Hack #6: Zed · Zed
30 Apr, 14:33
Atlas Cipher is a voice-first detective game where players receive missions from a handler, review case briefings, travel across a 3D globe, interrogate witnesses, collect clues, compare suspect dossiers, and ultimately decide who to arrest. Each case is structured as a focused but complete investigation loop: players manage limited time and travel resources, revisit their notebook, track evidence across cities, and piece together route clues, suspect clues, and corroborating details before issuing a final warrant. We built Atlas Cipher in Zed and used ElevenLabs as a core part of the experience, not just as an audio layer. ElevenLabs powers the live conversational interactions with the handler and witnesses, character voice design, narration, ambient sound, mission music, and supporting sound effects that shape the emotional pacing of the investigation. Our goal was to create a smaller, polished game experience where audio drives immersion, tension, and personality, making every conversation, city visit, and final accusation feel more immediate and memorable.
