A captivating sequel that refines the Metroidvania formula
By Paul Hunter
The follow up to 2021's action role-playing platform game Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights from developer Adglobe and Live Wire, and publisher by Binary Haze Interactive is here. Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a dark fantasy metroidvania that continues the enchanting story and addictive gameplay that won players over in the original game.
Ender Magnolia builds upon the strong foundation laid by its predecessor. With refined combat, expanded exploration, and a continued focus on atmospheric storytelling, this sequel delivers an even more immersive and rewarding metroidvania experience. Whether you enjoyed the original or are new to the series, the dark beauty and challenging gameplay of Ender Magnolia is sure to captivate you from start to finish.
Set in the same world decades after the events of the first game, Ender Magnolia takes you to the magical nation of the Land of Fumes. This prosperous land owes its success to a vast underground arcane source, which was used to create artificial life in the form of Homunculi. However, toxic gas from below caused these beings to descend into madness, becoming uncontrollable monsters.
As Lilac, a young "Tuner" with the power to purify the Homunculi, you must explore the decaying Land of Fumes, from robotic laboratories to mystical academies, in order to restore balance. Along the way, you acquire new Homunculi companions to aid you in battle and unlock new paths through the interconnected world.
The narrative of Ender Magnolia expertly builds upon the foundations laid by its predecessor, weaving an intriguing tale of a once-thriving civilisation now on the brink of collapse. The game's unique storytelling, conveyed through environmental details and sparse but impactful dialogue, draws you into the plight of Land of Fumes and the personal journey of Lilac. Uncovering the mysteries behind the Homunculi's corruption and the history of this fantastical world becomes a thought-provoking endeavour, with each new area and encounter revealing tantalising breadcrumbs of information.
Moreover, the game offers two endings depending on your actions and decisions. This bumps up the replay value as there are extra side missions, bosses and even full optional areas to explore that provide the clues needed to unlock the more challenging "good" ending that gives a more meaningful conclusion to Lilac's quest.
Ender Magnolia boasts finely-tuned gameplay that expands upon the already great base laid down by the original game. At the heart of the gameplay is the Homunculi system, the artificial life forms that serve as your companions throughout the adventure.
As Lilac, after defeating Homunculi in battle, you have the ability to purify these corrupted creatures, allowing you to recruit them to your cause. Each Homunculus possesses unique abilities, from melee attacks to ranged support, which you can strategically assign to four action buttons. This versatile system encourages experimentation, as you discover the optimal Homunculus combinations to overcome the diverse challenges you'll face.
It's quite impressive how rapidly you can acquire Homunculus and start doling out serious damage to enemies and bosses. There are multiple Homunculi that fire projectiles and you can use simultaneous literally filling the screen with enemy-piercing bullets and projectiles. On the other hand, melee Homunculus deliver slower, yet more deadly strikes for those brave enough to fire up close and personal. You can also use some of Homunculus abilities to aid in platforming, which can make some of the more challenging room a bit easier to navigate. Each Homunculus has three different abilities you can unlock, and individual abilities can be powered up three time if you find the right items.
The combat itself is both fluid and satisfying, with a responsive control scheme that allows you to seamlessly transition between your Homunculi's abilities. Whether you prefer a more aggressive approach, utilising powerful area-of-effect attacks, or a more defensive strategy, relying on your companions to shield and support you, the gameplay adapts to your playstyle.
Exploration is a core pillar of Ender Magnolia, and the game's level design excels in this regard. The huge, interconnected world of the Land of Fumes is a joy to navigate, with hidden paths, secret rooms, and environmental puzzles that encourage thorough investigation. The inclusion of a detailed map, which highlights areas of interest and sections you're 100% completed, ensures you never feel lost or directionless.
One particularly noteworthy aspect of the exploration is the way in which the game introduces new abilities and traversal options. As you progress, you'll unlock Homunculi with skills that grant access to previously inaccessible areas, including double jump, a ground pound that destroys growths, and wall jumping, which incentivises you to revisit earlier locations. This sense of progression and discovery is immensely satisfying, as you gradually uncover the full scope of the map's labyrinthine design.
