Loading into ‘Indika’ and seeing the Unreal Engine title flash up, I know I am in for something special. Developer, Odd Meter, immediately sets the tone with a nod to the 1980s gaming era in the opening scene. It’s a nostalgic blast from the past, tapping into the current trend of retro vibes that seem to be permeating the gaming industry lately. Once past the introductory sequence, Indika thrusts you headfirst into a meticulously crafted 19th-century frozen Russia. The deliberate choice to keep the world somewhat bland only serves to accentuate its breathtaking beauty.

You play as a young nun, Indika, who appears like a normal young girl from the outside but is in a constant battle with demons in her head that continue to grow stronger over time as she delves further into catholicism. In this third-person perspective adventure, the world pulses with life as NPCs engage in their own conversations offering glimpses of wisdom and experience.

Each interaction, whether fleeting or profound, serves as a thread weaving into the tapestry of Indika’s journey. But amidst the chaos of the city, there lies a deeper challenge: puzzles woven seamlessly into the fabric of the narrative. The cinematic cutscenes are stunning and use perspective and focus in their narrative helping you get lost in Indika’s head as she continues her journey.

There is no tutorial; you find yourself adrift, guided only by a small, unassuming white rectangle on your screen. It’s a deliberate initiation into the vast world awaiting beyond the sisterhood’s gates. As you follow this elusive guide, you’re thrust into a realm teeming with mysteries and challenges, your first taste of the adventures that lie ahead – even if you have to fill up 5 empty buckets of water … you will see! The skill and levelling-up system seems like something from “Super Mario Brothers” the look and sounds, which really confuses me how it fits in and had no real impact on the game at that start.

Indika uses a pray-based system to lessen the noises of the Devil in her head and the landscapes in front of her, helping her to look at challenges and puzzles within the game in different lights. It’s a unique ability, that further delves the player into her religious struggle inside Indika’s mind and fits the game’s theme perfectly.

Despite the initial impression of blandness, the graphics of this game transcend expectations, leaving players in awe of its beauty. Set against the backdrop of Russia’s landscapes, the developers have masterfully pushed the boundaries of visual immersion, every detail is meticulously crafted, inviting players to lose themselves in the breathtaking scenery.

The architecture, reminiscent of Russia’s rich cultural heritage, stands as a testament to the developers’ dedication to authenticity. The cut scenes are not just moments of passive observation but pivotal junctures that propel the story forward, keeping you eagerly engaged at every turn.

If you’re a connoisseur of adventure games, relishing in the delights of unravelling puzzles, then this game is an absolute must-play. From the moment you immerse yourself in its world, you’re greeted by a symphony of visual and auditory splendour that sets the stage for an unforgettable journey. The meticulously crafted landscapes brought to life with stunning graphics and immersive sound design, serve as the canvas upon which your adventure unfolds. But it’s not just about the aesthetics; the narrative woven throughout is equally captivating. As you guide Indika through his trials and triumphs, you’ll find yourself drawn deeper into a story rich with intrigue and emotion.

In every aspect, from its gameplay mechanics to its storytelling prowess, this game excels. It’s a testament to the dedication and vision of its developers, Odd Meter. From top to bottom, this title has firmly established itself as a standout within its genre. It’s not just a game; it’s an experience, one that will undoubtedly leave its mark as it did on me.

Written by: Mikey B