My initial encounter with the transformative impact of modding occurred while engaging with *Skyrim*.It’s no surprise that a game developed using the *Skyrim* engine and its assets—like *Enderal*—can evoke a similarly profound experience. However, *Enderal* transcends the label of a mere mod; it stands as a distinct game that merits recognition alongside *Skyrim*.Every aspect, from character development to musical composition, is crafted with originality, with only a shared aesthetic connecting the two.
While story-centric mods might not initially capture your interest, there are numerous compelling reasons to explore this free addition. Here’s an exploration of why *Enderal: Forgotten Stories* is absolutely deserving of your attention.
8 The Music
Ethereal and Off-Putting
*Enderal* features an incredibly unique soundtrack, venturing into unsettling musical territory rarely seen in games. The score is extraordinary, offering haunting melodies that evoke a sense of unease, surpassing even some renowned horror titles.
Each musical swell induces a feeling that something is fundamentally amiss—this is masterfully achieved through subtle dissonances and sudden mood shifts that could be described as Lovecraftian. The moment the piano begins to play, chills run down your spine, setting the tone for a world that feels intriguingly wrong, conveyed brilliantly through the music.
7 The Side Quests
Bethesda Can’t Even Do This
The side quests found in *Enderal* are exceptional, far eclipsing those seen in many traditional RPGs. Each quest presents intricately woven tales that often border on the surreal, but they are undoubtedly crafted with excellence, leaving an emotional impact after each completion.
For instance, a quest simply inviting you to an arena spirals into a deeper narrative. Rather than just a series of fights, you discover a shadowy organization planning a pilgrimage, guiding you to new and striking environments filled with compelling boss encounters and one of the most memorable climaxes I’ve encountered in gaming.
This singular quest exemplifies the depth and engagement that emerges when you explore the game’s world beyond the main storyline.
6 The Atmosphere
You Feel It
From the very start, *Enderal* establishes itself as a unique world, differing significantly from *Skyrim*.Although the scope may feel smaller, the game is brimming with distinctive locations that enhance the sense of adventure.
The dungeons surpass those in *Skyrim* in creativity and design, drawing you into an immersive experience that highlights its identity as its own remarkable title—often overlooked yet immensely rewarding.
5 The Companions
Up There With Bioware’s Best
Companions in *Enderal* elevate the gaming experience, particularly as you embody a blank slate character whose narrative is shaped by these supporting figures. One standout is Jespar, the first companion you encounter. While he may initially seem lacking in substance, a rich backstory unfolds, enticing players to delve deeper.
His narrative trajectory is marked by tragedy and exceptional storytelling, making him one of the more outstanding characters I’ve encountered—it’s merely one example of the depth available among your companions.
4 The City
An Elaborate and Intriguing Maze
Among the various settlements in *Enderal*, Ark stands out as a remarkable city to explore. Although you encounter it early on, the thrill lies in exploring it independently. The city is divided into multiple districts, each filled with diverse shops and intriguing details. However, the city’s underbelly reveals a derelict maze that is impressively intricate.
This atmospheric labyrinth, crafted by a single modder, is one of the finest RPG areas I have experienced, rich with engaging narrative threads, lore to uncover, and numerous side quests to embark upon.
3 The Characters
They Set The Stage
In addition to your companions, numerous characters you meet throughout the game contribute significantly to the complex and dark narrative. From enigmatic figures like the Aged Man to the Black Guardian, every character plays a vital role in delivering the story’s intricacies, challenging your perception of their motives.
The voice acting is outstanding, rivaling performances from top-tier productions, demonstrating that passion and opportunity can spotlight incredible talent in the industry. Tealor, a recurring leader figure, resonates with a captivating presence and intelligence that reflects the overarching mystery permeating the game.
2 The Battles
Buckle Up, This Fight Feels Real
The battles experienced in *Enderal* are a reinvention of combat compared to *Skyrim*.You will encounter creatively designed monsters and genuinely surprising encounters, including massive castle sieges filled with spellcasting and unique foes that might leave you feeling unsettled as you battle.
1 The Story
Among the Best RPGs Have to Offer
Though the plot bears some resemblance to *Mass Effect 3*, it quickly evolves into a compelling narrative that may catch you by surprise. The storyline revolves around an impending cataclysm, known as The Cleansing, and your quest to avert it by constructing a device.
As the narrative unfolds, it reveals twists and complexities that challenge your understanding of purpose and motivation throughout the game. The journey encompasses an eclectic array of locations, with particularly innovative sequences that prompt reflection on why the creator hasn’t been discovered by a major studio yet.
Reaching one of the multiple endings guarantees an emotional experience, unexpectedly eliciting feelings that you might not associate with gaming. The conclusion stands as a testament to storytelling—perhaps demonstrating to *BioWare* a more appropriate way to conclude *Mass Effect*.
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