Act I: The Foundation
Welcome to The Oldest House, a shifting, otherworldly headquarters of the Federal Bureau of Control. In Act I, you'll navigate the initial chaos as Jesse Faden, newly appointed Director, grappling with the Hiss and uncovering the building's secrets. This act introduces core mechanics and sets the stage for the escalating conflict.
Your journey begins in the Executive Sector, a relatively stable area that quickly devolves as the Hiss invasion takes hold. You'll learn the basics of combat, utilizing Jesse's nascent supernatural abilities alongside the Service Weapon. Key objectives include reaching the Control Point in the Executive Sector, understanding the nature of the Hiss, and securing your first major upgrade for the Service Weapon. Expect to encounter initial resistance from Hiss-corrupted Bureau agents and environmental hazards. The Foundation act is crucial for understanding the narrative and mastering the fundamental gameplay loop. Pay close attention to environmental cues and audio logs, as they provide vital context for the unfolding events.
The initial areas are desed to be somewhat linear, guiding you through the core mechanics. However, even here, you'll find opportunities to explore side rooms and gather resources. The first major hurdle will likely be the encounter with the first Hiss-controlled boss, which serves as a sificant test of your early combat prowess. Mastering the dodge and utilizing cover effectively will be paramount. Don't neglect to pick up any documents or research notes you find; they offer invaluable lore and hints about the Bureau's history and the nature of the paranormal.