Hugo Pratt’s Corto Maltese sets sail in Secrets of Venice

Written by Jack Allin — December 10, 2014 at 15:11

The line between graphic novels and adventure games continues to blur, and the latest comic protagonist to jump ship is Corto Maltese, who is now starring in his own adventure called Secrets of Venice.

Originally created by Italian author and artist Hugo Pratt in 1967, Corto Maltese is a sailor who "combines Mediterranean looks with Anglo-Saxon culture." Living in the early 20th century, he is an "anti-hero who prefers his freedom and imagination to wealth" and like a modern-day Ulysses, he travels to many exotic locations around the world.

In his first interactive adventure, Maltese sets out for Venice in pursuit of a powerful artifact know as the Clavicule of Solomon. But seeking it could prove deadly, as the captain is poisoned and must first procure the ingredients needed to survive. Along the way he encounters "many enigmas and mysterious characters", but in his weakened state he struggles to distinguish dreams from reality. In order to succeed in his quest, he must "avoid bullets and explosions, face the unknown, and eventually open the doors of knowledge."

The first screenshots and trailer show off the graphic design that pays tribute to the artwork of Pratt himself, as well as the "riddle-driven gameplay" that promises five hours of play time. If both elements feel vaguely reminiscent of Red Johnson's Chronicles, it's because Secrets of Venice was also developed by Lexis Numérique, the innovative French studio that was sadly forced to closed its doors earlier this year.  

The best news of all is that there's no need to wait for Corto Maltese: Secrets of Venice, as it has already released for PC and Mac on Steam. The game will also be coming to iOS and Android platforms soon.