Chants of Sennaar is a stunning title. This linguistic affair will capture your imagination and blow you away with its touching aesthetic. Moreover, it parodies real life. Therefore, the action is uncomfortable, yet reassuring. As such, it is easy to lose yourself in this harsh example of ignorance and reconciliation.
This linguistic puzzle title was developed by Rundisc and published by Focus Entertainment. Moreover, the story highlights how issues between cultures are usually skin-deep. As such, you’ll adore every unique civilisation and the ability to bring them together through conversation and kind gestures.
Chants of Sennaar tells a wonderful story.
Chants of Sennaar proves that a great story doesn’t need complex layers. Instead, this focuses on basic linguistic skills and everyday problems. Moreover, as the plot progresses, you learn that minor gripes can be resolved as long as you are willing to work together. This basic concept should have been underwhelming. However, I adored how it was integrated into the setting and the variety of cultures you encounter.
A tower that houses multiple civilisations looms in the distance. However, these people do not work together, nor do they wish to resolve their differences. Yet, legend has it that an unnamed hero will reconcile the cultures and bring harmony to their home. You play the part of this hero as you explore each level and break down unnecessary barriers.
Stunning puzzles.
Where Chants of Sennaar excels is its combination of puzzles and storytelling. I adored the drip-fed lore, the amazing problems, and the incredible characters. Every level of the tower is filled with life, worries, and obstacles. Furthermore, it is your responsibility to talk to every citizen to uncover the mystery behind each language.
As you talk to each individual, you’ll piece together the unknown nature of each verse. Every symbol you see corresponds to a word, and it is your responsibility to work out the meaning of each one. As you complete each page, the game progresses at a gentle pace. Moreover, the more you explore, the greater your understanding of each culture becomes.
What I loved about each problem was the ability to solve them without delving into every nook and cranny. If you were able to identify the meaning of each symbol, you could resolve the issue and move on. However, you were not penalised for taking your time and this allows you to absorb every culture.
Stealth mechanics were a poor choice.
I adored nearly every element of Chants of Sennaar. However, the inclusion of stealth mechanics was a poor choice. Luckily, though, these moments are few and far between, and this was a good thing. Disappointingly, every time I had to hide in the shadows or sneak between walls was tedious. Furthermore, if you are caught, you’ll sigh as you have to restart that portion of the game. Alongside this, this mechanic isn’t as subtle or captivating as the other layers. Consequently, you go through the motions without much thought or care.
Chants of Sennaar looks fantastic.
Exploring every layer of the tower was fascinating. Thanks to the varied backdrops and the interesting characters, I never tired of what I saw. Additionally, the excellent UI and the wonderful puzzles were eye-catching and easy to look at. On top of this, I loved the unique languages on offer and the subtle differences between each one. Subsequently, each level delivered fresh material that kept you coming back for more.
The hostile nature of the environment and the standoffish emotions of the citizens are captured in the atmospheric audio. The varied soundtrack is brilliant to listen to. Whether it is a folksy upbeat song or an aggressive and sinister tune, it helps to create a captivating atmosphere. Alongside this, the sound effects were underwhelming but interesting.
Easy to pick up and play.
The idea of playing a linguistic title could be tough to swallow. However, the easy-to-understand tutorial is straightforward and simple to follow. Consequently, once you understand the basics, the only thing to do is explore the world and help the locals.
Each layer of the tower is full of life and people to interact with. Accordingly, there is plenty to see and do. Therefore, Chants of Sennar will keep you busy if you want to uncover every aspect. However, you can rush through if you don’t want to hang about. Either way, there is plenty of replay value and longevity.
Chants of Sennaar blew me away.
Chants of Sennaar took me by surprise. Its incredible storytelling and wonderful setting blew me away. Furthermore, I loved its aesthetic and easy-to-understand concepts. Alongside this, you can do as much or as little as you wish. Therefore, you’ll never feel overwhelmed as you try to break down each new language. Subsequently, this is a gem of an indie title and one that you don’t want to miss. Consequently, I recommend that you buy it here! Can you reconcile the people of the tower? Solve the problems, study each language, and fulfil your destiny.
