2019's Greedfall was something of a sleeper hit for us, a classic BioWare-style RPG with a fantastic story that really dug into player choice and what it meant for shaping the future of a world. Developer Spiders always gives its all ambition-wise, with its latest game Steelrising taking place in an alternate Paris, 1789.

And that's alternate in the sense that you take on the role of an machine in a world where "Louis XVI and his merciless mechanical army" are wreaking havok. So yeah, basically the French Revolution... with robots.

Over the break we got our first look at gameplay, showcasing combat, exploration, some of the itemisation, and even a big ol' boss battle. Although the performance is a little rough (this is very much pre-release code), it's looking promising.

As Paris burns and bleeds during the Revolution, you are Aegis, an automaton masterpiece made by Vaucanson, an engineer in the service of the Clockwork King. Make the most of your mechanical prowess to adapt Aegis to your style of play and become a fearsome warrior, a deadly dancer, or a virtuoso of elemental arts.

Engage in ruthless and intense fights against technological marvels that are as complex as they are unforgiving. Your nerves and skills will be tested to their limits at every moment spent battling these relentless enemies and epic bosses.

The City of Light has been plunged into darkness and needs you. Use your energy, flexibility and tools to navigate the streets, rooftops, neighborhoods and castles of Paris and reveal hidden secrets.

Delve into an enthralling alternate history filled with formidable mechanical enemies and potential allies with questionable motives. You are the only one you can count on to untangle the knots of history and ensure the Revolution succeeds.

Steelrising is on track for release across PC and consoles on September 8, 2022.