Cultist Simulator is a unique and immersive card-based simulation game developed by Alexis Kennedy and released in 2018. Players assume the role of a seeker of forbidden knowledge in a world rife with occultism and dark secrets. The gameplay revolves around managing a tableau of cards that represent various aspects of life, including health, reason, funds, and mysteries, while engaging in a deeper exploration of cults, rituals, and philosophical pursuits. Players can explore their character's ambitions, collect various resources, and ultimately work toward summoning powerful entities or founding their own cult.
The game is set in a richly crafted narrative environment that encourages experimentation and strategic thinking. As players progress, they must navigate through complex themes of ambition, insanity, and the consequences of their decisions. The interaction between cards and the emergent nature of the gameplay leads to a highly personalized journey, where each playthrough can result in vastly different outcomes and stories. Cultist Simulator's blend of storytelling, strategy, and atmospherics coupled with its minimalist art style creates a haunting experience that challenges players to delve deeper into the abyss of their own motivations and the hidden lore of the game world.