Gorgeous and insane
Go on any video game forum and the number one complaint you hear from gamers is that no one in the industry takes risks. That every game is a rehash of the same old stuff. Well, El Shaddai is here to demonstrate that developers can still go on a limb and do something crazy.
Game play: The very definition of a character action game and probably the most normal element of the game. If you have played Devil May Cry, or any game like it you will know what it is about. But it works, with tight controls and combat that is deep enough to be satisfying without being overly complex or too simple.
Where it falls apart a bit is the polygonal plat-forming, it’s maddening. There are some 2D plat-forming stages that are a real treat, but the polygonal level design is completely over the top, with many rooms being composed of platforms just floating in empty space. Given that the camera is fixed, it can make judging distance and depth a huge challenge.
Story: Probably the weakest point of the game but still enjoyable. It is unique in the fact that the plot takes inspiration from the Book of Enoch and other biblical sources. And then reinterprets them. However, as the game progresses it kind of looses focus. And at the end the game felt that it left many unresolved questions.
Graphics: One word, incredible. The visuals are gorgeous and the main reason to play the game. The level design is some of the most unique and insane that I have ever seen. Plus, given the context of the story, it works no matter how over the top it may seem.
Music: Appropriate for the title. Mostly orchestral scores with choirs. What one would imagine from a game dealing with fallen angels.
Who is this game for: Anybody who complains that game developers don’t take risks. Sure, the story is a bit out there, and the plat-forming may cause you to throw your controller to the screen. Still, the uniqueness of the game makes its worth checking out.