DEAD AGE for Xbox One brings a promising concept to the table - surviving a zombie outbreak with turn-based combat and permanent death, all while trying to manage a group of survivors, crafting materials, and making tough decisions. On paper, it sounds like a retro gamer's dream, reminiscent of classic titles with its roguelite elements and non-linear gameplay akin to FTL.
However, it pains me to say that DEAD AGE fails to live up to its potential. While the concept is intriguing, the execution leaves a lot to be desired. The first issue that stands out is the game's lackluster visuals. As a seasoned retro gaming enthusiast, I appreciate the charm of pixelated graphics, but in this case, it feels more lazy than intentional.
The combat, which draws inspiration from Final Fantasy, falls flat. The turn-based mechanics lack depth and strategy, resulting in battles that quickly become repetitive and uninspiring. There's a frustrating lack of variety in enemy types, further dampening the overall experience. For a game that promises exciting zombie encounters, I was left sorely disappointed.
Managing the group of survivors should be a key aspect of the game, but unfortunately, it feels like a missed opportunity. The decision-making process lacks complexity and consequences, leading to a feeling of detachment from the characters and their fates. Crafting materials, another potentially fascinating feature, also falls short. The crafting system feels shallow and underutilized, failing to offer the depth that would have made it engaging for players.
One of the few redeeming qualities of DEAD AGE lies in its non-linear nature. The ability to shape the story through choices offers a sense of freedom, reminiscent of classic retro games. However, this positive aspect isn't enough to salvage the experience.
In terms of nostalgia, DEAD AGE draws inspiration from various classic games, but it never quite captures the magic of any one title. The result feels like a hodgepodge of retro elements without a cohesive vision or direction.
Overall, DEAD AGE for Xbox One falls short of its potential as a retro-inspired zombie survival game. While it attempts to blend charming visuals, turn-based combat, survivor management, and decision-making, the execution lacks depth and fails to capture the essence of classic titles. With underwhelming visuals, uninspired combat, and missed opportunities in gameplay mechanics, it's hard to recommend this game to even the most ardent of retro gaming enthusiasts.
