When one heads onto Steam, it is clear that there are plenty of Early Access titles that are great ideas but not exactly solid in their execution. However, for Team 17 and Sole Survivor Games‘ management title, Honey, I Joined A Cult, there is certainly something of a rough diamond there waiting to be uncovered.
The premise is quite straightforward, the player is looking to establish a cult after some trouble with the law, and the more followers you have, the more leverage you’ll get when it comes to clout, income, and more. Right from the start, the game shows off its quirky personality with the customisation of the cult.
You can choose how your leader looks like, the various information of your chosen cult, the cultists, as well as the supposed godly being that is at the heart of everything. With plenty of choices and certainly more to come, it is quite enjoyable trying to create something unique and an identity you actually believe in. If that is not quintessentially the cult experience, we don’t know what is.
Once things kick off in Honey, I Joined A Cult, the more familiar traits of a management sim come into play. Base building will provide rooms for your followers to carry out their activities and work, and are excellent for converting visitors to your cause. Your people do not just run on faith alone, however, so providing the necessary facilities and tools can allow them to be more efficient and become better at their jobs.
Your cult leader will run sermons, and try to keep everything from falling apart. Of course, you will have to contend with outside influences, and sending your followers on missions can open up even more of the world to stick your cult fingers into.
The game’s style is quite reminiscent of Prison Architect, and that is not a bad bar to aim for. The simple design allows for better visibility across various aspects of Honey, I Joined A Cult, but also have enough style to make it an attractive experience.
Obviously, with the game still in Early Access, performance is not exactly smooth. There are certain instances where progress was halted due to an item or follower breaking, and there is still some balancing work to be done when it comes to assigning work priorities for your followers.
At this stage, Honey, I Joined A Cult has all the makings of an addictive management sim. The subject matter is fresh, the gameplay is robust, and the game shines both visually and in its use of music. Needless to say, we are more than excited to try out the final build of the game when it releases, and explore a potential career switch to being a cult personality.
Jake is a full-time trophy hunter and achievement gatherer on consoles, and part-time Steam Sale victim. He has a thing for Batman and awesome statues, and running out of space for both. Send help.
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Ryan Michael Chin
