Developer: Simon Jakobsson, Aurora Punks
Platforms: Linux, macOS, PC (Reviewed), PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox Series S|X
Genre: Action, Adventure, RPG
Publisher: Headup
Vessels of Decay is a beautiful indie action-adventure game that was developed by Simon Jakobsson and Aurora Punks and published by Headup. This review was done for the Windows version, but the game is also available for Linux, macOS, PS4, PS5, Switch and Xbox Series S|X.
It’s set in a post-apocalyptic world, following Freja and Mud, two sisters who are on a quest to resurrect their deceased mother. Along the way, they encounter mythical beasts and have to travel their way through this post-apocalyptic world. The pacing of the story is deliberately slow at times, allowing players to soak in the atmosphere, but it builds tension towards key narrative moments and boss encounters.
The art style is pixelated and extremely strongly suited. Every scene is detailed and well-crafted, with shadows, characters and nature. Even the skeletons featured in the game are meticulously detailed and bathed in cool undertones showcasing the world’s decay. The music is composed by Dominic Ninmark, and the soundtrack is a sombre melody of tension and suspense.
The controls are deliberate and easy. Allowing for mixed timings, combos and efficient manoeuvres. Some controls have been harder to use than others, such as the hanging on, while using the space bar, tends to be slow and doesn’t mantle properly. Controls can only be used when in extremely close contact, which can harm the smooth gameplay. Some controls can drag on and seem underdeveloped.
The game has many bugs and glitches, such as getting stuck into objects and walls, having to reload checkpoints, sprinting, or invisible enemies, which can be frustrating and damage the gameplay. But they are being worked on to be resolved as soon as possible to allow for smooth gameplay. However, until the game reaches a more stable state, these problems continue to weigh down an otherwise compelling experience. I also did come across certain points in the game where I felt stuck and confused about how to continue onwards, as some areas felt a little unclear.
The game does require some polishing, as even some stages of the story seem to lack. At first, the story was quite compelling, but after playing the game, it was simple, with nothing out of the ordinary. Dialogue became a bit bleak, and the overall story seemed to fade away from the greatness it offered at the start. Not the less, the game does offer cutscene that enhances the gameplay, making for a chilling environment and embracing the pixelated visuals.
One of the more exciting potentials for Vessels of Decay is the ability to switch between Freja and Mud (when I died, it switched me to the other girl). I think a co-op mode added to the game, where two players control each sibling simultaneously, would not only reinforce the emotional themes of sisterhood and cooperation but would introduce a new layer to the gameplay. Solving puzzles and combat synergy would enhance the gameplay. It should be considered as both of the characters are already the centre of the game.
Vessels of Decay is an indie gem with extraordinary combat and story. Though some systems feel unfinished, it is still able to deliver a memorable journey punctuated by its richly designed bosses and haunting environments. If you’re drawn into folklore and elegant pixelated worlds, Vessels of Decay is truly worth exploring.
Overall: 7.5/10
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