

However, the map features no pre-set monster spawns, and has randomly-generated sections that change upon your death. It plays as a semi-modern Metroidvania, akin to Hollow Knight or Ori and the Blind Forest. The weakness of Sundered comes from its gameplay direction. It reminds me of looking up at a skyscraper from the street, and feeling as though the whole thing is moments away from falling on me. Hell, even the Sanctuary – the place where you spend Shards to increase your stats – feels “off” due to the massive, smooth stone in the background. The whole time, you are immersed in an environment very clearly not made for you. What I never really experienced is a sense of trepidation regarding a gorgeous, hand-drawn background that features nary a monster or blood stain, but simply a construction completely out of human scale. Pictured: tentacle monster with teeth and eyes in wrong places.
