KAKU: Ancient Seal is an open-world, Zelda-like, Action-RPG with a cartoon Nickelodeon-style animation.
It is not fair to say Zelda-like, it would be like calling every 2d-platformer a Mario-like or Sonic-like. I have genuine things to say about KAKU: Ancient Seal and will do without any mention of Zelda.
A Cartoon Plot
In KAKU: Ancient Seal, you step into the role of a young child named Kaku, who starts off simply minding his own business. However, his life takes an unexpected and extraordinary turn when he stumbles upon an ancient prophecy that has remained hidden for centuries.
This prophecy reveals a daunting mission: Kaku must reunite the elemental souls, powerful entities that once formed the very foundations of the world. These souls were the pillars of balance and harmony, but something went terribly wrong long ago, leading to a catastrophic event that shattered the world and plunged it into chaos.
The plot of KAKU: Ancient Seal manages to do its job quite well but it would be remiss to say that this is the strong point of the game.
Let’s talk gameplay.
A Cartoon Game
Combat in the game is particularly satisfying. The standard combo inputs are easy to pick up but can be expanded as you unlock new abilities, allowing you to chain together longer more powerful attacks.
The variety of enemies you face, from smaller minions to massive bosses, keeps battles fresh and challenging.
Each enemy type has its own weaknesses, pushing you to experiment with different elemental bombs, attacks, and even new weapons.
This level of variety ensures that combat never feels repetitive, keeping you engaged throughout the game.
It’s easy to feel lost at the beginning with the skill tree but as you progress and start unlocking new skills, the game encourages you to experiment and adapt to your own playstyle.
Whether you prefer straightforward combat or a more tactical approach, Kaku: Ancient Seal lets you shape your journey to suit your preferences.
Beyond the combat system, the game excels in its traversal mechanics.
You’ll learn new abilities that make moving through the world both easy and enjoyable.
The simplicity of executing these abilities is one of the game’s strengths, allowing you to focus on exploration without getting bogged down in complex controls.
The last thing that comes to mind is the puzzles.
While I am not one to love puzzles in most games, the ones in this Action-RPG give that welcome break from the action, offering a chance to slow down and think strategically.
Think about it like being at a safe point in Resident Evil 4, adjusting items in your briefcase. A refreshing restart.
Solving them also rewards you with new gear and resources that further enhance Kaku’s abilities
Tak and the Power of Juju
Don’t know how many remember this show. It used to air on Nickelodeon about a decent set of years ago.
The reason I mention it is because the first time I laid eyes on this RPG, the first thought in my head was Tak and Power of Juju. I honestly thought the game might have been a tie-in. Then I remembered that THQ no longer exists. (No, THQ-Nordic does not count!)
Back to the topic:
The art style is nearly a copy and I am all for it. The whole vibe coming off this game is like a brand-new take on Tak and the Power of Juju. Even down to the moves and somewhat the story.
I am serious, go take a look. Watch an episode if you can find it. It’s great!
On It’s own Two Feet
KAKU: Ancient Seal is a delightful surprise that brings a nostalgic vibe with its Nickelodeon-style animation and engaging gameplay. While it may draw comparisons to other action RPGs, it stands on its own with a charming world, satisfying combat, and a unique blend of exploration and puzzle-solving.
Though the story might not be its strongest point, the gameplay more than makes up for it, offering a variety of challenges that keep you hooked from start to finish.
The game’s art style, reminiscent of nickelodeon’s Tak and the Power of Juju, adds a layer of whimsy that makes the experience feel fresh and familiar at the same time.
If you’re looking for a game that balances action with moments of thoughtful puzzle-solving, KAKU: Ancient Seal is well worth your time. It’s a journey that, much like its art style, feels like a warm, playful nod to the past while carving out its own space in the present.
