Back in the “good ol’ days” of gaming – the mid-2000’s and 2010’s – more studios were willing to take chances on artistic journeys. Games like Rez and Okami reminded us that there were creative forces at play, willing to try something new for audiences to discover. And bless ‘em for it, as they have motivated indie studios to do the same.
What’s more, today’s indie scene has also inspired a number of these companies to give these games a try again. Hence, the return of El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron, which initially debuted for consoles back in 2011. A hack and slasher with a deft touch, El Shaddai wasn’t for everyone. But those that took a chance upon it were humbly rewarded with an experience, filled with lots of beautiful imagery. Not to mention some food for thought.
Now the game returns with a Nintendo Switch HD remaster, and though there are times it can get a little stuck in its own universe, there’s no question that the game deserves a revisit. What a gorgeous sight it continues to be, after all these years.
A Tale To Tell
The game tells the story of Enoch, a mysterious figure who has been given the near impossibly mission to recover seven fallen angels. It seems that God has a great deal of confidence in his abilities, since only he can defeat the Nephilim and make things right.
We’ll be honest. The story is pretty deep here. But that’s really part of what makes El Shaddai stand out so well. It’s told in a relaxing manner, and the more you get into it, the more the universe opens up here. Not to mention that it’s all done with compelling voice acting, with a lot of thought put behind it.
Of course, you’re here for the gameplay. It’s like Devil May Cry with some angelic touches. Enoch is capable of opening up his arsenal with each new weapon he acquires from enemies. One minute he’s dazzling with a sword in hand; and the next he grabs something that really opens things up. It’s fun how the gameplay keeps evolving over the course of your 11-level adventure.
That said, there are times that the combat can enter into lulls, especially if you pick up a similar weapon like you had before. This is a game that could’ve used a slight bit more growth when it comes to combo modifiers. But it’s still fun, especially as you discover new tools of the trade.
Also, the bosses could’ve used a little more mixing up. More often than not you’ll face the same type, using similar strategies to take them down as you did before. It’s not the end of the world, but some more keen design choices would’ve done some good here.
But I digress. What’s here is still very good and will suit action fans, and it’s all backed by a story that stands out from the norm. There’s nothing wrong with innovation, as long as it’s done right.
What a Dazzling Presentation
Of course, a game like El Shaddai can’t survive on gameplay alone. Fortunately, it’s loaded with a presentation that, after all these years, comes across as refreshing and original.
The HD transfer truly benefits from this, as you can see the backdrops unfold beautifully across the landscape. There’s a fine use of colors here, along with imaginative touches, particularly with some character designs. It all moves very smoothly, with only a few slight hiccups amidst an otherwise solid presentation. It’s a sight on the go, but, really, you’ll want to play this on the biggest TV you can find. It looks that good.
Along with that, the sound is a revelation. The team at Ignition Tokyo (with the port lovingly handled by Gamera Game) did a banger of a job with the soundtrack, with themes that fit the otherworldly theme almost perfectly. You’ll even hear choirs sing, adding to the overall angelic tone of the game. That, combined with the vivid sound effects and the aforementioned (and awesome) voice acting, make this an experience. If you can, get a set of rad headphones for this one.
Bless the Gaming Gods
Once more, I have to say that El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron HD Remaster isn’t for everyone. Some may find the story a bit heavy-handed, and the gameplay a bit one-note without the evolution of bosses and gameplay tweaks.
But there’s still a lot here, and it makes me thankful this game got a second chance. It still plays wonderfully, especially as you add new weapons into the mix; and its presentation remains unmatched, a dream-like experience that will truly enchant those willing to give it a chance.
The original was something else, but it’s awesome to see the team at Crim give El Shaddai a second chance at life. Don’t miss it this time ’round.
GAMERHUB RATING: FOUR (out of FIVE) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to our friends at PR Hound for the review code!
