Pyre (2017)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 8 minutes read

Summary

Pyre: A Journey of Exile, Redemption, and the Power of Storytelling

Released in 2017, Pyre is a party-based RPG/visual novel/sports game hybrid from Supergiant Games, the acclaimed indie studio behind Bastion and Transistor. The game follows the story of the Reader, a mysterious figure who is exiled to a lawless wasteland called the Downside and must lead their ever-growing party of misfits to locations wherein many similar parties compete in Rites in order to attain freedom and be absolved of their crimes.

Pyre is a unique and engrossing game that blends together elements from a variety of genres to create a truly unforgettable experience. The game’s visuals are stunning, with a vibrant and colorful art style that brings the world of the Downside to life. The music is also top-notch, with a haunting and atmospheric soundtrack that perfectly complements the game’s themes of exile, redemption, and the power of storytelling.

The gameplay in Pyre is a mix of traditional RPG elements and sports-like competitions. Players will travel across the Downside, recruiting new party members and competing in Rites in order to earn freedom for their group. The Rites themselves are a unique blend of strategy and action, and they require players to use their wits and teamwork in order to succeed.

In addition to its innovative gameplay, Pyre also features a compelling story with a cast of well-developed and relatable characters. The game explores themes of exile, redemption, and the power of storytelling, and it does so in a way that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

The World of the Downside

The Downside is a lawless wasteland that is home to a variety of exiles, criminals, and outcasts. It is a harsh and unforgiving land, but it is also a place of great beauty and wonder. The Downside is ruled by the Scribes, a group of enigmatic beings who oversee the Rites and determine who is worthy of redemption.

The Reader is a mysterious figure who is exiled to the Downside after being accused of a crime. The Reader is quickly taken in by a group of scavengers who call themselves the Nightwings. The Nightwings are a diverse group of individuals who have all been exiled to the Downside for one reason or another. Together, the Reader and the Nightwings must travel across the Downside and compete in Rites in order to earn their freedom.

The Rites

The Rites are a series of ancient competitions that are held in the Downside. The Rites are a test of strength, skill, and teamwork, and they are the only way for exiles to earn their freedom. The Rites are overseen by the Scribes, who determine who is worthy of redemption.

There are three different types of Rites in Pyre:

  • Chariot Races: Chariot races are fast-paced and exciting races that require players to use their wits and teamwork in order to succeed. Players must guide their chariot through a series of obstacles and traps, while also avoiding attacks from their opponents.
  • Tribunal Trials: Tribunal trials are debates that require players to use their intelligence and persuasion to convince the Scribes that they are worthy of redemption. Players must present evidence and arguments in support of their case, and they must be able to counter the arguments of their opponents.
  • Liberation Rites: Liberation rites are battles that require players to defeat a powerful opponent in order to earn their freedom. Liberation rites are the most challenging of the Rites, but they are also the most rewarding.

The Characters

Pyre features a cast of well-developed and relatable characters. Each character has their own unique story and motivations, and they all play an important role in the game’s narrative.

  • The Reader: The Reader is a mysterious figure who is exiled to the Downside after being accused of a crime. The Reader is a skilled tactician and a gifted storyteller, and they quickly become the leader of the Nightwings.
  • Hedwyn: Hedwyn is a former soldier who was exiled to the Downside after refusing to follow orders. Hedwyn is a skilled fighter and a loyal friend, and he is always willing to put himself in harm’s way to protect his companions.
  • Ti’zo: Ti’zo is a young woman who was exiled to the Downside after being accused of witchcraft. Ti’zo is a powerful mage and a skilled healer, and she is always willing to help those in need.
  • Pamitha: Pamitha is a former priestess who was exiled to the Downside after questioning the teachings of her faith. Pamitha is a wise and compassionate woman, and she is always willing to offer guidance and support to her companions.
  • Rukey: Rukey is a young boy who was exiled to the Downside after being orphaned. Rukey is a quick learner and a skilled thief, and he is always eager to prove himself.

Themes

Pyre explores a variety of themes, including exile, redemption, and the power of storytelling.

  • Exile: Exile is a major theme in Pyre. The game’s主角s are all exiles who have been cast out of society for one reason or another. The game explores the challenges and hardships that exiles face, as well as the hope and redemption that they can find in each other.
  • Redemption: Redemption is another major theme in Pyre. The game’s主角s are all seeking redemption for their past mistakes. The game explores the different paths to redemption, as well as the challenges and obstacles that must be overcome in order to achieve it.
  • The Power of Storytelling: Storytelling is a powerful force in Pyre. The game’s story is told through a series of campfire tales, and the player’s choices can affect the outcome of the story. The game explores the power of storytelling to entertain, inspire, and change the world.

Conclusion

Pyre is a beautiful and haunting game that explores the themes of exile, redemption, and the power of storytelling. It is a must-play for fans of RPGs, visual novels, and sports games. With its stunning visuals, haunting music, compelling story, and well-developed characters, Pyre is a game that will stay with you long after you finish playing it.

Review Score

9.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Profile photo of Ji-yeong

Ji-yeong is a passionate gamer and whose love for video games blossomed during her childhood. Growing up in the midwest, without many friends, she spent countless hours exploring the enchanting worlds of classic JRPGs like Final Fantasy and Chrono Trigger, which sparked not only an enduring love for gaming but also a keen insight into its evolving landscape. Today, Ji-yeong channels her deep-seated passion and nostalgia into thoughtful, engaging reviews that resonate with both longtime gamers and newcomers alike. Her unique perspective, rooted in a rich history of gaming, offers readers a heartfelt journey through the pixels and stories that have shaped her love for this dynamic medium. Her favorite game series of all time is Harvest Moon.

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