Creatures of Ava is a wholesome title that may not grab you at first. Its art style takes some getting used to and its basic quests and side missions never test you. However, once you become accustomed to its looks and you fall for its charms, you’ll become emotionally connected with the fantasy story.
This creature rescue adventure was developed by Inverge Studios and published by 11 bit studios. Moreover, it is a single-player, third-person experience. Unlike many of its peers, it focuses on healing, friendship, and love. Thankfully, fighting and violence take a backward seat and this creates a pleasant and calming atmosphere.
Creatures of Ava tells an amusing and touching story.
The developer wastes no time in chucking you in at the deep end. From the off, you are surrounded by interesting creatures and lore-filled artefacts. Additionally, there is a clan of untrusting but fun aliens to interact with. This blend of outlandish sci-fi gives you no time to breathe. However, the exceptional narrative from Rhianna Pratchett delivers a captivating and magical plot that delivers on many levels.
You play the role of Vic, a 22-year-old nature adventurer. This would-be hero is partnered with a serious but loving scientist called Tabitha. The pair have been sent to Ava on a special but challenging mission. An infection known as “The Withering” is changing the planet. This cruel disease is poisoning the plants and changing the animals. Yet, the heroes must work with the Naam to eliminate the threat and save every creature of the titular planet.
Simple gameplay.
Open-world adventures are usually giant collectathons filled with challenging and rewarding action. Creatures of Ava bucks this trend as many of the linear quests are easy to complete. Moreover, the straightforward fetch missions and photography elements won’t test you.
This isn’t a complaint as it is the simplicity that sets it apart from its competitors. What’s more, the need to use robots and music to save each creature was fascinating. The local creatures fear you and it isn’t until you play their song that rapport can be built. Once you have their trust, they will follow you like a sheep with a shepherd.
As you remove the animals or you complete quests you earn XP. This can be put to good use as a small skill tree can be unlocked. This element was essential as your magical staff casts stronger spells. Moreover, breaking “the Withering” becomes easier as your magic connects with multiple victims.
Creatures of Ava is a colour explosion.
Though the action may be underwhelming, visually, it is a colour explosion. Creatures of Ava uses its fantasy theme to its fullest. The bizarre creatures come in all shapes and sizes. Additionally, the trees and plants have a glorious out-of-this-world edge. Though the world isn’t massive, each key location offers enough variety. This blend of aliens and individual environments made every step an exciting experience.
Unfortunately, though it is vibrant and eye-catching, it has its problems. Screen tears, misplaced colours, and odd highlighting tarnish the end product. What’s more, I lost my tamed creatures through the gaming world repeatedly. This lack of finesse was disappointing and I hoped for better.
The audio is a mixed bag as well. The soundtrack is wholesome and upbeat. Furthermore, it has some dramatic moments to complement the combat encounters. This was great as it enhanced the touching story and the fantasy theme. Sadly, though, the voice-over work was hit and miss. When it included the acting, it was great and worked exceptionally well. Yet, some cutscenes had no acting and this was strange. The game would have been better had every scene been supported.
Comfortable controls.
The developer has made Creatures of Ava a user-friendly experience. Though the bugs undermine the exceptional controls, it is easy to master. Furthermore, the UI is streamlined and this allows you to focus on the excellent story and rescuing each creature.
This isn’t a particularly long game. Even when you consider each region and the long list of animals to save, there isn’t a lot to it. However, there are meditation points to find, wind charms to capture, and photos to take. What’s more, there are plenty of side quests to tackle if you wish. As such, there is enough to keep you busy.
Creatures of Ava is limited but fun.
Creatures of Ava doesn’t excel as an adventure game. Instead, it is its fantasy story and charming nature that capture my attention. I loved the weird creatures and the lush environments. Moreover, the wholesome plot is funny and touching. Accordingly, I enjoyed it and I recommend buying it here! Can you remove the infection and save the day? Help the Naam, rescue the creatures, and become a hero.
