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Deceive Inc is one game that fans of multiplayer spy games might want to keep an eye on. Developed by the relatively-obscure Sweet Bandits Studios, Deceive Inc aims to put a fresh spin on the PVP social deception sub-genre. And, like any other secret agent, you will have many questionably-legal toys to get the job done. As the game’s Steam product description outlines, the player will be free to:
“…disguise [themselves] as anyone [they] meet, in an instant, and have access to state-of-the-art gadgets the rest of the world can only dream of, and possess skills that would make Hollywood super spies jealous.”
The developers describe Deceive Inc as a 70’s-inspired world meshed with modern or near-future technology.
“Imagine if the current world was influenced by 70s sensibilities and aesthetics—the vibes, the music, etc. But [at the same time] it’s very much a modern world, where technology has advanced. We wanted to capture the themes of spy movies, but set that in an environment where you play against other people.”
Dangerous enemies, Troublesome Obstacles, Oh My!
As a PVP-oriented game, there will be plenty of opposition and danger for players to contend with. While each map will present its inherent obstacles, other players will often prove the most significant challenge to overcome.
“Rival spies are after the same objective and every single one of them is as skilled, cunning and well-equipped as you are.”
The layouts of each map in Deceive Inc will be inherently different from one another. The one thing they all share in common? Each map’s layout is designed from the ground up to encourage players to strategize. Some solutions require a brain, not just a gun.
“Infiltrate sprawling locations filled with people to suspect, electronics to hack, restricted areas to trespass in and windows to jump from. How you get inside the vault and steal the objective is entirely up to you… and all the rival spies who will stop at nothing to beat you to it. No pressure.”
There Can Only Be One…
The gameplay formula does incorporate some battle royale elements. While many players can compete against one another, there can only be one winner. Whether you choose to operate alone or work together before later betraying your ally is up to you.
“Blend in, grab the objective and break out. In the end, only one spy can complete the mission and get the paycheck. Company policy.”
When Does Deceive Inc Release?
The developers have partnered with Tripwire Interactive to publish the game. Tripwire Interactive has maintained a long history of producing quality first-party games. However, their experience as a publisher has been a bit more limited.
If you’re looking for a potentially-fun spy game where you’ll find yourself shaken but not stirred, Deceive Inc is worth keeping an eye out for. No release date has yet been announced. However, the state of development indicated in the developer diary makes it seem likely that an announcement isn’t too far off.