The collaboration is Cognition: An Erica Reed Thriller, which will be developed by Phoenix Online Studios and Dutch indie developer Khaeon Gamestudio, with the storyline by Jane Jensen and the art direction by graphic novelist Roman Molenaar.
The game’s plot revolves around FBI agent Erica Reed, who lost her brother to a serial killer who was never apprehended. However, Reed developed the strange psychic power of post-cognition during the failed investigation, in which she could see an object’s past just by touching it. While useful to her as an investigator, the ability has had a profound negative effect on her personal life. When new serial killers strike, and start leaving clues only Erica could use, the plot thickens, as it seems someone knows Erica’s powers, and might be somehow related to her brother’s murder.
Cognition: An Erica Reed Thriller will release as a series of four episodes, as the design team will be working closely with story consultant Jane Jensen, who will be helping with Cognition’s plot and investigative gameplay.
However, the developers are looking to fans to help raise $25,000 to generate income for the game’s initial development. Gamers who contribute to the fund will get rewards such as free downloadable copies of the finished game, signed hard copies, and rare opportunities to appear in the game, name characters, and participate ”behind the scenes” in its development.
Players who wish to help fund the game can visit the Kickstarter page here. The developers hope to have the episodes complete by next year.