The Council

The Council is an episodic narrative adventure told across five episodes. You play as Louis de Richet, a member of a secret society, and use skills, investigation and choices to navigate a story of intrigue and manipulation. Decisions have permanent consequences, and there is no way to take an action back.

A gathering on the island

The story begins in 1793, when the enigmatic Lord Mortimer invites Louis to a private island off the shores of England. Among the high-profile guests are Napoleon Bonaparte and George Washington, president of the newly formed United States of America. Louis’s mother has recently gone missing on the island, and the other guests each have their own hidden agendas. You investigate the island’s mysteries while dealing with a cast of characters who conceal dark secrets.

Influence and consequences

The Social Influence system centers on manipulating and maneuvering through encounters with other characters. During confrontations, you can use skills and limited resources to gain an advantage and pursue a desired outcome. Knowledge of each character’s psychological vulnerabilities and immunities, along with preparation from earlier exploration and investigation, can help you succeed. Failing an encounter does not end the game, but its consequences remain and may leave Louis with physical disfigurements or mental traits that affect the rest of the adventure.

Develop your skills

You can develop Louis’s skills to suit your approach. Diplomacy can help resolve issues, occultism expands your historical and scientific knowledge, and detective skills help you perceive what others miss. The 15 skills have uses beyond conversations with the guests, and you can invest in them as you uncover the mysteries. Your methods shape the consequences for Louis and those around him, and alter the course of history.