Soulmask – Review

Soulmask throws you into a harsh survival experience with a unique twist: a mysterious mask imbuing you with forgotten knowledge. This blend of survival, RPG, and strategy creates a compelling world to explore, but be prepared for a bumpy ride with some unpolished areas.

A World Reborn Through a Mask

The game opens with a bang – you narrowly escape a deadly ritual and stumble upon the Soulmask. This ancient artifact becomes your guide and lifeline, granting you knowledge of crafting, taming creatures, and even mind control. The world itself is vast and unforgiving, filled with dangers like wild animals, environmental hazards, and hostile factions. The sense of mystery surrounding the Soulmask and the world’s shattered state keeps you pushing forward to uncover the secrets.

Building Your Tribe: A Complex Dance of Survival

Soulmask isn’t just about fending for yourself. You’ll encounter “Scouts” scattered throughout the world. By using the Soulmask’s power, you can dominate their minds and gain their knowledge and skills. These followers become the backbone of your growing tribe. Here’s where the game shines: the follower system offers depth. You can assign them tasks, specialize them in different skills, and even equip them for combat. This adds a strategic layer to exploration and base building, making decisions about who to control and how to utilize their strengths crucial for survival.

Where the Mask Starts to Slip: Performance and Polish

While the core gameplay loop is engaging, Soulmask suffers from technical shortcomings. The movement mechanics can feel clunky, and frame drops, especially on lower settings, can disrupt the experience. The user interface is cluttered and lacks intuitive design, making navigation and menu interaction more frustrating than necessary. Furthermore, the lack of a comprehensive tutorial leaves new players struggling to grasp the game’s intricacies.

Aesthetics and Atmosphere: A World of Contradictions

Soulmask boasts a beautiful world visually. The environments are diverse, ranging from lush forests to desolate wastelands. However, some animations and sound effects are missing, creating a sense of incompleteness. The music is atmospheric and adds tension during exploration, but it can become repetitive during extended sessions.

Is Soulmask Worth It? A Game of Potential with Patience

Soulmask is a game of potential. The core ideas – the Soulmask’s power, the follower system, and the vast explorable world – are strong. However, the technical problems and lack of polish can be significant hurdles. If you’re patient and willing to persevere through some jank, Soulmask offers a rewarding experience for those who enjoy deep survival and strategy mechanics. But for those seeking a smooth and polished experience, it might be best to wait for the developers to iron out the wrinkles.

In Conclusion:

Soulmask is a niche game that caters to players who enjoy a challenge and building their own world. While technical issues hold it back, the core gameplay holds immense potential. If you have the patience to explore a world brimming with secrets and the determination to overcome its stumbles, Soulmask might just become your next adventure.