Complementing the exploration is the game's robust system of equipment and upgrades. Throughout your journey, you'll acquire a variety of Relics, which provide passive bonuses to your stats and abilities. These can be further enhanced through a dedicated upgrade system, allowing you to customise Lilac's capabilities to suit your preferred playstyle. There are also rings, carapaces and other items you can equip to bolster Lilac's stats or provide new abilities.
Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist's gameplay is a well-crafted blend of combat, exploration, and progression that consistently delivers a sense of challenge and accomplishment. Whether you're meticulously combing through each area or tackling the game's formidable boss encounters, the gameplay loop remains entertaining and rewarding throughout the entirety of the adventure.
Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a visual treat, showcasing the exceptional artistry of its developers. From the moment you step into the decaying realm of the Land of Fumes, you are captivated by the game's stunning aesthetic. The environments are a mesmerising blend of the whimsical and the macabre, with each area meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of melancholy and wonder.
The attention to detail in the game's visuals is truly impressive, whether it's crumbling architecture, fog-shrouded forests, and subterranean waterways, they all come alive with a level of intricacy not seen in most Metroidvanias. The use of light and shadow is particularly noteworthy, casting an atmospheric glow that heightens the sense of foreboding and unease that permeates the adventure.
Complementing the visuals is the game's exceptional soundtrack, which oscillates between soothing melodies and ominous, haunting tones. The music seamlessly blends with the on-screen action, amplifying the emotional impact of the narrative and enhancing the overall immersion. Whether you are traversing the gorgeous landscapes or participating in intense battles, the soundtrack always manages to capture the essence of each moment.
Final Score: 9/10 - Amazing
Developer: Adglobe, Live Wire
Publisher: Binary Haze Interactive
Genre: Metroidvania, Platformer, Adventure
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: T (Teen)
A key was provided by the publisher.
By Paul Hunter
The follow up to 2021's action role-playing platform game Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights from developer Adglobe and Live Wire, and publisher by Binary Haze Interactive is here. Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a dark fantasy metroidvania that continues the enchanting story and addictive gameplay that won players over in the original game.
Ender Magnolia builds upon the strong foundation laid by its predecessor. With refined combat, expanded exploration, and a continued focus on atmospheric storytelling, this sequel delivers an even more immersive and rewarding metroidvania experience. Whether you enjoyed the original or are new to the series, the dark beauty and challenging gameplay of Ender Magnolia is sure to captivate you from start to finish.
Set in the same world decades after the events of the first game, Ender Magnolia takes you to the magical nation of the Land of Fumes. This prosperous land owes its success to a vast underground arcane source, which was used to create artificial life in the form of Homunculi. However, toxic gas from below caused these beings to descend into madness, becoming uncontrollable monsters.
As Lilac, a young "Tuner" with the power to purify the Homunculi, you must explore the decaying Land of Fumes, from robotic laboratories to mystical academies, in order to restore balance. Along the way, you acquire new Homunculi companions to aid you in battle and unlock new paths through the interconnected world.
The narrative of Ender Magnolia expertly builds upon the foundations laid by its predecessor, weaving an intriguing tale of a once-thriving civilisation now on the brink of collapse. The game's unique storytelling, conveyed through environmental details and sparse but impactful dialogue, draws you into the plight of Land of Fumes and the personal journey of Lilac. Uncovering the mysteries behind the Homunculi's corruption and the history of this fantastical world becomes a thought-provoking endeavour, with each new area and encounter revealing tantalising breadcrumbs of information.
Moreover, the game offers two endings depending on your actions and decisions. This bumps up the replay value as there are extra side missions, bosses and even full optional areas to explore that provide the clues needed to unlock the more challenging "good" ending that gives a more meaningful conclusion to Lilac's quest.
Ender Magnolia boasts finely-tuned gameplay that expands upon the already great base laid down by the original game. At the heart of the gameplay is the Homunculi system, the artificial life forms that serve as your companions throughout the adventure.
