Indie Games and Pixel Art

When you think of the current video games released in these last few years, you likely think about the stunning, almost life-like visuals, expansive worlds, and breathtaking reflections. Few would even think to call to mind what was once the norm in the video game world, the pixel art style combined with RPGmechanics. For such a style seems too archaic for the bigger game companies to even think about touching, unless it’s for a franchise like Pokémon.

The indie gaming world, however, never stopped using pixel art. This is likely because the cost of making a stunning visual game is more than the average indie developer can afford. That’s not to say the game quality is sacrificed, as popular video games like Undertale and Stardew Valley were made in that style. Besides, in my humble opinion, it’s not the art style that makes a game; it’s the intent, the storytelling, and most crucially, the passion behind it. 

Such passion, I dare say, is seen in the video game Life Eternal by StarCadets, also known as Ronove, published by Project Enos . So much so that a prequel novella was made sometime after its release, called Forevermore. I highly encourage you to check out, either before or after playing the game.

The Short Somber Tale

One would think that a game no more than three hours in length couldn’t possibly have a complex tale, and sometimes, you’d be correct. The premise itself is simple: a Necromancer wakes up and finds his Lord has been slain. He must collect the ingredients required to resurrect him. The truth, though, is much darker. To find it, you must search for the letters hidden throughout the forest and the castle.

Interpretative Storytelling

Of course, the letters wouldn’t just spell out the lore for you. Where would the fun be in that? They only give hints of a past experienced by the Necromancer that he himself can’t remember. This is the type of storytelling I love most of all, because it leaves the past up to interpretation. A clever strategy that encourages discussions between the players, ensuring the game will be remembered.

Where, Oh Where Art Thou Letters?

So, how good are your eyes? Can you catch the vague atmospheric clues that suggest a letter is nearby? If not, then I would highly suggest that you take the click-on-everything strategy. Otherwise, you might be forced to replay the game more than required to get both endings. The clues that something is near are question marks that have the habit of not appearing until you’re on the target.

Though what good is a clue if you don’t know it’s a clue? A question mark could mean anything from a letter to a skeleton, and these are often easy to overlook.

The Beautiful Expressive Portraits 

At least you get to look at this handsome man without a proper name while you search. Who not only has very detailed clothes and facial features, rarely seen in portraits in pixel-art-style games, but also expressions that change based on the current scene. This ranges from the horror of his own deeds to contentment as he gazes at the sun flickering through the windows. These factors ensure that you get attached to the character and desperately wish for a good end for him.

Sweet, Sweet Accessibility

Far too many games are still catching up in terms of putting accessibility features in their titles. Though Life Eternal is hardly perfect in that regard, the features they have contribute to players’ comfort. The ability to adjust the font and speed to your preference is more than most games offer. 

Final Thoughts

The game Life Eternal is the definition of getting more than what you paid for. Despite being free, the art style is expressive, and the story is engaging. Combined, it’s as one of the games you’ll want to return to now and again, perhaps during a lazy afternoon. Now time to read the novella, while attempting to ignore the dread that comes with knowing how it all ends.