1. Introduction
Game Title: Raji: An Ancient Epic
Release Date: October 16, 2020
Genre: Isometric Linear Fantasy Action-Adventure
Playtime: 5-6 hours
Overview:
Raji: An Ancient Epic is a linear level-based action-adventure game set in the mythical world of ancient Indian mythology. Combining isometric hack-and-slash combat and platforming elements, players take on the role of Raji, a young woman from ancient India, on a journey to rescue her brother from demons.
2. Gameplay
Core Mechanics:
Platforming and Parkour:
About 50% of Raji: An Ancient Epic revolves around platforming and parkour mechanics. This section feels closer to a 3D platforming version of Prince of Persia®: The Sands of Time rather than something like Celeste. Players must guide Raji as she leaps between cliffs, climbs pillars, jumps across them, scales ledges, runs along walls, and even performs wall jumps. The overall motion feels fluid and engaging.
Isometric Hack-and-Slash Combat:
Raji wields a trident, bow, and sword-and-shield, each of which can be infused with one of three elemental powers: lightning, fire, and ice. Rather than actively casting spells, the game ties magical effects to weapons. Players allocate skill points to specific weapon-magic combinations, which then trigger their effects randomly during combat, adding unpredictability to encounters.
Mini-Puzzles:
The game introduces two types of mini-puzzles: rotating a three-tiered tree trunk adorned with sinister faces to align them correctly and aligning intricate mandala patterns. These puzzles are straightforward, offering a relaxed and enjoyable break from other gameplay elements.
Objectives and Goals:
The game follows a linear, single-path level design with six chapters and no side quests. The player's primary objective is to help Raji rescue her brother Golu, who has been abducted by the demon Mahabalasura. Along the way, Raji traverses diverse environments, solves puzzles, and ultimately faces off against bosses.
Progression and Rewards:
By exploring hidden areas, players can collect Favor Orbs to enhance the branch skills of the three elemental powers: lightning, fire, and ice. Each power has three branch skills, with each skill upgradeable up to three times. Higher skill levels increase the likelihood of triggering their effects.
Innovative Features:
The game uses Tholpavakoothu (traditional Indian shadow puppetry) animations for storytelling, narrated by the gods Durga and Vishnu. This unique presentation method is particularly memorable and adds a layer of cultural richness to the narrative.
3. Story and Worldbuilding
Story Synopsis:
The story follows Raji as she embarks on an epic journey to rescue her brother Golu, who has been abducted by demons. Guided by the goddess Durga and the deity Vishnu, who provide her with divine weapons, Raji ultimately confronts the demon lord Mahabalasura in a climactic battle.
Characters and Narrative Depth:
Raji is the central character, supported by other significant figures such as Golu, Mahabalasura, Durga, and Vishnu. While the plot highlights Raji's love for her brother and the gods' admiration for her bravery, character development feels somewhat shallow, and the tragic ending may leave players feeling unsatisfied.
Worldbuilding:
The game is set in a mythical ancient Indian world, taking players through richly detailed locations such as temple ruins, The Fortress of Jaidhar, Hiranya Nagari, and the Land of the Mystics. Through murals and narration, players gain deeper insight into Indian mythology, immersing them in this unique and mysterious setting.
4. Art Style
Visual Style:
The game presents two distinct visual approaches: whimsical, fairy-tale-inspired art for regular gameplay, infused with Indian cultural motifs, and Tholpavakoothu shadow-puppetry animations for key story moments, creating a striking contrast.
Consistency in Design:
From environments to character designs, the art direction maintains a cohesive Indian aesthetic, faithfully recreating the artistic essence of ancient India.
Attention to Detail:
For a mid-tier indie game, Raji: An Ancient Epic delivers exceptional detail in its environments. From temple ruins adorned with sculptures to the lotus-filled waters of Hiranya Nagari and the massive gears in the background, every element enhances the immersion and realism of the world.
Visual Impact:
The game's environments are breathtakingly grand, with occasional wide shots emphasizing Raji's smallness. Each chapter introduces fresh and unique visuals, leaving a lasting impression.
5. Graphics and Sound
Graphics:
The environment models are detailed, and the isometric perspective cleverly masks any lack of high-resolution textures. However, character and enemy models appear somewhat simplistic compared to the stunning backdrops.
Sound Design and Music:
The background score is rich with Indian influences, leaving a lasting impression. However, the sound effects for attacks and enemy hits feel underwhelming, which slightly diminishes the combat experience.
Technical Issues:
Although the game supports ray tracing, the difference in visual quality with it enabled is not very noticeable.
6. Controls and UI
Ease of Controls:
Platforming and combat controls demand precise timing, as any deviation can lead to failure. For instance, heavy attacks in combat cannot be canceled, leaving Raji vulnerable to interruptions.
UI Design:
The UI focuses on immersion but sacrifices practicality. For example, Raji's health is displayed as petals around her character, which can be hard to track during intense combat. Similarly, the skill gauge indicators are not intuitive enough.
7. Difficulty and Challenge
Difficulty Level:
While platforming sections are moderately challenging, combat is noticeably harder due to high enemy attack frequency and overwhelming numbers, leaving little room for respite.
Challenge Factor:
With a variety of enemy types and attack patterns, the game offers ample challenges for players who enjoy tougher gameplay.
Learning Curve:
The first chapter provides a thorough tutorial, making the game mechanics easy to grasp.
8. Innovations and Drawbacks
Innovative Elements:
The game modernizes classic gameplay elements from Prince of Persia®: The Sands of Time while using Indian Tholpavakoothu animation to narrate key story moments, offering a refreshing twist.
Drawbacks:
Combat feels lackluster, and controller support is suboptimal. The flying disc weapon, Chakra, is almost unusable with a controller.
9. Conclusion and Rating
Overall Verdict:
Raji: An Ancient Epic is a visually stunning and culturally distinctive isometric linear action game with subpar combat mechanics. If you can overlook its shortcomings in combat, the game's detailed environments and unique Indian mythology-inspired style promise an unforgettable adventure.
Recommendation:
Ideal for players seeking a visually refreshing experience, interested in exotic themes, and preferring linear adventure games. For the best experience, opt for the story mode if you prioritize visuals over gameplay depth.
Rating: 6/10