Review: Ender Magnolia: Blossoming in the Mist (PC)

ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist stands tall as a stunning and deeply moving entry in the Metroidvania genre. Created by Live Wire, this game not only builds on the legacy of its predecessor, ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights, but also introduces fresh mechanics, polished combat, and a more expansive world to explore. Judging by the numerous positive reviews on Steam, it’s evident that the game resonates with longtime fans and newcomers alike.

The game’s world design is truly a visual masterpiece. It invites you into a melancholic universe filled with crumbling landscapes and haunting beauty. The careful blend of hand-painted visuals and fluid animations offers each area a story of its own, while the artistic use of light and shadow pulls players into a world that is both sorrowful and enchanting.

Equally important is the music in setting the game’s tone, and ENDER MAGNOLIA excels here. The soundtrack enriches the experience with ethereal piano melodies, orchestral scores, and ambient tracks that suit the mood of each region perfectly. Many players highlight the soundtrack as one of the game’s standout features, with some even dubbing it a masterpiece. It heightens the emotional gravity of quiet and intense moments, elevating the overall gameplay experience.

Combat in ENDER MAGNOLIA shines with its responsiveness and seamless execution. Borrowing elements from the previous game, it refines these mechanics, offering a blend of challenge and reward. Players can flawlessly dodge, parry, and unleash combos, and they have the ability to summon spirit allies—which return from the first game—to aid in battles. These allies add a strategic layer to combat, catering to various playstyles. New in this sequel, players have the option to adjust the difficulty if the default challenge feels overly demanding.

Staying true to the Metroidvania tradition, the game encourages exploration, rewarding players with newfound skills to access previously unreachable spots. It beautifully manages the balance between challenge and progress, ensuring that every new ability enriches the experience. Those who enjoy delving into secrets and revisiting prior areas will find the level design thoroughly gratifying.

What would a Metroidvania be without memorable boss fights? ENDER MAGNOLIA does not disappoint on this front. Each encounter with a boss is distinct, pushing players to learn attack patterns, perfect their timing, and strategically use their spirit allies. While the difficulty is tough, it’s fair, rewarding dedicated players for mastering the mechanics. Defeating a challenging boss delivers an incredible sense of accomplishment, making these battles some of the game’s most thrilling highlights.

To wrap it all up, ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist is a crowning achievement in the Metroidvania landscape, combining breathtaking visuals, an engaging combat system, rich storytelling, and a memorable soundtrack. It takes what was established in ENDER LILIES: Quietus of the Knights and elevates it to a deeply immersive and rewarding experience. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to action RPGs, this game is a must-play. The overwhelmingly positive feedback on Steam speaks volumes about the dedication and skill behind its creation.

This review is based on a retail copy of the game provided by the publisher. In our assessment, ENDER MAGNOLIA earned a solid 8/10.