Not only is everyone random with their thoughts, but they insert the unmistakable identity of an outrageous universe – a staple of the SNES classic. NPC conversations, in general, are where the similarities to Earthbound and Undertale truly prosper. Nice to see my sleeping habits extend to gaming. Not all of them, mind you, but I gave a damn about a few. What I took exception to is this title’s ability to engross me in its characters. It helps nail down the father and daughter dynamic between her and the other protagonist: John. Sam is, specifically, well done, and sports a clear child-like innocence. There’s straight-up robots, monkey humanoids, and muscle-bound dunces that all radiate charisma. The cast is varied, adding a lived-in and robust feel to the world. The banter too, though, wholesomeness and telling an enthralling tale took precedent above all else. One aspect I was enamoured with was character interactions, as well as their whimsy quirks. If that’s not an indication that Eastward wears its inspiration on its sleeve, then I don’t know what is. There’s even a mini-game that can be played called Earthborn. The overarching narrative is enjoyable and strongly reminiscent of Earthbound. A special shoutout goes to Sam and how she’d bounce to portray her giddiness – it’s so friggin adorable. That was aided further by the excellent animations – they’re so damn smooth. For instance, stutters depict nervousness, while methodical wording showcases excitement, disarray, or other such traits. I was also always able to determine proper emotions behind anything that was being said, thanks to the literary techniques used. Maybe it has to do with the graphical style, but being able to voice everyone myself felt right. Eastward, however, is far better for being text-only, and, quite frankly, it even flourishes as a result. It helps the player to feel immersed and, in some cases, empathize. It does so by injecting cadence into the dialogue, thus pronouncing the tone. These delicacies will grant health bonuses, power boosts and secret boons.I’ve often regurgitated the perception that voice acting can breathe life into an otherwise uninspired script. Create deliciously authentic Eastwardian cuisine using (mostly) fresh, organic ingredients from toxic forests, infested mines and abandoned malls.Get to know a quirky cast of characters with oodles of personality, as you immerse yourself in this heartwarming story-driven adventure, packed with fun and wacky humour.

Switch between controlling John and Sam to solve environmental puzzles and fight your way through formidable dungeons, separating to unlock hidden paths or sticking together as you traverse a perilous landscape.Fend off peculiar monsters and ferocious bosses with your weapon of choice - be it a gun, flamethrower or your trusty ol’ frying pan.Jump aboard the cross-country railway which spans this decaying continent, stopping off to explore its bustling towns, curious campsites and shady forests. Discover the wonderfully weird world of Eastward.Can you uncover the truth behind Sam’s mystic powers and bring back harmony to Eastward’s ravaged lands? Escape the tyrannical clutches of a subterranean society and join Eastward’s unlikely duo on an exciting adventure to the land above! Discover beautiful yet bizarre settlements and make new friends as you travel across the world by rail.Ĭombine John and Sam’s skills to solve dungeon puzzles, take down unusual enemies, and survive the deadly miasma.

Sam eastward