As a fan of Ninja Theory's previous work, including the stunning *Heavenly Sword*, I found myself eagerly awaiting the release of *Enslaved*. With its rich visuals, engaging story, and action-adventure style, I was convinced that this game would resonate with me - and I'm happy to say it did not disappoint.
Set in a post-apocalyptic future where remnants of a catastrophic war have left the world in ruins, *Enslaved* places you in the shoes of Monkey, an acrobatic and often angry protagonist. Captured by slavers but quickly freed by the resourceful Trip, you embark on a journey as the duo maneuvers through a perilous landscape filled with towering skyscrapers and hostile mech adversaries. The dynamic between Monkey and Trip is at the heart of the game, showcasing a relationship that evolves from mistrust to friendship, which adds genuine depth to the already immersive experience.
The gameplay itself conjures comparisons to heavyweights like *Uncharted* and *The Last of Us*. While it's worth noting that *Enslaved* predates *The Last of Us*, it still shares similarities in storytelling and character development. Each level guides you from point A to B, while presenting ample opportunities for exploration. The levels are expansive and thoughtfully designed, making traversal enjoyable and engaging. You'll find yourself scaling crumbling structures, engaging in fluid combat with your trusty staff against various mech foes, and solving environmental puzzles that keep the experience fresh.
Visually, *Enslaved* boasts striking graphics powered by Unreal Engine 3, impressive for its time. While it may not quite match *Uncharted* in graphical fidelity, it more than holds its own with action sequences that rival those seen in Naughty Dog's franchise. The production quality is certainly AAA, and the attention to detail shines through in both the gameplay and the stunning environments.
In my playthrough, the voice acting stood out as a highlight, with Andy Serkis delivering a masterful performance as Monkey. The character of Trip is equally compelling, showcasing believable emotions as their bond develops. It's worth mentioning that there are only three human characters throughout the game, a bold choice that contributes to a strong narrative focus. The visuals are complemented by an exceptional soundtrack that enhances the ambiance and overall experience.
One small critique comes from the inclusion of live-action cutscenes. While they are not detrimental to the narrative, they feel slightly disjointed from the game's overall aesthetic and design. Additionally, the ending left me wanting more; I wished for a sequel or at least an extension of the story, especially considering the potential for a rich franchise that was sadly underexplored due to the game's underwhelming commercial performance.
My playthrough lasted around 13-15 hours and was filled with joy and engagement throughout. Despite a few minor grievances, *Enslaved* stands as a remarkable action-adventure experience that deserves recognition. Its blend of compelling characters, well-executed gameplay mechanics, and a beautifully rendered world makes it a game I highly recommend.
Ultimately, I'd give *Enslaved* a solid 9/10. If you have a penchant for story-driven games that prioritize character development and exhilarating action, you owe it to yourself to dive into this captivating journey.
