The voice acting is also incredible, and I enjoyed hearing Laura Bailey voice Grace, Felicia Day voice Athena and Anthony Rapp voice Orpheus. The use of recurring melodies is haunting and adds to the atmosphere. The combination of the game animation and music creates a captivating game hard to walk away from. 

A NEW STORY

“Stray Gods” tells a refreshing story. Ancient Greek mythology is the basis of dozens of modern stories and art, but “Stray Gods” sets itself apart by altering the lore. Persephone is punk, Aphrodite is haunted by her past and immortality is not what is expected. By having the story take place in the 21st century in an unnamed American city, “Stray Gods” brings refreshing modern views to old stories. The modern setting and unique character design connect modern viewers to ancient themes. It asks the question, how can we live with the new while still honoring the old?

STRAY GODS ON MENTAL HEALTH

Being immortal is shown as an emotional curse and is responsible for the actions of the idols. The eidolon, soul, of an idol carries on from the idol after death to a new chosen idol, and the memories carry on. 

The modern audience can connect to the idol’s struggle to live with the pain of the past, and immortality does not solve issues. Immortality causes characters to be haunted by the past, hold on to ancient grudges and lose hope for the future. Humans are the enemy in the eye of the eidolons, an enemy they seek not to provoke. This is a shift from the original Greek gods, a force humans honored, feared and avoided meddling with.

Overall, Stray Gods is the musical choice-led video game you need to get lost in. The game can be found on all major game platforms.