Ultros is a new metroidvania game that aims to stand out among the increasing number of options in the genre. It sets itself apart through a combination of satisfying platforming, fast combat, and a departure from the traditional metroidvania formula. While some of its experimental elements may not land perfectly, Ultros manages to make a mark in the genre.
The game starts with you waking up on a spaceship, surrounded by alien species. You learn that the ship is actually a sarcophagus for an all-powerful deity, and in order to be free, you must sever the connection of eight beings to the system. Ultros introduces a time-looping mechanic, where you are sent back to your last save point upon death. However, the game still maintains its metroidvania roots, with new loops starting after pivotal actions and a central hub resetting the world. While some progress is reset, it becomes easier to reacquire lost upgrades and items with each loop.
One of Ultros’ strengths is its captivating setting, with each area of the sarcophagus offering unique biomes and environmental stories. The art style is a striking combination of biomechanics and vibrant colors, reminiscent of a Tool album or Hotline Miami. The attention to detail extends to animations, adding to the overall oddity and immersion of the game.
In terms of gameplay, Ultros offers satisfying hack-and-slash action. As you progress, you unlock new abilities and upgrades that add depth to combat. Enemies drop consumable rewards, encouraging strategic decision-making during fights. The introduction of new enemy types keeps combat engaging without becoming overly difficult.
The game also features a nutrition-based upgrade system, where specific attributes need to be unlocked by consuming fruits and monster parts. While the concept is interesting, the implementation lacks resource-management tension. Upgrades are reset with each loop, but it becomes easier to accumulate resources and max out the upgrade tree.
Permanent upgrades are unlocked through the story, allowing access to new areas of the map. However, the limited pool of upgrades can feel underwhelming, as only a few are necessary for progression. Horticulture plays a significant role in Ultros, with various plants offering benefits and abilities. However, the lack of clear descriptions for each seed can be frustrating, and understanding their intricacies takes time.
Overall, Ultros offers a unique take on the metroidvania genre with its blend of platforming, combat, and experimental elements. Its captivating setting, striking art style, and satisfying gameplay make it a standout game in the genre. While it has its flaws, Ultros is a worthwhile addition to any metroidvania enthusiast’s library.
Ultros Review Analysis
Ultros is a game that goes beyond its initial goal and offers a wide range of experiences. The main objectives can be revisited in different circumstances, leading to new interactions and alternative endings. Exploring these additional objectives reveals the thoughtful map design of Ultros, particularly in connecting the various biomes through a “living network.” This biological consciousness can be linked to existing structures and plants, creating shortcuts and unlocking different endings. The process of spreading the network itself becomes a rewarding challenge, requiring strategic thinking and a deep understanding of the map’s construction.
Ultros stands out in the metroidvania genre by incorporating novel ideas that elevate its gameplay. While it borrows elements from other genres, it does so thoughtfully, always staying true to the core principles of engaging exploration and rewarding progression. However, the game’s complexity can sometimes lead to frustration due to vague mechanical aspects. Despite this, Ultros remains an immersive adventure set in a visually stunning world. It entices players to uncover its secrets and stories, encouraging them to stay and explore beyond their initial escape.
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