This is an action-adventure Role-Playing Game (RPG) that blends elements of hack and slash combat with exploration, drawing inspiration from the aesthetic and feel of classic 16-bit era titles while incorporating modernized mechanics. Released in 2016, the core experience is a single-player journey set in a savage, ruined world steeped in forgotten technology and echoes of a violent past. Players assume the role of the Drifter, an enigmatic figure burdened by a mysterious, debilitating illness, who must journey through the desolate landscape to seek a cure.

Setting and Atmosphere

The game presents a visually striking world characterized by vibrant pixel art and atmospheric design. The setting is one of decay and mystery, where ancient, powerful technology lies dormant amidst overgrown ruins. The narrative is conveyed primarily through environmental storytelling and visual cues rather than extensive dialogue, creating an immersive and often melancholic atmosphere as the Drifter navigates this dangerous, silent land.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay loop centers on exploration, combat, and uncovering secrets. Combat is fast-paced and demanding, requiring precise timing for both melee attacks and ranged weaponry. Key mechanics include:

Dash Mechanic: A crucial element for both traversal and combat evasion, allowing players to quickly reposition and avoid incoming damage.
Weaponry and Upgrades: Players utilize a variety of tools and weapons, often discovering modules that unlock new abilities or enhance existing capabilities, tying into the RPG progression structure.
Exploration: The world is interconnected, encouraging players to delve into hidden pathways and challenging optional areas to find necessary upgrades and lore fragments.

What makes this game unique in the Action RPG space?

Its distinctiveness lies in the fusion of challenging, precise action gameplay—often compared to top-down action titles—with a deep sense of environmental mystery and a commitment to visual storytelling. The Drifter’s reliance on forgotten technology provides a unique flavor to the progression system, contrasting the high-tech elements with the primitive, overgrown environments.

How is progression handled?

Progression is tied to discovering modules and fragments scattered throughout the world. These items are used to unlock new skills, enhance the Drifter's core abilities, and improve combat effectiveness, allowing players to tailor their approach to the game's difficult encounters.

Platform Availability and Content

This title is available across multiple platforms, including PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Wii U, and PlayStation Vita. As a main game release, there are currently no officially released downloadable content (DLC) packs or major expansions associated with this title.