Warm Snow review (PS5)

Warm Snow, developed by BadMudStudio and published by Microids on consoles after its earlier Steam release, presents a dark tale set in a world plagued by a bizarre phenomenon known as “Warm Snow.” This roguelike action game, reminiscent of titles like Hades in look and feel, follows the journey of Warrior Bi-an as he battles through the Five Great Clans to uncover the truth behind this enigmatic occurrence. We played it on a PS5.

The narrative of Warm Snow unfolds amidst a backdrop of warm, unmelting snow and a world that’s on the brink of chaos. Players assume the role of Bi-an, a warrior thrust into a surreal and perilous quest. But while the story premise is intriguing, its delivery can be a little inconsistent, leaving players wanting for a more cohesive narrative thread.

Gameplay-wise, Warm Snow introduces a range of rogue-like elements that keep each playthrough fresh and unique. With six distinct sects, varied relics, and unpredictable excaliburs, players are presented with a wide array of customization options during their runs. This depth, however, also demands significant time and effort to master and grind out the permanent upgrades, making this one a little less newcomer-friendly.

The combat in Warm Snow is a standout feature, offering a dynamic fusion of light and shadow. Having control over flying swords, each with unique attributes and attack modes, adds a novel layer to the gameplay. Once leveled up, it allows Bi-an to cause tons of chaos and destruction – though Boss battles have a tendency to still drag on a little too long. Warm Snow offers a robust progression system, allowing players to fine-tune Bi-an’s abilities through talent points and the acquisition of “Memory Fragments.” However, the presentation of upgrades lacks a little clarity, making for a bit of a learning curve.

The visual presentation of Warm Snow is undeniably striking, employing a distinctive paper-cutout style that lends the game a unique charm. While this aesthetic choice is commendable, the overall visual experience may feel somewhat generic to seasoned players who look beyond that initial impression, especially those well-acquainted with the roguelike genre.

In conclusion, Warm Snow is a commendable addition to the roguelike genre, offering a visually striking world and decent combat. While it shares similarities with popular titles like Hades, it carves its own path with a unique style and atmosphere. However, its learning curve and grindy nature may affect player enjoyment. If you have experience in the genre and you’re seeking a challenging and visually captivating roguelike experience, Warm Snow is worth your consideration.

Score: 7.2/10