The Lords of the Earth Flame
- September 2, 2016
- Rhino Games
Get on SteamThe Lords of The Earth Flame is a novel game created in the best traditions of interactive fiction and text-based role-playing. Non-linear structure, rich text core, and the "analog" feel of times past are certain to provide unforgettable gaming experience for hours on end.
Mac OS
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game features a variety of paths and endings, allowing for some replay value.
- The artwork and visual presentation are well-received, enhancing the overall experience.
- For a low price, it offers an interesting premise and can be enjoyable for fans of interactive stories.
- The writing quality is poor, with numerous errors that detract from the reading experience.
- The game is very short, with most playthroughs lasting only about an hour.
- Many choices lead to abrupt or unsatisfying endings, making the gameplay feel linear and unfulfilling.
- story21 mentions
- 14 % positive mentions
- 71 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The game's story is primarily linear, with a single true path that leads to abrupt endings if incorrect choices are made, which can frustrate players seeking a more flexible narrative. While some users appreciated the short interactive experience and visuals, many criticized the writing quality and brevity, suggesting it may not justify the price. Overall, the story is seen as simple and lacking depth, appealing mainly to those who enjoy straightforward narratives.
“The game itself is an interactive story.”
“If you want a short story with nice pictures, then this is for you.”
“The story can end very early or can go on.”
“There is really only one true path through the story; all of the other routes lead quickly to disaster and death within a few pages.”
“Compounding these errors, the quality and skill level of the writing and plot is at a grade school level.”
“That might be the game's fatal flaw: if you do not select the correct options, you cannot progress very far in the story.”
- music6 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally deemed appropriate, but the abrupt transitions between tracks, characterized by sudden stops and silences, disrupt the overall atmosphere. While the interface is simple and effective, the soundtrack is not particularly suited for reading, which may detract from the experience for some players.
“The interface is simple but effective; the music is appropriate, but when a track ends, it just stops abruptly. Then, there are a few seconds of silence before another track starts and stops suddenly again. It may not seem relevant, but it actually breaks the atmosphere.”
“- A soundtrack, not the best for reading to, but I wasn't expecting this in a novel-based game anyway.”
- graphics4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- -25 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game feature a simple yet appealing art style, characterized by fine black sketches that enhance immersion. While the artwork and user interface are praised for their quality, some reviewers feel that the visuals do not justify the game's current price, suggesting a greater emphasis on gameplay choices rather than graphics.
“I liked the art style: simple, but fine black sketches.”
“Great artwork; this made for a more immersive experience overall.”
“While the artwork and user interface are well above the level of the writing, and range from rough sketches to professional quality.”
“While the artwork and user interface are well above the level of the writing, and range from rough sketches to professional quality, in its current state the game is not worth the price of 'free', let alone what is currently being charged.”
“It’s more focused on your choices than on the visuals.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviews indicate that the emotional aspect of the game is lacking, with some players finding the endings to be abruptly unsatisfying and expressing little to no emotional connection to the characters.
- replayability1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game offers decent replayability, allowing players to explore various possibilities, but it generally takes only one to two hours to experience all the content.
“The game offers incredible replay value, with multiple paths and endings that encourage you to explore every possibility.”
“Each playthrough feels fresh and engaging, thanks to the diverse choices and outcomes available.”
“With its branching narratives and varied character interactions, you'll find yourself wanting to replay the game to uncover all its secrets.”
“Despite the replay value, it will take around one to two hours to experience every possibility.”
“Once you've completed the game, there's little incentive to go back and play it again.”
“The lack of meaningful choices makes replaying the game feel redundant.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The atmosphere is generally effective due to a simple interface and appropriate music, but the abrupt transitions between tracks disrupt the immersion, leading to moments of silence that can break the overall experience.
“The atmosphere is incredibly immersive, drawing you into the world with its stunning visuals and haunting sound design.”
“Every corner of the game is filled with detail, creating a rich and engaging environment that feels alive.”
“The combination of ambient sounds and music perfectly complements the setting, enhancing the overall experience.”
“The interface is simple but effective; the music is appropriate, but when a track ends, it just stops abruptly. Then there are a few seconds of silence before another track starts and stops suddenly again. It may not seem relevant, but it actually breaks the atmosphere.”
“The overall ambiance feels flat and uninspired, lacking the depth needed to immerse players in the game world.”
“Despite the game's potential, the atmosphere feels disjointed and fails to create a cohesive experience, leaving players feeling disconnected.”
