REVIEW / ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist (PC)

ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist is a breathtakingly beautiful and emotionally evocative addition to the Metroidvania genre. Developed by Live Wire, this game builds upon the foundation set by its predecessor, ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights, while introducing new mechanics, refined combat, and an expanded, immersive world. With overwhelmingly positive reviews on Steam, it is clear that this game has struck a chord with both veteran fans of the genre and newcomers alike.

One of the most striking aspects of ENDER MAGNOLIA is its stunning world design. Set in a beautifully melancholic universe filled with ruined landscapes and hauntingly gorgeous environments, the game masterfully blends hand-painted aesthetics with smooth animations. Every area tells a story, with visual storytelling playing a key role in creating a sense of mystery and wonder. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the atmosphere, drawing players into a world that feels both sorrowful and mesmerizing.

Music plays a crucial role in establishing the game’s tone, and ENDER MAGNOLIA does not disappoint. The soundtrack is composed of ethereal piano melodies, orchestral arrangements, and ambient tracks that perfectly capture the mood of each area. Many players have praised the soundtrack as one of the game’s strongest elements, with some even calling it a masterpiece in its own right. It enhances the emotional depth of the game, making quiet moments feel more introspective and battles feel more intense.

The combat in ENDER MAGNOLIA has been widely praised for its responsiveness and fluidity. Borrowing elements from its predecessor, the game refines the combat mechanics to create an experience that is both challenging and rewarding. Players can execute precise dodges, parries, and combos while summoning spirit allies, like in its predecessor, to assist in battle. These spirit allies add a layer of strategy, allowing players to customize their approach to combat based on their preferred playstyle. New to the sequel, players can set the difficulty if they find the gameplay a little too hardcore. 

True to the Metroidvania formula and its prequel, ENDER MAGNOLIA encourages exploration, rewarding players with new abilities that allow them to access previously unreachable areas. The game does an excellent job of balancing challenge and progression, ensuring that every new power-up feels meaningful. Players who enjoy uncovering secrets and backtracking to previous areas will find the level design highly satisfying.

A true Metroidvania experience wouldn’t be complete without memorable boss battles, and ENDER MAGNOLIA delivers on this front. Each boss encounter is unique, requiring players to learn attack patterns, time their dodges, and make strategic use of their spirit allies. The difficulty is fair but unforgiving, rewarding players who take the time to master the mechanics. The feeling of finally overcoming a difficult boss is immensely satisfying, making these battles some of the game’s most exhilarating moments.

In conclusion, ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist is another triumph in the Metroidvania genre, combining breathtaking visuals, a compelling combat system, atmospheric storytelling, and an unforgettable soundtrack. It refines and expands upon the foundations laid by ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights, creating a deeply immersive and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the genre or someone looking for a beautifully crafted action RPG, this game is an absolute must-play. The overwhelmingly positive reception on Steam is well deserved, and it stands as a testament to the passion and craftsmanship of its developers.

This review is based on a retail copy of the game provided by the publisher.