Arcadie Second-Born is a visual novel that places you at a pivotal moment in the history of a kingdom defined by centuries of war. As the second-born royal and second-in-line to the throne, you are put in charge of all future dealings with your age-old enemies just as a new peace treaty is set to be signed. Your actions will determine whether this new era brings lasting peace or precipitates another century of conflict.
The game offers deep character customization, allowing you to create a protagonist that truly reflects your choices. You can choose to be male or female, with options for gay, straight, or bisexual relationships. Your personality is shaped by your actions and dialogue – will you be friendly and conciliatory, a wisecracking charmer, or an antagonist to anyone who approaches? You can also specialize in skills like Swordsmanship or Statecraft and even explore a mystical power wielded by your ancestors.
Your journey is shared with a vivid cast of characters, each with their own goals and motivations. You can gain their support, foster friendships, or pursue naturally evolving romantic relationships that can be steamy, sweet, passionate, or even thoroughly ill-advised. These relationships will, in turn, change the story in both small and significant ways.
Player agency is central to the experience. You have the freedom to save and load your progress at any time and even change your choices should you desire. Ultimately, your decisions throughout the story will lead to one of several different endings, shaping not only your destiny but the future of the entire Kingdom of Arcadie.