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About Modern Tales: Age of Invention
Modern Tales: Age of Invention places players in 1900 Paris during the world expo, where an unknown force abducts the era’s brightest minds. You assume the role of Emily Patterson, daughter of a captured scientist, and travel from the French capital to Siberia to uncover the conspirator’s motives. Along the way you encounter iconic figures such as Coco Chanel, Albert Einstein, and Ferdinand Porsche, solving puzzles that drive the narrative toward a showdown with a scheming madman.
01 / THE GUIDE
Story and Setting
The plot begins at the Paris expo, where scientists are mysteriously kidnapped. Emily Patterson follows a philanthropist she suspects, launching an investigation that expands beyond Europe. The narrative weaves historical backdrops with a fictional conspiracy, creating a blend of real‑world intrigue and adventure. The story’s scope moves from the bustling streets of Paris to the harsh cold of Siberia, providing varied atmospheres that reflect the early‑20th‑century setting.
- Observe how each location’s description ties to the era’s technological optimism.
- Compare Emily’s motivations with those of the historical figures she meets.
02 / THE GUIDE
Locations
Players explore 30 distinct locations ranging from Switzerland’s alpine towns to the frozen expanses of Siberia. Each site is presented as a stage for investigation, offering visual cues that hint at the period’s architecture and transport. The diversity of locales supports the story’s globe‑spanning chase, reinforcing the sense of a worldwide threat. Travel between sites is narrative‑driven rather than based on a map mechanic.
- Note the environmental details that differentiate each region’s historical context.
- Use the sequence of locations to track the plot’s progression.

03 / THE GUIDE
Puzzles and Mini‑games
The game features 14 puzzles and HO scenes that test logical reasoning and observation. These challenges are integrated into the story, requiring players to piece together clues about the kidnappers. Success in a puzzle often unlocks the next narrative beat, linking gameplay directly to plot advancement. The design emphasizes variety, ensuring each puzzle feels distinct within the early‑1900s theme.
- Approach each puzzle by first cataloguing all visible clues.
- Compare the mechanics of earlier puzzles to anticipate later challenges.
04 / THE GUIDE
Historical Figures
Emily encounters renowned personalities such as Coco Chanel, Albert Einstein, and Ferdinand Porsche. These figures assist her at critical moments, providing assistance that reflects their real‑world expertise. Their inclusion adds authenticity and offers educational glimpses into the era’s cultural and scientific landscape. Interaction with them is narrative‑focused, highlighting how their inventions and ideas influence the storyline.
- Reflect on how each figure’s historical contributions align with the assistance they provide.
- Consider the contrast between their real‑world legacies and their fictional roles.
05 / THE GUIDE
Steam Platform Features
Age of Invention supports single‑player play and integrates Steam services such as Achievements, Trading Cards, Cloud saves, and Family Sharing. These features enhance replay value and allow progress to be stored across sessions. Steam Cloud supports storing progress across sessions, while Achievements provide optional goals for completionists. Family Sharing permits multiple accounts to access the same purchase.
- Enable Steam Cloud to keep your progress safe across devices.
- Check the Achievements list for optional challenges beyond the main story.





COMMUNITY
Player discussion