Drova is a new action RPG made with Pixel art that Deck 13 and Just2D were kind enough to send me review copies of for both Steam and Xbox. Normally I don’t do this but I’m glad I did on this one because there are a few branching paths so to speak where you can side with one faction or another and it does change how the game plays out a bit. I won’t warn you about where this is because the game makes it obvious and it would spoil some story for you and I avoid that where I can.
What I will do is point out differences in the versions of the game. For example graphically I didn’t see any real difference between an average run of the mil computer and my Series S. My friend’s higher end computer seemed to get a more steady frame rate but not enough to choose that over my Series S,and you will definitely want to play this game with a controller.
The game play is also identical with no difference in story. The opening sequence of following druids into the woods, getting lost in fog and waking up alone in Drova doesn’t change. The first person you meet will teach you a few things and you will get a warning about being careful. Take this warning very seriously. I won’t help you avoid the mistake I made but I will tell you even in Drova we should all choose the damn bear.
If there is one place this game feels a little flat to me it’s the combat. On PC or Xbox it just felt stiff to me and hard for the wrong reasons. And remember I consider Bloodborne one of the all time best games, I don’t mind hard. But half the time I felt like dodging was just a random activity. And each weapon felt similar with a slightly different speed.
That’s a minor complaint however when comparing it to the world itself,which is a pretty substantial size and it feels like a living breathing world. This faction hates that faction, some people just want to live in a bar or to run their farms. Monsters will defend their territory against other monsters. I once watched flies fight frogs for no reason other than to see who won.
The game isn’t perfect,and if you prefer PC over Xbox or Xbox over PC pick your poison because the game plays very well either way. The game won’t be for everyone,but it is a solid 7/10 and I can definitely see this being one of those games that attracts a large following for years to come. Best wishes and may the gaming gods bring you glory.
Savior Gaming 