I'm only in chapter 1 but it's thrilling. Writing of characters could be better at certain moments but everything else is great. It makes you feel like your actions have consequences (dunno if that's actually true) and combat is fun
Do you want to explore a carefully crafted and detailed world that rewards exploration?
Do you want to flee strong enemies, but then come back stronger and beat them into the ground?
Look no further.
20 hours in and I'm still enjoying exploring this world and being surprised by what it hides.
There's a real sense of progression that feels meaningful.
Combat is also very fun.
Enemies wil give you a wide berth when you get comfortable with your preferred weapon type.
Also there are "boss" enemies.
They'll immediately wipe your face into the dirt.
I'm eagerly looking forward to doing the same to them.
Understand that if you're not doing meaninful damage to an enemy, then it means they're too strong for you and you need to avoid them. Run past them, grab that spear, then run away. Then come back stronger.
There are few games that give me the same feeling that this one does. Like other reviewers have stated, if you're still on the fence, then just hop on in.
This game won't disappoint.
I'm an old-school gamer, so the aesthetic scratched all the right itches for me. Excellent gameplay loop, open world that rewards exploration, no shortage of things to do, and wonderful character interactions. A must-buy for anyone looking for an excellent action-RPG experience. This is what Ultima 8 should have been if it had been alotted enough time in the oven.
If you're longing for an RPG that has grit, beautiful story, art, and music, look no further. Drova is tough, majestic, and fulfilling. This game will truly suck you in. It has the 8-bit art style with punishing souls-like combat. My only complaint is I wish it didn't end on a cliffhanger. It leaves the opening for a 2nd game!
Pros:
- Different char builds that meaningfully affect how you play.
- Graphics are pixel art, but it's GORGEOUS pixel art.
- I can pet a dog, a cat and even a sheep
Cons:
- No matter the build, you're really weak at first.
- Stone monster pops out of nowhere and kills me in one shot.
- Even the fucking dog steals from me.
Veredict: Good game. It keeps kicking my ass, yet I come crawling back for more and slowly making progress. If that sounds like fun, this might be the game for you too.