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The gaming world thrives on diverse narratives, drawing inspiration from familiar themes like war, post-apocalypse, zombie outbreaks, and of course, folklore. While Western games often lean on the Grimm Brothers, Japanese titles often explore local legends. Breadcrumbs Interactive’s Yaga takes a bold step, blending action RPG gameplay with the rich tapestry of Slavic folklore, specifically the infamous Baba Yaga. Originally released on PS4 in 2017 to positive reviews, Yaga has since expanded its reach to PC (Epic Store and Steam) and Nintendo Switch. But does this unique blend of folklore and gameplay forge a compelling experience? Let’s delve into the world of one-handed blacksmith Ivan.

Yaga

Engaging Gameplay Hammered Out

Yaga presents itself as a 2D side-scrolling action RPG. Players control Ivan, navigating with WASD or a gamepad’s left analog stick. Actions like attacking, dodging, and item usage are mapped to other buttons. Ivan begins his journey armed with a simple blacksmith’s hammer, surprisingly versatile for both melee combat and ranged attacks by throwing it.

As a skilled blacksmith, Ivan can forge new weapons and upgrade his trusty hammer with collected materials. These upgrades introduce unique features like chains and fire enchantments. Yaga challenges players not only through combat encounters with varied enemies but also through its crafting system. Gathering materials requires completing quests for NPCs, exploring hidden areas, and defeating enemies.

Yaga

A unique mechanic in Yaga is the reputation system. Dialogue choices and actions shape Ivan’s personality. Players can mold him into a selfless hero, a cold-hearted egoist, or an opportunistic rogue. The game cleverly incorporates a “karma” system. Inconsistency in chosen behavior brings misfortune, ranging from reduced drop rates and increased enemy critical hits to the appearance of Baba Yaga herself, who steals Ivan’s hard-earned equipment. Choosing a path and sticking to it becomes crucial for survival.

A Visually Striking World

Yaga‘s distinctive hand-drawn art style, reminiscent of watercolors, immediately sets it apart. While many games chase photorealistic 3D graphics, Breadcrumbs Interactive embraces a unique aesthetic. The muted color palette, punctuated by strategically placed highlights, creates an atmosphere both whimsical and melancholic, perfectly reflecting the game’s Slavic folklore setting.

Yaga

The character design is equally compelling. Ivan is not a chiseled knight but a middle-aged, one-handed blacksmith with a noticeable paunch. This unconventional protagonist adds to the game’s charm. The enemy designs, from ferocious boars and ravenous werewolves to scythe-wielding hags, are equally imaginative, reinforcing Yaga‘s unique identity.

A Few Cracks in the Foundation

Despite its strengths, Yaga has some shortcomings. The secondary weapon system feels underwhelming. While players can craft bows, crossbows, and daggers, their damage and utility pale in comparison to the versatile hammer.

Yaga

The animation, while not terrible, can feel stiff at times. The 2D side-scrolling perspective, combined with the ability to move vertically, necessitates multiple character sprites and animations. This occasionally results in awkward transitions and a less-than-fluid movement.

Finally, Yaga‘s difficulty can be punishing. While it incorporates RPG elements, leveling up doesn’t guarantee an easy win. Later boss fights demand skillful combat, especially when combined with the reputation system’s potential for misfortune. Losing valuable equipment to Baba Yaga can significantly impact progress.

Yaga

Conclusion: A Worthy Forging

Despite its flaws, Yaga offers a refreshing and engaging experience. Its unique blend of Slavic folklore, striking visuals, and challenging gameplay makes it a worthwhile addition to any gamer’s library. While the secondary weapons and occasional stiff animation may detract slightly, the overall package is a testament to the creativity and potential of indie game development. If you are looking for a unique action RPG experience steeped in folklore, Yaga is definitely worth exploring.