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Released initially on iOS in November 2013, Oceanhorn: Monster of Uncharted Seas is an action-adventure RPG with puzzle elements that immediately draws comparisons to the legendary The Legend of Zelda series, particularly Wind Waker. Players take on the role of a young boy searching for the monstrous Oceanhorn while simultaneously seeking his missing father, who previously faced the same creature. This familiar narrative setup, coupled with the game’s reminiscent gameplay, resonated well with iOS players. But does this charming adventure hold up on PC after its March 17th, 2015 release? Let’s dive in and find out.

A Gentle Escape

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If you’re seeking respite from intense, hardcore gaming experiences, Oceanhorn: Monster of Uncharted Seas provides a tranquil alternative. The combat is forgiving, requiring no masterful button-mashing skills. The vibrant, cartoonish graphics create a charming world ripe for exploration, complemented by a soothing soundtrack. Oceanhorn offers a relaxing experience, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Exploring a Colorful World

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The world of Oceanhorn is comprised of a variety of islands, each with its own distinct characteristics to discover. These islands are beautifully rendered with bright, appealing graphics. Cleverly placed treasure chests encourage thorough exploration, adding a rewarding layer to the gameplay.

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The game’s soundtrack further enhances the experience with its gentle melodies. While the voice acting could be more polished, it doesn’t detract significantly from the overall enjoyment.

Lack of Challenge

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Designed with a casual approach, Oceanhorn is accessible to a wide range of players. However, this ease of play may disappoint those seeking a more demanding experience. Combat is straightforward, allowing players to approach enemies with a shield, unleash quick attacks, and utilize magic from a safe distance. The generous dodge mechanic and quick stamina regeneration further contribute to the game’s low difficulty. While each island offers unique elements, their small size and simple layouts might not satisfy players craving extensive exploration.

Missing a Unique Identity

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While Oceanhorn offers a pleasant experience, it doesn’t leave a lasting impression. From the narrative to the gameplay and art style, the game evokes a sense of familiarity, lacking distinctive features that set it apart. This doesn’t diminish the game’s inherent value but may contribute to its being quickly forgotten amidst a sea of other gaming experiences.

Conclusion

Oceanhorn: Monster of Uncharted Seas provides a charming and relaxing adventure, ideal for players seeking a break from more demanding titles. Its vibrant world, enjoyable soundtrack, and accessible gameplay make it a worthwhile experience. However, the lack of challenge and distinctive identity may not resonate with all players. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, Zelda-inspired adventure, Oceanhorn is worth checking out.

Game Information

• Developer: Cornfox & Brothers
• Publisher: Cornfox & Bros
• Genre: Action, RPG, Puzzle
• Release Date: March 17, 2015
• Platform: PC

Minimum System Requirements

• OS: Windows 7
• CPU: 2.8GHz Core 2 Duo +
• RAM: 2GB
• VGA: GeForce GTS450 | AMD Radeon HD 4770 +
• HDD: 3GB

Test System Configuration

• OS: Windows 10 Pro 64-bit
• CPU: Ryzen R7 1700 @ 3.7 GHz
• RAM: 16 GB
• VGA: Gigabyte Rx 560 OC 2GB
• HDD: Samsung 950 Pro 256GB