The definition of a sleeper hit.
Every once in a while a game comes along that stands out from the pack and brings a unique feel to a genre. Indivisible is a mix of Metroid-inspired exploration and action-oriented turn-based RPG combat that somehow meshes perfectly together. Developed by the same team that brought us Skullgirls, Lab Zero has crafted an experience that is not only beautiful to look at, but also extremely entertaining to play. It has been a longtime coming. The game was announced back in 2015 and its crowdfunding campaign was successful, but it took a while to finally get completed. It seems it was all worth the wait though.
Indivisible follows the story of Ajna, a young girl who sets out to get revenge on the people that destroyed her village and murdered her father. The plot is pretty straightforward, but makes up for its lack of innovation with interesting characters. Everything in Indivisible is voice acted and impressively so. Some of the characters are just a joy to chat with. Interestingly, the way the party system works is that all Ajna’s companions live inside her head. At save points I could travel there to chat or purchase upgrades. Sure it is weird, but that is what makes it fun.
MSRP: $39.99
Platforms: XB1 (reviewed), PS4, Switch, PC
Price I’d Pay: $39.99
Game play is broken up into two main facets. The exploration aspect feels like Metroid-lite. Ajna will obtain new abilities as the game progresses, giving her a chance to traverse to new areas and find new secrets. The map is broken down as expected. One small touch that I loved was being able to tilt the analog stick up to get a quick glance of the surrounding area. A lot of small things like this really help Indivisible stand out. Another example is when the game initially loads, the title screen is Ajna where I left off waiting to get back to her adventure. Pressing start immediately gives me control. It’s a tiny detail, but one that I love.
Combat is where this game really shines though. While it is technically turn-based it implements an active-time system that really keeps players engaged. Each party member is assigned a face button on the controller. This button activates their attacks as well as an active block system that can be used to negate damage. Attacks can be altered by pressing a direction on the analog stick. Some characters also have specific abilities such as healing and charging moves. There is always something to keep track of, and it can be overwhelming early on. It is no shock that a developer that spent years honing their fighting game would opt for this kind of precision-based combat in their RPG.
Enemies will also change up as the game progresses. Some have a barrier that must be broken by a specific combo of moves. Attacks can also be at varying ranges, meaning a higher attack might miss a lower enemy and vice versa. While it seems simple on the surface, the combat itself is extremely deep and satisfying. Every battle was intense. The blocking mechanic also comes with a button that blocks for every character. This comes with a caveat though. Using it drains the special meter, which is imperative for performing specials or reviving teammates. The risk/reward system is great and I had a fantastic time learning the intricacies of this system.
The campaign is around 25 hours and I enjoyed it from start to finish. If I had to lobby a complaint it comes from the exploration side of things. The game does a poor job of telegraphing where the player should be headed at times. Not every obvious path is laid out, and the backtracking becomes annoying after a while. It slows down the pace of an otherwise outstanding adventure. Thankfully the combat keeps things fresh through most of it.
Visually this is a stunning example of animation. Characters simply pop off the screen with outlandish features and design. The worlds are brightly animated and everything around them just screams of polish. This is a screenshot-worthy game. The dialogue as I mentioned is also well done and the music sets the mood. Lab Zero is known for their presentation and Indivisible does not disappoint.
I loved this game when I first played the demo a year ago. I am glad players can finally get their hands on it, and truly this is not a game to be missed. It combines two genres perfectly and ends up creating the surprise hit of the year. It will be on my mind when game of the year rolls around and I recommend everyone giving it a look. I know the game world is swamped with releases this year, but this is one experience you do not want to miss.
Review copy of game provided by publisher.
