"Metroidvania" is an action-adventure subgenre with platformer elements and a 2D presentation. The term refers to the industry defining games "Metroid" and "Castlevania" respectively. This category of games may be somewhat frustrating to approach as an outsider, making "Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree" an ideal title for newcomers! Developer Primal Game Studio makes every effort to make their video game enjoyable and accessible to young and old players alike. A deeper look at the game's details follows:
Mandragora is a wonderful computer game for various reasons: its absolutely glorious graphics are enthralling, its mechanics are smooth and enchanting and its forgiving gameplay makes for a very approachable experience (while never detracting from the challenges it poses). Teleportation from any point of the map to another comes at no cost and with ease and simplicity. Monsters telegraph attacks thru smooth animations, so that players can learn their unique behaviors. Character classes are diverse and intricate, causing me to spend a good hour before deciding which play style to go with.
Mandragora offers a "Soulslike" experience (the Dark Souls genre of games) where characters use currency to improve their skillset. Skill trees are intricate and players can cross over between classes. Progression is enjoyable. As the player advances, more customization is made available. Different abilities, along with their upgrades are presented in a clear and agreeable manner. Mandragora is never overwhelming, in a good way.
Mandragora excels in its replayability, offering many inaccessible areas which only later become available, as a player unlocks them. Finding hidden areas is especially exciting, and will have you searching for clues in the environment. Despite being light on narrative, Mandragora offers an array of characters who offer crafting options. Please note that some gamers have criticized this title for its somewhat excessive component farming (though I don't see it as an issue).
Mandragora is an absolutely wonderful experience, and an excellent introduction to 2D platformers. Other games in the genre can be unnerving in their requirement or frustrating to grasp. After Mandragora, I feel confident enough to revisit less welcoming titles, such as "Salt & Sanctuary" or "Grime" which pose just as much of a challenge, but with less friendly interfaces or more nuanced mechanics.
(I give this game a 9 out of 10 for its wonderful simplicity, incredible presentation and enjoyable gameplay. Congratulations, Primal Game Studio!)
Mandragora: Whispers of the Witch Tree is available on Pc, Playstation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch.
