Mentopolis, the latest season of actual play from Dimension 20, is a captivating blend of noir and sci-fi. Set in a city housed within the mind of Dr. Elias Hodge, a pharmaceutical researcher plagued by guilt, this season explores the consequences of his impulsive act of rebellion. With influences from Metropolis and Inside Out, Mentopolis delves into the moral dilemmas faced by its characters.
The story kicks off when wealthy heiress Imelda Pulse hires private investigator Hunch Curio to follow newsie Conrad Schintz. Meanwhile, a larger conspiracy unfolds as the mayor hires The Fix to eliminate Conrad’s subliminal moral messaging. Reporter A. Tension investigates a mysterious murder at Cerebell Pacific, the city’s power company. The narrative delves into the sacrifices individuals make for the sake of productivity and the coercion of power systems.
Game master Brennan Lee Mulligan explains that Mentopolis explores the personal and societal issues of its characters. It raises questions about individual agency, the role of impulse, and the power of organized resistance. The season showcases how individual actions can have a domino effect on the community, highlighting the importance of collective action in combating systemic problems.
Mentopolis challenges the notion that impulse is inherently negative, emphasizing the importance of moral impulses in driving change. The show encourages viewers to reflect on their own internal voices and who benefits from suppressing certain aspects of themselves. It urges individuals to act on their moral instincts, even if it feels irrational within the confines of a system designed to keep them compliant.
While the season is still unfolding, Mulligan promises more meaningful choices and beautiful moments from the players. The collaborative storytelling aspect of tabletop games shines through in the contributions of the players, making Mentopolis a compelling and thought-provoking experience.
| Episode | Air Date | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| Episode 1 | Aug. 9 | The season premiere introduces Mentopolis, a city within Dr. Elias Hodge’s mind, and sets the stage for the moral dilemmas to come. |
| Episode 2 | Aug. 16 | The plot thickens as Imelda Pulse hires a private investigator to follow Conrad Schintz, while a larger conspiracy unfolds in the city. |
| Episode 3 | TBD | Stay tuned for more thrilling twists and turns as the characters navigate the complex web of power and morality in Mentopolis. |
Source: polygon
