Laika: Aged Through Blood, developed by Brainwash Gang and published by Headup Games, brings a unique post-apocalyptic “motorvania” to the PlayStation 5 after an initial PC launch that was very well-received. The game centers around a narrative where a mother coyote warrior embarks on a vengeful journey to reclaim her tribe’s lost land from oppressive forces that occupy her homeland. With its vehicular combat, sprawling hand-drawn wasteland, and a storyline that explores themes of vengeance and loss, Laika aims to carve out its space in the ever-expanding and crowded world of Metroidvanias – but does so very well.
Navigating the game’s challenging terrain, you’ll find yourself atop a trusty motorbike, speeding through the vast hand-painted landscapes. The game introduces a slew of mechanics to heighten the difficulty, attempting to deliver a unique and engaging experience. The premise and narrative of Laika are very engaging, though the limited starting ammunition and the combination of one-hit kills can make combat quite challenging, even leading to some frustration if the difficulty level gets to you. Persist though, and you’ll find it’s worth it.
The core gameplay revolves around controlling your bike, and here, Laika draws inspiration from Ubisoft’s Trials series – though with simplified physics to make it suitable for those who aren’t acrobats with their gamepad. The motorbike’s control scheme, with acceleration and leaning mechanics, is going to be familiar though, and makes for an engaging experience. The addition of reloading through backflips and deflecting bullets with front flips contributes to the game’s distinct identity as well, though the camera angles and the need for precision in certain situations can be momentary dealbreakers.
Despite Laika’s small flaws, the game certainly has its moments of brilliance. The hand-drawn visuals are excellent, contributing to the atmospheric beauty of the post-apocalyptic world in which the story takes place. The soundtrack is possibly even better, emotionally-laden and evocative at times, complementing the overall tone of the game and its narrative. The unique combat mechanics, such as time slowdown during weapon use, also enhance the overall gaming experience.
In conclusion, Laika: Aged Through Blood is a testament to the creativity and ambition of Brainwash Gang. While certain mechanics can be challenging to master, the game’s positives far outweigh its drawbacks. The expansive world, engaging narrative, and unique gameplay mechanics make it a standout title. For those willing to embrace the challenges, Laika offers a captivating and rewarding experience that transcends its occasional frustrations. Another indie gem at the tail end of 2023.
Score: 8.0/10
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