Summary
- Release Year: 2016
- Genres: Adventure, Indie, Platform, Puzzle
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One
- Developers: Puzzling Dream
- Publishers: PlayWay S.A.
The Way (2016): A Journey of Love, Loss, and Redemption
The Way is a beautiful and atmospheric Metroidvania that tells the story of a man named Ethan who journeys to another planet in order to bring his deceased wife back to life. The game is inspired by classic adventure games like Another World, Heart of Darkness, and Flashback, and it features stunning pixel art, a haunting soundtrack, and challenging gameplay.
Ethan’s wife, Luna, died in a car accident, and he is so grief-stricken that he can no longer bear to live. He decides to travel to another planet, called The Way, in order to find a way to bring her back to life.
The Way is a dangerous and unforgiving planet, and Ethan must use all of his skills and resources to survive. He must battle alien creatures, solve puzzles, and navigate treacherous terrain. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters, both friendly and hostile, who help him on his journey.
As Ethan progresses through the game, he learns more about The Way and its secrets. He discovers that the planet is home to a powerful energy source that can be used to grant wishes. However, this power comes at a great price, and Ethan must decide whether he is willing to pay it.
In the end, Ethan must confront his own grief and loss in order to find peace. The Way is a challenging and emotional journey, but it is also a story of hope and redemption.
Gameplay
The Way is a 2D Metroidvania, which means that it is a side-scrolling action-adventure game with a large, interconnected world. The player controls Ethan as he explores The Way, battles enemies, and solves puzzles.
The game features a variety of weapons and items that Ethan can use to progress through the game. These include a sword, a gun, and a grappling hook. Ethan can also use his environment to his advantage, such as by using ledges to climb walls or by using objects to block enemy attacks.
The game’s world is large and complex, and it is filled with secrets and hidden areas. Ethan must explore every nook and cranny of The Way in order to find all of its secrets and complete the game.
Art and Sound
The Way’s pixel art is simply stunning. The game’s world is full of vibrant colors and detailed backgrounds. The character sprites are also very well-animated, and they convey a lot of emotion and personality.
The game’s soundtrack is also excellent. The music is atmospheric and haunting, and it perfectly complements the game’s visuals and gameplay.
Story
The Way’s story is one of the game’s strongest points. The game tells a compelling and emotional story about love, loss, and redemption. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the player will quickly become invested in their journey.
The game’s ending is also very satisfying. It provides a sense of closure for the characters and the player, and it leaves the player with a sense of hope and optimism.
Overall
The Way is a beautiful and atmospheric Metroidvania that tells a compelling and emotional story. The game’s stunning pixel art, haunting soundtrack, and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Score: 9/10
Review Score
8.5/10