Review: Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist (Nintendo Switch eShop)

If you’re a fan of metroidvania-style games, Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is one that might pique your interest. Most of the game takes place in a dark world consumed by a mysterious toxic mist and a bunch of creepy monsters. Whether you’re here for the exploration, intense boss fights, or just to enjoy the awesome hand-drawn graphics, Ender Magnolia has a lot to offer.

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a follow-up to the game Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights. This newest installment expands on its predecessor’s dark underworld, tight combat, and the amount of exploration. You play as Lilac. She has the power to purify the many creatures lurking around that have been consumed by the environment (they are called Homunculi).

Ender Magnolia takes place in a once-thriving kingdom now consumed by a poisonous mist. This deadly fog turns the Homunculi into the scary creatures we encounter throughout the game. As Lilac explores the ruined world, she seeks to restore order and uncover the mystery behind the poisonous mist.

One of Ender Magnolia’s most interesting features is the Homunculi system. Instead of using regular weapons like a sword or spear, Lilac summons purified Homunculi to fight for her. Some of these creatures are offensive allies, others provide defense when needed. The ability to customize these summons makes for an interesting combat experience.

Ender Magnolia is a great game for players who like to explore. As you progress, you can unlock new abilities that will allow you enter previously inaccessible areas, or secret pathways. You can also unlock an ability that makes it easier to travel back and forth between different areas, which comes in handy later on. 

Aesthetically, Ender Magnolia is a really attractive game. The hand-drawn art style looks great with the ominous, dark tones. Everything is very detailed, bringing the decaying world and monsters to life (especially the bosses). The music fits well too. It’s sort of a melancholic, orchestral vibe. Audio and visuals combined, it feels very much like the world in this game is on the brink of crumbling apart. One of my favorite parts of this game was the animated cutscenes. They made the story and characters a lot more interesting. 

I’m not usually a fan of metroidvania games, but I actually enjoyed this one. It was easy to explore. The story and likeable characters make you want to keep playing. For anyone who loved Ender Lilies, or enjoys metroidvania games in general, Ender Magnolia is a must-play. It includes a good amount of exploration, a great story, and beautiful hand-drawn graphics. Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a available on the Nintendo eShop now.