Alruna and the Necro-Industrialists
- September 26, 2024
- Neckbolt
All manner of thing shall be wellWelcome to a compact, tightly packed Metroidvania, where the Square Aspect Ratio and Single Screen Level Design allows every one of the 200+ rooms to slot into the larger puzzle-box of the world; where secrets, exploits and sequence-breaking are built into the very foundation of the game; and where the overarching story doesn’t care too much which path you happen t…
Reviews
- Gorgeous pixel art and fantastic soundtrack that enhances the atmosphere.
- Engaging exploration with numerous secrets and a non-linear progression that encourages experimentation.
- Satisfying challenge with clever puzzles and a compact design that doesn't overstay its welcome.
- Game locks your save file after completing either ending, preventing further exploration.
- Controls can be finicky and lead to frustrating moments, especially during platforming sections.
- Numerous bugs and glitches, including getting stuck in the floor and issues with enemy interactions.
- music22 mentions
- 64 % positive mentions
- 32 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its authentic retro 8-bit style, enhancing the overall aesthetic and atmosphere. Reviewers highlight the soundtrack as a standout feature, with many considering it worth the price of admission alone, despite some noting it can be a bit repetitive. Overall, the combination of fantastic music and stunning pixel art creates a captivating experience that complements the game's narrative.
“Aesthetically, the game does a great job in capturing the feel of an authentic retro game, particularly in the soundtrack.”
“The pixel art is stunning, and the soundtrack is top-notch, really setting the mood as you make your way through this mysterious, decaying world.”
“Worth a buy for the music alone!”
“The music is decent 8-bit, albeit a little repetitive.”
- gameplay12 mentions
- 83 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The gameplay in Alruna is highly praised for its smooth controls, engaging mechanics, and rewarding exploration, making it a strong recommendation for metroidvania fans. While some find the gameplay a bit simple, the well-designed world and power-up mechanics provide ample opportunities for experimentation and enjoyment. Overall, the atmosphere and level design enhance the experience, solidifying its appeal within the genre.
“Absolutely recommending this to everyone who likes metroidvanias. Very professionally done, very smooth controls, great mapping, great atmosphere, great mechanics.”
“The world/level design is interesting and fun to traverse, and the power-up mechanics allow for some neat experimentation.”
“The game isn't perfect, but the atmosphere, exploration, and rewarding gameplay make it a solid choice for fans of the genre.”
- graphics10 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics are widely praised for their charming 8-bit aesthetic, effectively blending modern designs with retro vibes. Reviewers highlight the magical and mesmerizing visuals, which complement the game's atmospheric soundtrack, enhancing the overall nostalgic experience.
“Magical mesmerizing graphics and gorgeous atmospheric OST!”
“The graphics are charming and have a good mix of modern designs and retro vibes.”
“The 8-bit aesthetic is very nice looking and the soundtrack is pretty good too.”
- story10 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The story is generally well-received, with players appreciating its interesting quest and retro-style presentation, enhanced by stunning pixel art and a fitting soundtrack. However, some users express frustration with the gameplay, indicating a strong disinterest in replaying despite acknowledging the storyline's appeal. Overall, the narrative is engaging but may not be enough to overcome gameplay challenges for some players.
“The story was interesting and I followed it for the most part.”
“Good ol’ retro style platformer with stunning pixel art and a rad soundtrack that’s just perfect for the vibe and the story (don’t miss the story!).”
“The music and art are fantastic, and the storyline seems interesting.”
- atmosphere8 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its magical and mesmerizing graphics, complemented by a gorgeous soundtrack that enhances the overall experience. Reviewers highlight the clever design, secrets, and smooth controls, making it a standout choice for metroidvania fans despite some imperfections. Overall, the atmosphere significantly contributes to the game's exploration and rewarding gameplay.
“Extremely cool game with some clever areas, secrets, and dripping with atmosphere.”
“Magical, mesmerizing graphics and gorgeous atmospheric soundtrack!”
“Absolutely recommending this to everyone who likes metroidvanias; very professionally done, very smooth controls, great mapping, great atmosphere, great mechanics, and more.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game features engaging dialogue that effectively explores its themes; however, its brevity limits the overall emotional impact, leaving players wanting a deeper connection.