Endlanders: First Encounter

79%
Game Brain Score Based on 102 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • story
Endlanders: First Encounter Game Cover
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Build your deck, glitch through enemies, translate unknown languages and decipher the mysteries of this universe, in this grid-based real-time combat indie game. Endlanders features two main characters with diverging storylines in the same universe, fighting and exploring their way through vastly different planes with anachronistic themes.

  • PC
  • Windows
  • Linux
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

79%
Audience ScoreBased on 102 reviews
gameplay6 positive mentions
story3 negative mentions
  • The game features a visually stunning art style and charming pixel graphics that enhance the overall experience.
  • The combat system is unique and engaging, reminiscent of classic games like Megaman Battle Network, providing a fun challenge.
  • There is a lot of potential in the game's concept and mechanics, with many players expressing excitement for future updates and the full release.
  • The controls are confusing and lack the ability to be remapped, making gameplay frustrating for many players.
  • The game is plagued by bugs and performance issues, including instances of being softlocked and difficulty initiating combat.
  • The tutorial and guidance are insufficient, leaving players feeling lost and unsure of how to progress or utilize game mechanics effectively.
  • gameplay19 mentions

    The gameplay is characterized by a mix of solid mechanics and engaging elements, though it suffers from issues like clunky controls and a linear structure. While some players find the combat and navigation challenging, others appreciate the unique mechanics and potential for improvement. Overall, the gameplay offers a promising experience, albeit with room for refinement and better user guidance.

    • “The gameplay mechanics, while not groundbreaking, were solid and functional.”
    • “The gameplay took me a little getting used to, but was really interesting once I wrapped my head around it.”
    • “The setting is pretty chill and relaxing, music and graphics go along, and the gameplay is fun; the whole moving in a 3x3 grid while building a combo and upgrading your deck is something I've been missing since Battle Network.”
    • “And I think there is space for improvement on the combat mechanics, like debuffs on casting time, cleaner movements (maybe more frames or stopping the animation at critical moments)...”
    • “The keyboard controls are a bit clunky, but the overall gameplay is solid.”
    • “Gameplay is annoying; I'm fighting creatures that, after about 3 fights, I'm dead. Even though they can damage you any time you're close enough, you cannot damage them until you find a clear space for battle.”
  • graphics17 mentions

    The graphics of the game have received a mixed but generally positive reception, with many praising the unique art style that blends pixel art with glitch effects, reminiscent of titles like Mega Man Battle Network and Hyper Light Drifter. While some users noted the graphics as basic, others highlighted stunning visuals and commendable attention to detail, contributing to an overall appealing aesthetic that enhances the gameplay experience.

    • “The art style and attention to detail in certain areas were commendable, adding a touch of visual appeal.”
    • “Really enjoyed this game, the visuals are stunning at times.”
    • “Promising game with an incredible aesthetic.”
    • “The graphics are basic and the sound is meh, but the exploration aspect is interesting.”
    • “While the kernel of something cool is here, a sort of glitched out Mega Man Battle Network style game mixed with a Hyper Light Drifter aesthetic, and a dash of Death Trash...”
  • story8 mentions

    The game's storyline offers engaging moments and a solid premise, though some players feel it lacks a compelling introduction that diminishes their investment in the narrative. The unique diverging storylines for each character, combined with customizable playstyles, enhance the overall experience for those who enjoy exploration and storytelling. Overall, while the story has potential, its execution may leave some players wanting more.

    • “Progress and story are tied in a good way; Endlanders' premise is pretty good and I hope it just gets better with time.”
    • “Each character has a unique diverging storyline and their own playstyle, which can further be customized by the player and the choice of cards in a deck.”
    • “The game does have that interesting retro feel, but a lack of an intro made me not really care very much about the storyline.”
    • “In terms of the storyline, it had its moments of engagement.”
    • “But I still feel like this is a great game nonetheless and would suggest it to people who like to explore and learn the story.”
  • music6 mentions

    The music in the game is widely praised for its atmospheric quality and ability to enhance the overall experience, with many reviewers noting its similarity to the soundtrack of "Oneshot." Coupled with visually striking pixel art and sound effects, the music complements the engaging gameplay and unique combat mechanics, creating a satisfying and immersive environment. Overall, it contributes significantly to the game's charm and appeal.

    • “I like the art style, the music and sound effects are great, and while the combat is unforgiving, it is fun!”
    • “Moving on, the music for this game is so good, very atmospheric and reminds me a lot of OneShot.”
    • “Visually stunning, amazing music to match the impression that this vast, peculiar world gives you.”
  • atmosphere3 mentions

    The game's atmosphere is praised for its visually appealing world and immersive music, which evokes a strong emotional response reminiscent of other titles like OneShot. However, players find navigation challenging due to unclear boundaries in the environment.

    • “The game looks great, promising with a nice atmosphere.”
    • “The music for this game is so good, very atmospheric and reminds me a lot of OneShot.”
    • “Although the world looks cool and I like the atmosphere, it's difficult to tell where you can and can't go, and what you can and can't walk through.”
  • stability2 mentions

    The game is criticized for its instability, with users reporting numerous bugs and a convoluted design. There is hope that future patches will address these issues.

    • “Buggy mess, convoluted design.”
    • “Hope the glitches and bugs can be solved within one or two patches.”
  • optimization1 mentions

    The game's optimization is criticized for its poor performance, indicating that players are experiencing significant issues that affect gameplay.

    • “The performance of the game is also very poor.”
  • humor1 mentions

    The humor in the game is generally perceived as lacking, with some users expressing that they do not find it funny at all.

Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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