Asobo Studio introduces new combat dynamics in its prequel to A Plague Tale, blending toe-to-toe combat and hands-off puzzles to enhance its action-adventure experience. However, the second half of the game, characterised by intense emotional distress, diminishes the overall impact of what is otherwise a well-paced narrative.
Unique Gameplay Mechanics
In this new instalment, players are introduced to unique gameplay mechanics such as the versatile R3 button, which serves multiple purposes like squeezing through gaps, and engaging in combat. Such features embody the spirit of a scrappy challenger in the gaming landscape, distinguishing itself from bigger-budget productions.
Evolving Series Dynamics
This edition marks the third game in the A Plague Tale series, with each iteration exploring new avenues. The first game offered a compelling narrative with basic stealth gameplay, while the second added more depth to action and environments, albeit at the expense of pacing. By focusing on new character Sophia, the latest instalment continues exploring diverse gameplay paths, this time incorporating sword combat reminiscent of Sucker Punch’s Ghost duology and Hellblade, yet with its own twist.
Introducing New Characters and Combat
The narrative introduces players to Sophia, a character with a complex backstory involving harsh childhood experiments. As echoes of her past resonate, players navigate alongside other characters, like Leni, exploring the shared history with the De Runes. Asobo introduces the new resonance points system, which players can invest in various specialisms, offering flexibility and personalised gameplay improvements.
Exploration and Puzzles
Exploration draws influence from titles such as Tomb Raider, daring to leave players without a map while offering a subtle hint system. Minoan-inspired puzzles primarily utilise light-reflecting mechanics, providing a nostalgic yet rewarding exploration experience, as players interact with long-dormant mechanisms to progress through the game.
Narrative Tone and Atmosphere
Resonance’s narrative peaks during its puzzle-centric first half, characterised by moments of light-hearted dialogue between Sophia and Leni amidst darker, combat-filled scenes. However, the game soon transitions to a more sombre tone, exploring deeper myths and darker secrets within its labyrinthine environments.
An Intense Final Act
Asobo maintains a familiar stylistic choice, presenting harrowing scenes laden with imagery echoing Hieronymus Bosch. This culminates in a final act laden with trauma that some may find overwhelming. The game repeatedly tests its protagonist, with gameplay occasionally inducing a sense of shared exhaustion in players.
Overall, while the game offers numerous innovative elements in its gameplay and story, its unrelenting intensity in later sections detracts from what could have been a more balanced and illuminating narrative experience.
Reporting based on coverage first published by eurogamer.net.