Skald: Against the Black Priory is a bold throwback to the golden age of home computing RPGs. With its Commodore 64 aesthetic, it aims to recreate the atmosphere and experience of early role-playing adventures. However, its self-imposed restrictions and adherence to tradition raise questions about its relevance in a genre that has flourished with innovation in recent years.
The game’s narrative begins with a shipwreck and a quest to find Embla, a missing aristocrat’s daughter, amidst eerie and mysterious occurrences on the Outer Isles. Skald’s commitment to visual and auditory styles reminiscent of the 8-bit era is commendable, as it heightens the game’s eerie and unsettling atmosphere. The garish colors and pixel art, coupled with a pulsating soundtrack, create a vivid and immersive experience.
One of Skald’s strongest points is its ability to use its visual and audio stylings to evoke a sense of unease and dread. The vibrant 8-bit palette complements the caricature-like character designs, while the soundtrack grates against your nerves in a mesmerizing way. The pixel art, pressed against the inky black background, oozes with personality, making even the scenes of devastation in towns like Horryn stand out.
While the Lovecraftian elements contribute to the game’s dramatic tension, they may feel stale compared to the more innovative narratives found in contemporary games. However, Skald’s lore interweaves these tropes into something more intriguing, making the overall story compelling despite the familiarity of certain elements.
Character development is somewhat surface-level, with each companion serving a specific role rather than developing into complex personalities. This simplicity aligns with the traditional RPG formula, but it may limit emotional investment in the characters.
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