As Lilac, after defeating Homunculi in battle, you have the ability to purify these corrupted creatures, allowing you to recruit them to your cause. Each Homunculus possesses unique abilities, from melee attacks to ranged support, which you can strategically assign to four action buttons. This versatile system encourages experimentation, as you discover the optimal Homunculus combinations to overcome the diverse challenges you'll face.
It's quite impressive how rapidly you can acquire Homunculus and start doling out serious damage to enemies and bosses. There are multiple Homunculi that fire projectiles and you can use simultaneous literally filling the screen with enemy-piercing bullets and projectiles. On the other hand, melee Homunculus deliver slower, yet more deadly strikes for those brave enough to fire up close and personal. You can also use some of Homunculus abilities to aid in platforming, which can make some of the more challenging room a bit easier to navigate. Each Homunculus has three different abilities you can unlock, and individual abilities can be powered up three time if you find the right items.
The combat itself is both fluid and satisfying, with a responsive control scheme that allows you to seamlessly transition between your Homunculi's abilities. Whether you prefer a more aggressive approach, utilising powerful area-of-effect attacks, or a more defensive strategy, relying on your companions to shield and support you, the gameplay adapts to your playstyle.
Exploration is a core pillar of Ender Magnolia, and the game's level design excels in this regard. The huge, interconnected world of the Land of Fumes is a joy to navigate, with hidden paths, secret rooms, and environmental puzzles that encourage thorough investigation. The inclusion of a detailed map, which highlights areas of interest and sections you're 100% completed, ensures you never feel lost or directionless.
One particularly noteworthy aspect of the exploration is the way in which the game introduces new abilities and traversal options. As you progress, you'll unlock Homunculi with skills that grant access to previously inaccessible areas, including double jump, a ground pound that destroys growths, and wall jumping, which incentivises you to revisit earlier locations. This sense of progression and discovery is immensely satisfying, as you gradually uncover the full scope of the map's labyrinthine design.
Complementing the exploration is the game's robust system of equipment and upgrades. Throughout your journey, you'll acquire a variety of Relics, which provide passive bonuses to your stats and abilities. These can be further enhanced through a dedicated upgrade system, allowing you to customise Lilac's capabilities to suit your preferred playstyle. There are also rings, carapaces and other items you can equip to bolster Lilac's stats or provide new abilities.
Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist's gameplay is a well-crafted blend of combat, exploration, and progression that consistently delivers a sense of challenge and accomplishment. Whether you're meticulously combing through each area or tackling the game's formidable boss encounters, the gameplay loop remains entertaining and rewarding throughout the entirety of the adventure.
Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a visual treat, showcasing the exceptional artistry of its developers. From the moment you step into the decaying realm of the Land of Fumes, you are captivated by the game's stunning aesthetic. The environments are a mesmerising blend of the whimsical and the macabre, with each area meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of melancholy and wonder.
The attention to detail in the game's visuals is truly impressive, whether it's crumbling architecture, fog-shrouded forests, and subterranean waterways, they all come alive with a level of intricacy not seen in most Metroidvanias. The use of light and shadow is particularly noteworthy, casting an atmospheric glow that heightens the sense of foreboding and unease that permeates the adventure.
Complementing the visuals is the game's exceptional soundtrack, which oscillates between soothing melodies and ominous, haunting tones. The music seamlessly blends with the on-screen action, amplifying the emotional impact of the narrative and enhancing the overall immersion. Whether you are traversing the gorgeous landscapes or participating in intense battles, the soundtrack always manages to capture the essence of each moment.
The Verdict
Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a sequel that refines and improves upon the formula that made its predecessor, Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights, such an thrilling ride. It offers a compelling metroidvania package with a fascinating world, well-crafted combat system, and richly detailed environments that are at the top of its genre. It's an excellent addition to the series and one that Metroidvania fans shouldn't miss out on.Final Score: 9/10 - Amazing
Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist details
Platform: PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PCDeveloper: Adglobe, Live Wire
Publisher: Binary Haze Interactive
Genre: Metroidvania, Platformer, Adventure
Modes: Single-player
ESRB Rating: T (Teen)
A key was provided by the publisher.