“Mortal Shell,” released on August 18, 2020, is a gripping and challenging action-RPG that plunges players into a world of desolation, testing their sanity and resilience against ruthless adversaries. Developed by the collaboration of Playstack and Cold Symmetry, this game immerses players in a shattered reality where the remnants of humanity decay, and survival demands unparalleled awareness, precision, and instincts.
As the player awakens in the game, they find themselves as an empty vessel, tasked with fulfilling the mysterious bidding of the enigmatic “Dark Father.” The journey unfolds in a landscape marked by decay, with the player traversing a tattered world to locate hidden sanctums of devout followers. These sanctums, Mortal Shell’s most sacred grounds, present formidable challenges in the form of adversaries and the sacred glands that need to be harvested. Amidst the desolation, the player is not entirely alone, as the remnants of lost warriors scatter across the land, offering unique abilities and weapon knowledge when inhabited.
The narrative raises questions about the ultimate goal of the Dark Father, adding a layer of mystery to the immersive storyline. The player is prompted to question the purpose behind their quest and the motives driving the dark forces they serve.
The game introduces a unique mechanic involving the discovery of various “Shells” that cater to different playstyles. These Shells, the remains of defeated warriors, can be awakened and inhabited, providing diverse combat forms and unlocking unique skills and weapon upgrades. This feature allows players to tailor their experience and master different combat styles.
Combat in Mortal Shell is a strategic and deliberate affair, emphasizing the importance of superior awareness, precision, and instincts. Players must carefully choose when to commit their sword strikes, calculating parries to unleash devastating counterblows. The non-linear campaign further enhances the gaming experience, allowing players to forge their own path across marsh-infested lowlands, colossal cathedrals of obsidian rock, and ancient crypts frozen into mountain crests.
The upgrade system in Mortal Shell adds depth to the gameplay, with a focus on the connection between the player and each Mortal Shell. As this connection strengthens, players can craft unique upgrades, sharpen their blades with acid, and delve into dark arcane abilities that imbue attacks with supernatural devastation.
The journey is not without its challenges, as players encounter haunting foes devoted to inscrutable gods. The game introduces a diverse array of creatures, both pitiable and grotesque, urging players to muster their courage and face them head-on.
What sets Mortal Shell apart is the caliber of its development team, comprised of AAA veterans with a profound passion for the soulslike genre. The attention to detail, strategic combat, non-linear storytelling, and deep upgrade paths make Mortal Shell a standout title in the world of video games. Available on platforms such as Windows PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Xbox Series, Mortal Shell falls within the indie RPG genre, offering an unparalleled gaming experience for enthusiasts seeking a challenging and immersive adventure.”