Hundred Fires: The Rising of Red Star – Episode III

In the Cold War thriller Hundred Fires: The Rising of Red Star – Episode III, players assume the role of Montenegro, combining stealth and shooter mechanics across first and third-person perspectives as they race to rescue his daughter Merche in a high-stakes, action-packed finale.

Hundred Fires: The Rising of Red Star – Episode III: Review

Introduction

In the crowded landscape of stealth-action games, Hundred Fires: The Rising of Red Star – Episode III stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Cold War espionage narratives. Developed by David Amado Fernández under the banner of Naili Studio, this concluding chapter of the Hundred Fires trilogy delivers a gripping, cinematic experience that blends tactical gameplay with a deeply personal story. As a professional game journalist and historian, I argue that Episode III not only caps off its trilogy with a satisfying finale but also solidifies the series as a niche but significant entry in the stealth genre, offering a unique blend of humor, drama, and Cold War intrigue.

Development History & Context

The Studio and Its Vision

David Amado Fernández, the sole developer behind Hundred Fires, is a one-man studio operating under Naili Studio. His vision for the series has always been to create a game that captures the tension and atmosphere of Cold War espionage, drawing inspiration from classic titles like Metal Gear Solid and Splinter Cell. The Hundred Fires trilogy, released episodically between 2021 and 2023, follows the adventures of Montenegro, a lone operative navigating a world on the brink of nuclear conflict.

Technological Constraints and the Gaming Landscape

Released in September 2023, Episode III arrived during a time when indie developers were increasingly leveraging the Unity engine to create polished, narrative-driven experiences. The game’s modest system requirements (running on Windows 10 with an Intel Core i3 or AMD Phenom II processor and an Nvidia 900 series graphics card) reflect its indie roots, but its ambition is evident in its cinematic presentation and intricate level design. The stealth genre was dominated by AAA titles like Hitman and Dishonored, but Hundred Fires carved out a space for itself by focusing on a more grounded, personal story.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Plot and Characters

The story of Episode III picks up where Episode II left off, with Montenegro on a desperate mission to rescue his daughter, Merche, from Soviet captivity. The narrative is driven by a mix of personal stakes and geopolitical tension, as Montenegro uncovers a conspiracy that threatens to plunge the world into chaos. The dialogue is sharp, often laced with dark humor, and the characters are well-developed, particularly Montenegro, whose moral ambiguity and relentless determination make him a compelling protagonist.

Themes and Dialogue

The game explores themes of family, sacrifice, and the moral ambiguities of war. Montenegro’s journey is not just about completing missions but also about confronting his past and the choices that led him to this point. The dialogue is a standout feature, with witty one-liners and moments of genuine emotion that elevate the storytelling beyond typical stealth-game tropes.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Core Gameplay Loops

Episode III is a stealth-action game at its core, requiring players to navigate heavily guarded Soviet facilities while avoiding detection. The gameplay loop revolves around reconnaissance, planning, and execution, with a strong emphasis on environmental interaction. Players can hide in lockers, use distractions to misdirect guards, and employ a variety of weapons and gadgets to overcome obstacles.

Combat and Progression

Combat is brutal and unforgiving, reinforcing the idea that Montenegro is outnumbered and outgunned. The game encourages stealth over direct confrontation, with lethal and non-lethal takedowns available but limited ammunition and resources. Progression is tied to unlocking new areas and acquiring better equipment, rather than traditional leveling systems.

UI and Innovations

The UI is minimalistic, keeping the player focused on the environment and the immediate threats. One innovative feature is the “focus” mechanic, which allows Montenegro to highlight interactive objects and enemies, aiding in stealth planning. However, the game lacks some polish in its controls, particularly in the precision of movement and interaction.

World-Building, Art & Sound

Setting and Atmosphere

The game is set in a Cold War-era Europe, with levels ranging from Soviet military bases to abandoned cities. The world-building is impressive for an indie title, with attention to detail in the architecture and environmental storytelling. The atmosphere is tense and claustrophobic, enhancing the sense of isolation and danger.

Visual Direction

The art style is realistic but stylized, with a color palette that emphasizes the grimness of the setting. The character models and animations are serviceable, though not on par with AAA titles. The level design is a highlight, with well-crafted layouts that encourage multiple approaches to each objective.

Sound Design

The sound design is excellent, with immersive ambient noise and a subtle but effective score that heightens the tension. The voice acting is solid, particularly Montenegro’s performance, which conveys the character’s exhaustion and determination.

Reception & Legacy

Critical and Commercial Reception

At launch, Episode III received positive reviews from players, praising its story, atmosphere, and gameplay. However, it lacked widespread critical attention, likely due to its indie status and the dominance of AAA titles in the stealth genre. The game’s commercial performance was modest, but its cult following has grown over time.

Influence and Evolution

The Hundred Fires trilogy has influenced other indie developers to explore Cold War settings and personal narratives in stealth games. Its legacy lies in its ability to tell a compelling story on a small budget, proving that indie developers can compete with larger studios in terms of narrative depth and gameplay innovation.

Conclusion

Hundred Fires: The Rising of Red Star – Episode III is a triumphant conclusion to a trilogy that has flown under the radar for too long. Its blend of stealth-action gameplay, rich storytelling, and Cold War atmosphere makes it a standout title in the indie scene. While it may not have the polish or budget of AAA competitors, its heart and ambition shine through. For fans of stealth games and Cold War narratives, Episode III is a must-play, and it cements the Hundred Fires series as a notable entry in video game history.