Simon Stålenhag’s The Electric State, a poignant exploration of a technologically advanced yet decaying world, has captivated audiences through its graphic novel, upcoming film adaptation, and tabletop role-playing game. Stålenhag’s signature artistic style, characterized by evocative landscapes blending rusting Americana with futuristic technology, forms the backdrop for a story centered on a cross-country journey in a fractured America. Originally published in 2018, the graphic novel follows Michelle, a young girl accompanied by a robot named Skip, as they traverse a post-civil war landscape in search of her missing brother. The narrative weaves together their arduous journey with stunning visuals depicting the strange beauty found amidst the ruins. The immersive experience extends beyond the page, offering fans the opportunity to delve into this melancholic world through the Electric State RPG, published by Free League Publishing, Stålenhag’s frequent collaborators. The game, available now, allows players to craft their own stories within this unique setting, further enriching the experience before the film’s release.
Central to the narrative across all formats – graphic novel, film, and game – is the classic road trip trope. The Electric State utilizes the road trip not only as a plot device but also as a symbolic representation of hope and the search for connection in a crumbling society. In the late 90s setting, the United States has been ravaged by civil war and further destabilized by the pervasive use of "neurocasters," VR headsets offering an escape from the harsh realities of the world. The allure of these virtual sanctuaries proves too strong for many, leading to a societal detachment from the physical world as individuals choose the simulated comfort of the neurocaster over confronting the challenges of their environment. This technological dependence exacerbates the societal breakdown, creating a poignant contrast between the potential of advanced technology and its detrimental impact on human connection and engagement with the real world.
The upcoming film adaptation, directed by the Russo Brothers, known for their work on the Marvel Cinematic Universe, brings star power to The Electric State. Millie Bobby Brown takes on the role of Michelle, while Chris Pratt portrays a human companion on the road trip. Initial trailers hinted at the film’s visual spectacle, showcasing the signature landscapes of Stålenhag’s world. More recent trailers have shed light on the storyline, suggesting a potential divergence from the source material with the introduction of a machine rebellion, adding a layer of action and suspense to the narrative. While the road trip element remains integral to the film’s plot, the destination appears to be a physical location known as "The Electric State," where Michelle hopes to reunite with her brother. This adaptation promises to be a visually stunning and emotionally resonant exploration of a world on the brink.
The Electric State RPG, published by Free League Publishing, provides fans with an interactive way to experience the setting before the film’s release. Players begin their journey in Pacifica, the remnant of California in this fractured future, and define their characters’ motivations for embarking on a road trip. The game offers a diverse range of archetypes, from runaways seeking escape to doctors trying to make a difference, and even allows players to embody a robot drone controlled remotely via a neurocaster. This unique perspective allows players to explore the complexities of the world and the blurred lines between human and machine. The setting itself becomes a character in the game, shaping the narrative and influencing player choices as they navigate the decaying landscapes and grapple with the social challenges of the world.
The Electric State RPG utilizes Free League’s established "Year Zero Engine," a core mechanic system powering several of their games, including Mutant Year Zero and Alien. This system involves rolling a pool of six-sided dice, with successes achieved by rolling sixes. Players have the option to "push" their rolls, attempting to gain additional successes at the risk of depleting their "Hope," a key mechanic representing the characters’ resilience and their ability to resist the allure of the neurocasters. In addition to Hope, the game introduces "Tension," a mechanic reflecting the interpersonal dynamics within the group. Tension tracks the evolving relationships between characters, influencing their interactions and creating opportunities for both cooperation and conflict. These mechanics add a layer of emotional depth to the gameplay, reflecting the challenges of maintaining hope and connection in a world rife with despair and isolation.
The convergence of the graphic novel, film adaptation, and role-playing game creates a rich and multifaceted experience for fans of The Electric State. Stålenhag’s evocative artwork and compelling narrative serve as the foundation for a multi-platform exploration of a world on the brink of collapse. The film, with its star-studded cast and experienced directors, promises to bring the visual spectacle and emotional depth of the story to a wider audience. The tabletop RPG offers an interactive and deeply personal way to engage with the setting, allowing players to craft their own narratives and become active participants in this dystopian yet strangely beautiful world. The combined power of these mediums creates a truly immersive and unforgettable experience, inviting audiences to explore the intricacies of The Electric State and contemplate the implications of a technologically advanced society grappling with its own decline.
