Tales of Kenzera: Zau is a Metroidvania video game that was released on March 15, 2024, and is available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PC, and Xbox Series X/S, and was also a day-one inclusion on PSPlus.
Visuals and Environment
The world of Kenzera is nothing short of breathtaking. The game’s environment is richly detailed and bursting with colour, immersing players in a visually stunning world. From lush forests to destroyed towns, every location feels alive and meticulously crafted. The artistic style brings a unique charm to the game, making exploration a delightful experience. Each area has a distinct aesthetic that not only pleases the eyes but also enhances the narrative’s immersion.
Storytelling and Narrative
One of the standout features of Tales of Kenzera: Zau is its deep connection to traditional storytelling. The narrative is woven with folklore and myth, creating a story that feels both timeless and fresh. The characters are well-developed, and their journeys are compelling, drawing players into a rich tapestry of tales. The dialogue is well-written, and the voice acting adds an extra layer of depth to the characters, making their stories even more engaging.
Gameplay Mechanics
The gameplay is a mix of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving. The combat system is intuitive and satisfying, with a variety of skills and abilities that keep encounters exciting. Puzzles are cleverly integrated into the environment, requiring players to think creatively and use their surroundings to progress. This may take some figuring out, but even the difficulty of some of the more difficult puzzles are welcome addition to a beautifully crafted game.
Traversal Challenges
However, not everything is perfect. Some of the traversal elements in the game can be a bit too touchy. There are moments when jumps and climbs need to be executed with pinpoint accuracy, which can lead to frustration. These sections can disrupt the flow of the game, as players might need multiple attempts to get past certain obstacles. While not a deal-breaker, this aspect does slightly mar the overall experience.
Personal Experience
As someone who hasn’t been big into platformers of late, Tales of Kenzera: Zau has reintroduced me to the genre in a refreshing way. The game’s combination of storytelling and gameplay mechanics has sparked my interest, and I find myself eager to explore other platformer titles that offer similar depth and immersion.
Final Thoughts
Tales of Kenzera: Zau is a remarkable game that excels in creating a vivid, immersive world and telling a compelling story. Its beautiful environments and rich narrative offer an experience that is both engaging and memorable. Despite some minor issues with traversal mechanics, the game remains a must-play for fans of action-adventure titles. Overall, it earns a well-deserved 9/10.
Gareth Ellis - Author 