If the name Everwind seems somewhat familiar, it’s likely due to its previous incarnation as Skyverse, a title that developer Enjoy Studio rebranded earlier this year to better align with their creative vision. This change became apparent during my recent visit to Gamescom, where I found myself enveloped in a wave of déjà vu, recalling my first encounter with the game at the Koelnmesse just a year prior.
Exploring New Heights
As I settled into a cozy booth at Bohemia Interactive’s space, the team from Enjoy Studio commenced their presentation, highlighting the evolution of Everwind over the past year. Among the exciting developments was the announcement of a console edition, which had been revealed in the spring. Following the presentation, we dove into a guided demo, where the developers articulated their core objective: to explore and carve out one’s own adventure, with the ultimate goal of ascending to the isolated floating islands that dot the sky.
Unlike the interconnected Hallelujah Mountains of Avatar, these islands are spaced apart, necessitating the use of an airship. This vessel serves not only as a means of transportation but also as a customizable hub that players can design and upgrade according to their vision, provided they gather the necessary resources. The voxel design allows for a building suite reminiscent of Minecraft, yet with a unique twist that introduces more complex construction mechanics, such as piping and machinery management. Mastering these elements is crucial, as a well-equipped airship is essential for reaching the higher islands, where rare loot and resources await.
The Adventure Awaits
Everwind’s gameplay unfolds in a vertical dimension, echoing the Metroidvania style where many locations remain inaccessible until players acquire the right tools. The allure of visiting these islands lies in the discovery of dungeons and hidden areas filled with enemies, traps, and enticing rewards. To navigate these challenges, players will engage in intense first-person combat, utilizing weapons and magic to fend off foes that are often stronger and better equipped than themselves. The stakes are high; while players can respawn on their airship, any lost loot remains behind, adding a layer of tension to each encounter.
The game boasts a procedurally-generated world, ensuring that each adventure is unique and virtually limitless. Additionally, the option for cooperative play allows friends to join in on the exploration, enhancing the overall experience. Everwind is shaping up to be an intriguing voxel RPG, particularly appealing to those who may have been disappointed by the recent cancellation of Hytale. With its depth and emphasis on player agency, Everwind invites players to define their own journeys, making it a title to watch for when it launches on PC and consoles in the future.
