Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist Review – Beauty and The Blight

Following the departure from early access in June 2021, Ender Lilies left a lasting impression on me and ever since, I’ve been eagerly waiting for the upcoming sequel, Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist. Unlike its precursor that seemingly appeared out of nowhere to deliver a heartfelt and traditional Metroid-esque experience, this new title carries significant anticipation. Will developers Adglobe and Live Wire be able to recapture the enchanting ambiance and magic of the original? Will Mili once again dazzle us with another stunning soundtrack?

To put it simply: For those who purchased early access last year, the answer is affirmative to both questions. The new game, Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist, follows a similar design structure as before and will likely resonate more with players who have experienced Ender Lilies. However, it offers an expertly crafted adventure reminiscent of the Metroid series, continuing the storyline of a desolate world.

The narrative flows smoothly without becoming overly verbose in its conversations, and the evoked recollections from different Homunculi resonate deeply, advancing the plot effectively.

In a similar fashion as its prior version, the narrative commences by introducing Lilac, who finds herself in a labirinthe with scant recollections. Accompanying her is Nola, another enigmatic character, and together they traverse the Land of Mists to unravel their identities. However, their journey isn’t straightforward as they encounter multiple Homunculi that have been altered by the noxious fumes seeping from the land’s lower regions.

Absolutely, Lilac stands out with her unique abilities as an Attuner. She’s capable of healing those affected by a strange illness. Unlike many others, she doesn’t engage in direct combat; instead, she utilizes the powers of multiple Homunculi to wage battles on her behalf.

Initially, she’s only accompanied by Nola, but soon other Homunculi enter the battlefield, such as Lito, a test subject with a formidable elemental arm; Yolvan, a gun-toting creature born from animal fusion who has a friendly bond with Levy; the Brute Force Homunculus, who depends on raw power; and others. They soon transform into an eccentric group, bantering (and sometimes bickering) during breaks while also dealing with their own disturbing pasts.

In terms of its themes, “Ender Magnolia” presents familiar elements such as greed, discrimination, classism, and hubris. However, the narrative’s development is engaging, as you piece together the relationships between Houses Frost and Milius, Lilac, and other aspects. The pace remains consistent throughout, avoiding unnecessary verbosity in dialogue sequences. Moreover, the recollections of different Homunculi effectively evoke emotion while driving the plot forward. Additional characters contribute to the complexity of events, helping Lilac when required, although some could benefit from further character development.

The controls are very responsive and offer a fantastic feel. My one minor complaint about the settings, however, is a desire for more diversity in the secret locations. Finding a concealed wall usually just reveals additional resources or a Relic, but I wish there was more to discover.

In terms of gameplay mechanics, Ender Magnolia deviates from its predecessor in several key aspects. Unlike Ender Lilies, it features fewer Homunculi, but each one possesses unique abilities that can be acquired and utilized. For instance, Nola specializes in swift saber attacks, scythe strikes for broader coverage or dual-wielding an axe, while Yolvan offers single shots from afar, a slower yet more powerful buzzsaw, or a drill-like vortex that bypasses enemy defenses. As you gather resources, these abilities can be enhanced and upgraded to stronger, slightly modified versions.

As a devoted player, I appreciate the versatility that most of these game elements offer, particularly during my adventures and encounters with bosses. It’s a comfort knowing that abilities like the Shackled Beast’s roar serve as defensive options, and Lito’s burst damage can be used almost at will, rather than having to strategically conserve them. Additionally, the Attuner Arts, which are powerful skills unique to each Homunculus I equip, add an exciting Ultimate-like dimension to gameplay. While I need to accumulate SP to unleash these abilities, their potency makes it all worthwhile.

In Ender Magnolia, you’ll find an array of gear pieces, such as bangles that enhance your stats, armor called Carapaces that grant extra skills, including counters, and Totems offering passive advantages to complement the Relics system from the past. The variety is quite impressive, making it worthwhile to experiment even if you primarily use certain Relics throughout your gaming sessions. You can also modify your Relics with Scrap, which lets them require fewer slots or offer direct increases to their perks.

If you’ve delved into any significant Metroid-style game within the last five years, you’ll recognize the drill. Roam through intricately linked settings, from open areas to concealed nooks and subterranean caverns, employing familiar platforming moves like double-jumps, mid-air dashes, diving, wall-grinding, and a grappling hook for good measure. Fend off a diverse assortment of adversaries, making each fresh zone both intriguing and perilous. Encounter dead ends that will only yield to a power yet to be acquired. Rinse and repeat!

Ender Magnolia maintains its formula flawlessly in all other crucial aspects. The level design is commendable, offering distinct features without compromising the overall continuity, although the Crimson Forest might be perplexing if you neglect the map sometimes. The controls are smooth and provide a satisfying feel. My minor complaint about the environments lies in the repetitiveness of secret areas, which often involve discovering a hidden wall that leads to resources or relics with minimal additional content. However, it effectively satisfies the curiosity to delve deeper and uncover what each new area conceals.

The eerie sounds from the Underground Research Facility, the soothing, otherworldly melodies of Old Town – not forgetting the energetic beats of the Battle Music, reminiscent of the Restrained Monster with its quick piano notes and guitar strums – is truly exceptional.”

Or, for a more casual tone:

“From the spooky vibes of the Underground Lab to the serene melodies of Old Town, and the intense rhythms of Battle Music that feel like the wild dance moves of a Restrained Beast with speedy piano licks and guitar solos – it’s all just fantastic!

Although the boss battles might not match up to the complexity of some tougher fights in gaming history, they are skillfully crafted. The predictable patterns can be deceiving since a single mistake could lead to your swift defeat. Sometimes it may seem frustrating, but fortunately, you can adjust the difficulty settings for finer tuning. For instance, if you’re okay with enemy damage levels but believe they have too much health or don’t stay stunned long enough after their break gauge is depleted, then you can modify those aspects accordingly.

Regardless of its occasionally challenging themes, traveling through Ender Magnolia is nothing short of breathtaking. If Ender Lilies was praised for its “ruined beauty”, then Ender Magnolia surpasses it significantly. The steampunk atmosphere, marked by persistent smog and structures reminiscent of old London, is strikingly beautiful. Each location strikes the perfect tone and color scheme, whether you’re navigating the grimy Subterranean Waterway or immersing yourself in the dreamlike Crimson Forest. The blending of 2D and 3D elements is also effective, particularly when viewing the water in certain areas without it appearing excessive.

Mili’s soundtrack significantly enhances this experience. The ominous tones from the Subterranean Testing Site, the soothing ethereal melodies of Old City, and even the intense battle music, such as the Shackled Beast with its rapid piano keys and guitar strums, are exceptional. It perfectly aligns with the series’ overall mood and environment while also seamlessly fitting the Magnolia’s unique setting. The dedication to detail, evident in separate versions of tracks for pauses, makes an already impressive work even more remarkable.

This is a captivating encounter, boasting outstanding gameplay mechanics for both platforming and combat. It provides a satisfying fix for the urge to explore.

In numerous aspects, “Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mists” can be considered a piece of art, yet its development team elevates this beauty with engaging gameplay that is genuinely captivating. It offers a grand adventure, without ever becoming slow or overly extended. Those who enjoyed “Ender Lilies” will undoubtedly be eager to join, but for those hesitant about the full version, fear not – it delivers.

For enthusiasts of the Metroid series who haven’t experienced the original game yet, I suggest you begin there to fully grasp the lore and understand the references. However, even if you don’t, this game offers a captivating experience with top-notch platforming and combat that effectively satisfies your exploratory instincts.

This game was reviewed on PC.

2025-01-21 19:41

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