The gaming industry has treated us to some incredible franchises over the year. However, are there any that oozes charm and character like Oddworld? Abe is a much-loved hero that has undertaken some weird and wonderful adventures. Consequently, when I heard that Oddworld: Soulstorm Enhanced Edition was coming to Xbox Series X/S, I was chuffed.
Developed and published by Oddworld Inhabitants, Inc., this is a story-rich adventure title. What’s more, it incorporates some classic platforming tropes, and it tests you with plenty of wicked puzzles. Furthermore, it is undeniably moreish and has oodles of replay value.
This latest instalment can be enjoyed as a standalone experience. Yet, it is much better if you understand the bizarre Oddworld lore. Consequently, I’d recommend delving into each previous game before undertaking this incredible story.
Oddworld: Soulstorm Enhanced Edition tells an excellent tale.
Oddworld: Soulstorm Enhanced Edition continues on from its predecessor. As such, the action begins with Abe trying to find his voice. Moreover, 300 ex-slaves (Mudokens) are chanting Abe’s name. Why? Well, they are celebrating the destruction of RuptureFarms and their newfound freedom. However, the party is unfortunately cut short when the group discovers a new threat.
With danger in the air, Abe must undertake another stomach-churning adventure. This time, he’ll discover the truth and abolish the lies that have brainwashed his people. By crafting tools and finding items, he must tackle foes or sneak into the shadows. Whatever you decide, you’ll enjoy up to 4 unique endings and an array of unforgettable characters.
Classic platforming that’s executed perfectly.
The combination of old-school platforming and Abe’s ability to chant and possess others rarely gets old. Moreover, if you chuck the excellent crafting mechanics into the mix, you get a wonderful blend of puzzle and platforming elements. On top of this, the action is wonderfully punctuated by phenomenal cinematic. Now, this wouldn’t normally be so key, but the story is brilliantly interlaced with every other element of the gameplay.
Alongside this, it has retained much of the original charm as you test your chanting and possession powers. These elements were incredible, especially as you navigated each world while carving paths to explore. Furthermore, the inclusion of collectables and plenty of leaderboards kept you coming back for more. What’s more, you are tasked with saving as many Mudokens as possible. Consequently, you’ll want to explore different avenues and test out unique solutions to see what works.
Oddworld: Soulstorm Enhanced Edition is a thing of beauty.
It was easy to love this game, especially if you adore the genre. However, no matter your thoughts on platformers, you must admire the artistry and cinematic. Subsequently, Oddworld: Soulstorm Enhanced Edition is a handsome-looking title with some truly breathtaking cutscenes. Furthermore, the level design is interesting and striking and the colour palette is out of this world. In short, it blew my mind.
The franchise may be 30-odd years old, yet it hasn’t lost its sense of humour. Abe may be a strange little creature, but he is witty and sharp and is guaranteed to make you chuckle. Moreover, the excellent soundtrack and cracking sound effects complete the package. As such, the audio brilliantly complements the visuals, and the action is atmospheric and rich as a result.
Jump Abe, jump!
I didn’t want to find fault, but Oddworld: Soulstorm Enhanced Edition has some problematic controls. Accordingly, Abe struggles to clamber up and down platforms, and this was frustrating. When a genre focuses on accuracy and usability, it disappoints even the hardiest of fans when things go wrong. Therefore, it would have been better if the developer had tidied up this issue before releasing it on the Xbox Series X/S.
Rarely have I experienced a fun and charming title that draws you back in repeatedly. However, I couldn’t get enough of each 20-hour playthrough. With medals to aim for, Mudokens to save, and alternative endings to enjoy, you’ll love every minute. Furthermore, the cinematic is truly spectacular, and the dialogue is hilarious.
Oddworld: Soulstorm Enhanced Edition is a must-play title.
There are some phenomenal platforming experiences, but Oddworld: Soulstorm Enhanced Edition is one of the best. By utilising strong fundamentals and delivering a fascinating world to explore, you’ll be mesmerised from the off. On top of this, the action is addictive, stunning, and amusing. Moreover, aesthetically, it excels at every level. Accordingly, I adored it and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you discover the truth and become the leader you should be? Use your powers, overcome the obstacles, and save your people any way you can.
