Pyre is the latest game from the developers of Bastion and Transistor, Supergiant Games. Played best using headphones. Check for options here. Here, players compete against each other to win glory and earn their freedom. Right from the start, players will notice that this game is loaded with beautiful character and world design as well as dazzling music.
The question, however, is it nothing more than a shiny finish or is Pyre a real gem? This game review lays everything down for you.
Eclectic Mix of Game Elements
Pyre has established its own unique game mechanics that can be found nowhere else. It brings together fantasy RPG elements and sports. In particular, it incorporates some of the gameplay one would expect from football and basketball games. Weirdly enough, this bold choice to mix seemingly irreconcilable elements resulted in a highly addictive game with enough depth to keep you coming back for more.
Basically, your objective in a match is to take an orb to the opponent’s goal on the other end of the court. More often than not, you will have to sprint, dodge, and leap your way towards your it as your opponents come at you head on. As you score, you are able to douse the opposing team’s pyre and reduce its energy bit by bit. In order to win the match, you have to be able to completely extinguish the opposing team’s pyre.
Remember that while the match is 3v3, you can only control one character at a time though you can switch characters anytime during the entire course of the match. This comes in handy as you will need to be mindful of the positioning of your different team mates at all times. This keeps the game dynamic as your strategic mind will be put to the test in more ways than one.
In addition to this, it would also be wise for players to take note of their characters’ class. The RPG elements really shine here as each of them has their own advantages and disadvantages. Every character has their own offensive and defensive moves unique to their character types. So, it would be best for you to ensure that your team plays off each other’s strengths and weaknesses.
It is also worth noting that Pyre offers players a deep and engaging story mode. It revolves around your character’s quest to escape their unjust imprisonment in a purgatory-like realm called the Downside. If you win enough matches then you earn your chance at freedom and redemption. Doesn’t sound like the most original premise, but it doesn’t matter because this game is pretty awesome. As you go on your journey across the Downside, you will start to build your team of champions, take on challengers and hone your skills.
The Verdict
Pyre is a great game that brings a mixed bag of game elements and makes them work perfectly. We highly recommend that you give this game a try. The matches alone are certainly worth your time and the story mode adds an additional layer to the overall experience.
