“A Royal Affair” is an interactive fiction game where you navigate the world of Westerlin royalty and the prestigious Archambault Academy. This guide provides parents with insights into the game’s content, themes, and suitability for different age groups. Players will face complex choices, forge relationships, and grapple with political and social issues relevant to the fictional world.
Story and Setting
Set several years after “Crème de la Crème,” “A Royal Affair” places you in the role of a Westerlind royal family member attending Archambault Academy. The Academy is an exclusive boarding school nestled in the mountains of Westerlin, catering to royalty, aristocrats, and the wealthy elite. Here, Westerlin’s future leaders are cultivated in leadership, rhetoric, and politics.
Westerlin, the game’s setting, reflects a society with a formal culture within its upper classes. The political landscape is marked by limited democratic participation, where only adult property owners can vote. However, the winds of change are blowing, with activists advocating for universal voting rights.
Playable Characters and Customization
The game offers diverse representation, allowing you to play as male, female, or non-binary characters. You can also explore various sexual orientations, including gay, straight, bi, pan, asexual, and/or aromantic.
Continuity with “Crème de la Crème” is maintained, allowing you to customize elements from the previous game, such as:
- Protagonist name and pronouns
- Personality (“scheming and sharp”, “bold and no-nonsense”, “flighty and charming”, “graceful and calm”, “earnest and helpful”)
- Romance and engagement choices
- Impact on Lady Renaldt and Gallatin College
This customization enhances the player’s connection to the game world and provides a tailored experience.
Key Characters
“A Royal Affair” features a cast of characters that players can befriend, romance, or rival. Here are some notable figures:
- Asher Garnett: Your dedicated bodyguard, raised in a family traditionally serving the Crown.
- Lord/Lady/Noble Laurie Beaumont: A wealthy and enigmatic heir to a financial empire, both admired and misunderstood by the Academy staff.
- Honorable Dominique de Saint Martel: An enthusiastic and sociable individual with close ties to the royal family, offering opportunities for friendship, rivalry, or romance.
- Hyacinthe Van Clare: A gifted ballet dancer from Gallatin College, known for their politeness and captivating stage presence.
- Prince/Princess/Heir Javi of Zaledo: A skeptical and flamboyant royal with a passion for the arts, who may initially be resistant to your character.
- Estell Trevelyan: The Head Prefect at Gallatin College, a passionate advocate for universal suffrage with political ambitions.
Romance and Relationships
The game explores diverse relationship dynamics, including monogamy, parallel romances, and polyamorous relationships.
- Some characters, like Asher and Hyacinthe, prefer monogamous relationships.
- Beaumont and Trevelyan can be romanced separately or as a triad.
- Dominique can be romanced alongside Beaumont or Trevelyan under specific conditions.
- Javi is asexual and does not engage in kissing or sexual activity.
Themes and Content Considerations
“A Royal Affair” delves into themes such as:
- Political Intrigue: Players navigate political landscapes, make decisions that impact Westerlin society, and confront issues of social justice.
- Social Class: The game explores the dynamics between the aristocracy and ordinary citizens, highlighting the privileges and responsibilities associated with royalty.
- Personal Identity: Players can shape their character’s personality, values, and relationships, exploring themes of self-discovery and personal growth.
- Romantic Relationships: The game offers a variety of romantic options, allowing players to explore different types of relationships and navigate complex emotional situations.
Parents should be aware that the game contains mature themes and may include:
- Discussions of political and social issues
- Romantic relationships, including same-sex relationships
- Character rivalries and conflicts
- Occasional references to mature topics
Parent’s Guide Summary
“A Royal Affair” is an engaging interactive fiction game that offers players a chance to explore themes of royalty, politics, and personal identity within a fictional world. While the game contains mature themes and content, it provides opportunities for players to develop critical thinking skills, explore different perspectives, and make choices that shape the narrative. Parents are encouraged to consider their child’s maturity level and discuss the game’s themes with them to enhance their understanding and enjoyment.
