Kona II: Brume, the sequel to the surprising Kona (which also appeared for VR headsets), returns players to the chilling landscapes of Northern Québec. Set in 1970, Detective Carl Faubert must navigate through a distorted reality brought on by the mysterious Brume, a supernatural mist that is suddenly enveloping a mining village. Parabole, the Canadian developers, have crafted another narrative-driven experience with elements of survival, creating a nice blend of storytelling and gameplay. We playtested it on a PlayStation 5.
The game maintains the atmospheric charm of its predecessor, offering a rich narrative steeped in mystery. The story picks up seamlessly from the first game as well, so it wouldn’t be a bad idea to start out with that one if you haven’t played it already. Kona II: Brume immerses players in a tale of transformation, death, and a powerful, enigmatic mineral. The return of the narrator from the first game adds guidance to the experience, providing valuable insights and aiding in puzzle-solving. But while the narrative is engaging, some players may find the visual atmosphere lacking in tension, especially in the snowy landscapes and indoor locations – which as The Thing taught us should actually be really scary stuff.
In terms of the survival mechanics that the game offers, Kona II offers a lighter and more easy-going experience compared to the original. The need to manage your body temperature and mental health has been simplified, and resources like firewood and medkits are relatively plentiful. The removal of item weight and the absence of a crafting system further streamline the gameplay, but combat is still a weaker aspect of the game. Gunplay feels somewhat imprecise and floaty, and certain firearms are less enjoyable to use because of it.
The investigation and puzzle-solving elements shine in Kona II. Exploring the intricately designed landscapes of Manastan and delving into Carl’s journal for clues are both enjoyable. While most puzzles are well-designed and complement the experience, a few may feel unnecessarily complex and might stump and frustrate players. Away from puzzles, some in-game areas also lack clear direction, leading to moments of aimless wandering.
The game’s visuals represent a significant improvement over the original, showcasing detailed environments and a captivating portrayal of the winter setting. However, further optimization is needed, as occasional frame rate fluctuations on the PS5 may disrupt the immersion in the story. This is a shame, also because the DualSense support is really good, enhancing the exploration experience.
Ultimately, Kona II: Brume succeeds in delivering a compelling sequel to its predecessor. The game excels in narrative-driven exploration, offering a captivating story and mostly engaging puzzles. However, certain gameplay elements, like the combat, may not resonate with all players. The improved graphics and atmospheric design contribute to the overall experience, making Kona II a worthy continuation of the series.
Score: 7.3/10
Press Play Media 