Imagine if Shadow of the Colossus threw a party, and Breath of the Wild and Horizon Zero Dawn showed up – that’s the vibe of Eternal Strands, Yellow Brick Game’s impressive debut. This isn’t just another action-adventure; it’s a journey into the Never On, a land scarred by a mysterious magical cataclysm.
You step into the boots of Bryn, a young magic weaver and scout, thrust into a mission to uncover the secrets of this isolated realm. Your adventure begins when your party stumbles into the Enclave, a once-lost area, making you the first to breach its boundaries in years. The story unfolds as an underdog tale, full of twists and turns, where you must fight to survive and unravel the mysteries that shroud the Never On.
The narrative is a delightful blend of familiar tropes and fresh ideas. While the main storyline holds its own with enjoyable characters and intriguing lore, the side missions offer deeper dives into the world’s history. There’s a touch of lost hope and a dash of chosen one sprinkled throughout, creating a compelling experience. I’ll admit, the NPC dialogue does get a bit lengthy towards the end, but it’s a minor hiccup in an otherwise captivating story. It felt like a memorable D&D campaign session, leaving me eager to explore every nook and cranny of this world.
One of the game’s standout features is its stunning environment. The Enclave is a diverse landscape, with each area feeling unique yet connected. The developers nailed the atmosphere, enhanced by a dynamic weather system that introduces new challenges with every outing. And let’s not forget the destructible environment! Almost everything can be smashed, adding a layer of chaotic fun to combat. Taking cover behind a building only to watch it crumble around you is a thrill. Later, a special power enhances your ability to interact with the environment, making exploration even more exhilarating.
Combat in Eternal Strands is a dynamic affair. You’re not just hacking and slashing; you’re utilizing weapons, strand powers, and the environment itself. Bryn wields a sword and shield, a two-handed weapon, and a bow, all of which can be crafted and upgraded for diverse playstyles. The strand powers – fire, ice, and telekinesis – are where the magic truly shines. Fire sets everything ablaze, ice freezes enemies and creates bridges, and telekinesis lets you throw anything, including your foes, around like ragdolls. It’s pure, unadulterated fun.
The enemies are a diverse bunch, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. From annoying lava mosquitos and invisible acid-spitting chameleons to chilling frost hounds, they’re all designed to test your skills. The boss fights, particularly against the large orcs or corrupted robots, are epic encounters that require strategy and experimentation. You’ll need to figure out their patterns and trigger specific conditions to unlock their strand powers, which are used to upgrade your own. While these fights become somewhat predictable after a few encounters, the 20-hour playtime ensures they don’t overstay their welcome.
Let’s not forget the attention to detail that permeates every aspect of the game. From the intricate designs of the enemy creatures to the subtle animations of Bryn’s movements, the developers have poured their hearts and souls into creating a polished and immersive experience. The visual fidelity of the game is impressive, showcasing the beauty and diversity of the Enclave’s landscapes. The lighting and particle effects add a sense of realism to the magical elements, making the strand powers feel truly powerful and tangible.
The game’s pacing is well-balanced, alternating between intense combat encounters, exploration-driven quests, and story-driven cutscenes. This variety keeps the gameplay fresh and engaging, preventing it from becoming repetitive. The sense of progression is satisfying, as you unlock new abilities, upgrade your gear, and uncover new areas of the Enclave.
Eternal Strands is a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of indie game developers. It’s a game that dares to be different, that embraces its own unique identity, and that delivers an unforgettable experience. It’s a reminder that even in a crowded market, there’s always room for innovation and originality.
So, if you’re looking for a game that will transport you to a world of magic and adventure, a game that will challenge your skills and tug at your heartstrings, then Eternal Strands is the perfect choice. It’s a game that will stay with you long after the credits roll, a game that will inspire you to explore the depths of your own imagination. And who knows, maybe you’ll find a little bit of magic along the way.
You can dive into Eternal Strands now on Steam, Xbox Series S/X, Game Pass, & Play Station 5
Until next time, Stay Caffeinated!
