Graven emerges as a tribute to the retro shooters of the ’90s, aiming to blend the nostalgic aesthetic of classics like Hexen and Heretic with modern gameplay mechanics. This dark medieval fantasy shooter intrigues with its premise, promising a blend of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving across a series of interconnected realms. However, the execution seems to divide opinion, with various aspects of the game receiving mixed feedback.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Graven’s gameplay is a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. The game encourages players to delve into its world, uncovering secrets and solving puzzles to progress through its levels. Combat is a significant component, initially slow-paced but gradually intensifying as players unlock a range of weapons and face increasingly formidable foes. Despite these promising elements, some aspects of the gameplay, such as the implementation of magic and the overall pacing, have been critiqued for lacking impact or precision.
Visuals and Atmosphere
One area where Graven shines is in its visuals and atmosphere, successfully capturing the essence of ’90s shooters with a modern twist. The game’s art, audio, and level design work together to evoke nostalgia while introducing elements like voiced NPCs, branching missions, and equipment upgrades that were absent in its inspirations. The mix of old and new continues to be a theme, with the game’s retro aesthetic praised for its attention to detail and atmospheric environments.
Combat and Exploration
Combat in Graven starts with basic melee weapons and evolves as players unlock more diverse armaments, including magic spells and ranged weapons. However, critiques have been raised about the combat system’s lack of feedback and the awkwardness of melee hitboxes. Exploration is encouraged, with puzzles and platforming elements adding depth to the game’s levels. Yet, some design choices, such as the stamina system for platforming, have been noted as frustrating, detracting from the overall experience.
Pros
- Successfully captures the nostalgic feel of ’90s shooters
- Visuals and atmosphere are highly praised for their detail and mood
- Exploration and puzzle-solving are engaging and encourage deep dives into the game’s world
Cons
- Combat can feel clunky and lacks the satisfying impact expected of the genre
- Some gameplay mechanics, like the stamina system for platforming, are frustrating
- Magic, while visually impressive, is criticized for its limited utility in combat
Comparisons and Similar Games
Graven draws clear inspiration from classics like Hexen and Heretic, aiming to blend their atmospheric and gameplay elements with modern sensibilities. While it captures the essence of these titles, comparisons with more recent retro-inspired shooters reveal areas where Graven struggles, particularly in combat fluidity and mechanics refinement.
