I have just published Vostra Checkpoint V0.1, the first public development version of my border inspection game for the ZX Spectrum 48K.
Vostra Checkpoint is a small document-checking game set in 1982, after the Republic of Vostra opens its border again following years of sanctions. You have been assigned to a border checkpoint, where people from Dolnia, Belkor and Aristan arrive with passports, permits and stories.
Your job is simple: inspect the documents, look for discrepancies, and decide who may enter Vostra.
Inspect documents at the border
Every visitor brings a set of documents to your desk. You need to check names, countries, cities, passport numbers, permits and other details. Some people have everything in order. Others may be missing documents, carrying invalid papers, or trying to get through with mistakes you are expected to catch.
Fictional countries and cities
The current version includes four fictional countries:
- VOSTRA – Rudyna, Kralovec, Varin
- DOLNIA – Dolin, Mostec, Vysna
- BELKOR – Belka, Korunen, Rudenica
- ARISTAN – Aristan, Seranan, Kandavik
These countries form the foundation for the document checking system. Later versions will expand the rules, document requirements and daily progression.
Development version
Vostra Checkpoint V0.1 is still an early development release.
The basic inspection loop is now playable: people arrive, documents can be opened, checked and compared, and the player can approve or deny entry. The current version is mainly focused on the core feel of the checkpoint, readability, pacing and the basic document interaction.
Future versions may include more detailed rules, stronger daily progression, missing document dialogue, forged documents, bribe events, wanted persons and a proper manual with lore and instructions.
This is still a compact 48K game, so some systems are intentionally simple, but the foundation of the border inspection loop is now in place.
Feedback is very welcome - especially about readability, controls, pacing and whether the game feels engaging after several in-game days.
Play Vostra Checkpoint here:
https://haabb001.itch.io/vostra-checkpoint