Coridden – Review
OUR RATING: 8/10
Coridden transports players to the post-apocalyptic world of Aasha, a realm where remnants of advanced technology coexist with a society that has regressed to a more primitive lifestyle. The story revolves around four siblings, each equipped with magical gauntlets that grant them the ability to transform into various beasts. This intriguing premise sets the stage for an epic journey filled with exploration and discovery.
Players assume the role of one of the Dayal siblings: Jai, Devi, Lilly, or Eshan. Each character comes with distinct personality traits, although some players may find that these traits do not significantly impact gameplay. The siblings are thrust into a tournament, where their gauntlets activate unexpectedly, revealing their transformative powers. The AI within the gauntlets, named Maya, guides them on their quest to uncover the secrets of their abilities and the fate of their missing father.
Aasha is rich with quests and hidden lore, creating an immersive experience for players. As you traverse the diverse landscapes, from lush forests to desolate ruins, there’s always something new to discover. The game encourages exploration, rewarding curious players with side quests and lore that deepen the narrative.
At its core, Coridden is an action RPG that emphasizes combat and strategy. The game features an engaging combat system that allows players to switch between human and beast forms, each with its own abilities and stamina bars. This dynamic adds a layer of complexity to battles, requiring players to think strategically about how to utilize their transformations effectively.
The standout feature of Coridden is undoubtedly its shapeshifting mechanic. Players can transform into ten different types of beasts, each offering unique abilities and playstyles. For instance, the agile Panteliz allows for swift movement and long jumps, while the tanky Dragolem can absorb damage and clear groups of enemies. This variety ensures that players can tailor their approach to combat based on their preferred playstyle.
In addition to shapeshifting, Coridden offers four distinct character classes: Guardian, Hunter, Hellion, and Surge. Each class comes with its own set of abilities and subclasses, providing ample opportunities for customization and experimentation. Whether you prefer a defensive tank or a stealthy ranged attacker, there’s a class to suit your style.
Combat in Coridden is fast-paced and exhilarating. Players can execute basic attacks, unleash special abilities, and utilize ranged attacks, all while seamlessly switching between forms. However, the game can become challenging, particularly in solo play, where enemy waves can overwhelm unprepared players.
While the combat is accessible to newcomers, seasoned players will find enough depth to keep them engaged. The game eases players into the mechanics, allowing them to learn and adapt over time. The balance between challenge and accessibility is commendable, making it enjoyable for both casual and hardcore gamers.
Coridden can be played solo or in co-op mode, which is where the game truly shines. Teaming up with friends not only enhances the fun but also makes tackling tougher bosses more manageable. The cooperative aspect adds a layer of strategy, as players can coordinate their abilities and transformations to overcome challenges together.
While Coridden boasts a vibrant art style, it doesn’t quite reach the visual heights of some of its more prominent competitors. The character designs and environments have charm, but certain elements feel dated or oversimplified.
The game’s art direction blends retro and futuristic elements, reminiscent of classic fantasy comics. However, the isometric camera can sometimes hinder visibility, making it difficult to navigate larger areas. The visual experience is generally enjoyable, but it could benefit from additional polish.
The sound design in Coridden is a highlight, with an atmospheric soundtrack that complements the gameplay. The voice acting, while present, is inconsistent, with some performances standing out more than others. The soundtrack captures the essence of the game, enhancing the immersion during both exploration and combat.
The narrative in Coridden is engaging, especially in its early stages. The story of the Dayal siblings and their quest to uncover the mysteries of their gauntlets is intriguing. However, as the game progresses, some players may find the plot becomes less compelling.
While the siblings have unique personalities, their dialogue options often fail to showcase these traits effectively. Important NPCs and side characters can feel less memorable, making it easy for players to overlook their significance in the story. This lack of depth can detract from the overall narrative experience.
Despite its narrative shortcomings, Coridden offers a wealth of side quests and lore that can enrich the gameplay experience. Players who take the time to explore will find hidden stories and secrets that add depth to the world of Aasha.
While Coridden is an enjoyable experience, it does suffer from some technical issues. Players have reported long loading times and occasional freezing, which can disrupt the flow of gameplay. These issues can be particularly noticeable on certain platforms, such as the Steam Deck.
The game’s performance can vary depending on the platform, with some players experiencing smoother experiences than others. While these technical hiccups may not be game-breaking, they are worth noting for potential players.
One of the strengths of Coridden is its replayability. The game features a variety of side quests, collectibles, and optional missions that encourage players to revisit the world of Aasha. The different character classes and shapeshifting abilities also provide ample opportunities for experimentation.
Players can engage in various side activities through a mission board in the main town, offering additional battles and challenges. This feature adds to the longevity of the game, ensuring that players have plenty to do even after completing the main story.
In conclusion, Coridden is a refreshing addition to the action RPG genre. Its unique shapeshifting mechanics, engaging combat, and vibrant world make it an enjoyable experience. While it does have its flaws, such as technical issues and narrative inconsistencies, the overall gameplay experience is compelling enough to warrant a recommendation.
