1348: Ex Voto

1348: Ex Voto is a third-person action game. Set in Italy during the late Middle Ages, the game takes place amid the social upheaval and devastation caused by the outbreak of the Black Death in the mid-14th century. The story follows Aeta, a young knight-errant, who embarks on a journey across plague-stricken regions of Italy in search of her kidnapped companion Bianca.

The narrative begins with Aeta and Bianca sparring before their village is attacked by bandits. During the raid Bianca is abducted, prompting Aeta to swear an “ex voto”, a vow made in exchange for divine intervention, to rescue her. Aeta then travels through rural settlements, castles, and ruined landscapes across the Italian peninsula while confronting bandits, mercenaries, and religious zealots. The game's setting depicts a society destabilized by disease, violence, and political tension as the plague spreads through cities and countryside.

Gameplay is presented from a third-person perspective and focuses on sword-based combat. Players control Aeta using two combat stances, one-handed and two-handed, allowing different attack patterns and defensive options. Combat involves timed strikes, parries, and counters against enemies with recognizable attack patterns. New abilities can be unlocked through collectible skill books, and the player can modify Aeta's weapon using interchangeable parts that alter combat performance.

The game progresses through a largely linear series of environments representing medieval Italy, including villages, mountain landscapes of the Apennines, and ruins dating back to classical Rome. While exploring these locations, players can gather healing items, collectibles, and upgrade materials that expand Aeta's abilities.