Announced at the PlayStation 5 Reveal event, Kena: Bridge of Spirits is a brand new IP that is being developed by Mike and Josh Grier from Ember Labs. The game will be released for the PlayStation 5 as well as the PlayStation 4 and PC through the Epic Games Store and will launch during the 2020 holiday season. The game’s story is about growth and redemption, which is accompanied by an unbelievably cute and unique style to boot.
The game is based around the character of Kena who is a spirit guide that is trying to figure out why an ancient village was destroyed despite being part of an economically vibrant area. Kena can use her staff to use magic skills, and can also call upon the Rot to assist her. The Rot are those cute little big-eyed critters running around in the trailer. As Kena, you’ll unlock secrets to the mystery of the ancient village, learn new skills, and attempt to bring back the prominence of the land.
The trailer shows Kena meditating on a tree in the forest with the Rot with a narrator in the background that constantly belittles her and her endeavor. Kena is then seen battling monsters with a shade of blue that are able to shape-shift into other beings such as monstrous trolls. Kena attacks with her staff that can transform into other weapons, as it is seen changing into a bow and arrow, and a sword. Kena is also seen using other types of magic including a one-handed attack that launches an energy projectile at her opponents.
Through all of this, Kena struggles to accomplish her goal, and at some points looks defeated. However, the music picks up and suddenly we’re treated to some minor gameplay aspects, showing that it will indeed be a third-person action title. The Rot follow you around wherever you go, which includes jumping as Kena is seen platforming on some hilltops. Kena can also command the Rot to perform physical tasks, such as moving statues from one spot to another.
Some combat was also shown with the aforementioned staff being utilized in every part. At the end, Kena uses her voice to cast a spell that eviscerates her opponent before it dissolves and turns the land green once more. Of all the titles revealed during the event, this one has more than likely stricken a cord in the gaming community. It’s cute, quirky, and exhilarating landscape is a sight to behold, and we can’t wait for it to come out.
Kena: Bridge of Spirits will launch this holiday for the PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC through the Epic Game Store.