Solar Ash is a highly anticipated game developed by Heart Machine, the creators of the critically acclaimed Hyper Light Drifter. And boy, does it deliver! From the moment I started playing, I was immediately drawn in by its breathtaking visuals and atmospheric soundtrack.
The game takes place in a world engulfed by a massive black hole known as the Ultravoid. You play as Rei, a skilled void runner, whose mission is to save her home world from being consumed by this cosmic anomaly.
The first thing that struck me about Solar Ash was its stunning art style. The game features a vibrant and colorful world filled with unique environments that are a joy to explore. From the lush vegetation of the overgrown ruins to the futuristic cityscapes, each area is meticulously designed and oozes with a sense of wonder.
But it's not just the visuals that shine in Solar Ash. The gameplay is fast-paced and exhilarating. As Rei, you navigate through the world by dashing, jumping, and grinding on rails, reminiscent of classic platformers like the Tony Hawk's Pro Skater series. The controls are tight and responsive, making it a joy to traverse the landscape.
What sets Solar Ash apart from other platformers is its sense of scale. The world feels vast and ever-expanding, with each new area presenting new challenges and secrets to uncover. The game keeps you engaged by introducing new gameplay mechanics and obstacles as you progress, ensuring that you never get bored.
One aspect of Solar Ash that I truly appreciate is its emphasis on exploration. While there is a main story to follow, the game encourages you to take your time and discover hidden paths, collectibles, and side quests. This adds a layer of depth and replayability to the game, as you never know what surprises you may find.
The narrative in Solar Ash is intriguing, albeit a bit abstract. The story is told through environmental storytelling and occasional dialogue with other characters. It's up to you to piece together the puzzle and unravel the mysteries of the Ultravoid. While some may find the storytelling approach a bit cryptic, I found it to be a refreshing change from the typical linear narrative.
However, Solar Ash does have a few flaws worth mentioning. The camera can be a bit frustrating at times, especially during intense platforming sections where you need precise movements. Additionally, the difficulty can spike in certain areas, resulting in some frustrating moments. While the challenge is generally fair, there were a few instances where it felt a bit unbalanced.
Overall, Solar Ash is an incredible game that showcases the talent and creativity of Heart Machine. From the stunning visuals to the exhilarating gameplay, it offers a truly immersive and memorable experience. Despite a few minor flaws, this game is a must-play for fans of platformers and those who appreciate unique and atmospheric worlds. Strap on your void running shoes and prepare to get lost in the Ultravoid!
