We played the demo of another video game created by a solo developer using the Unity engine. The developer's name is Petr Najman, and the video game is titled 'Ancient Shadows Awakening'.
Petr is from the Czech Republic, which we understand from the fact that part of the introductory menu, as well as the in-game menu, is in Czech. Some of you might know this developer from Reddit or Steam forums, where he shares his progress in releasing this video game, as well as trailers for it.
The game itself is a blend of the nostalgic feel of classic 'dungeon crawlers' from the nineties with modern 3D graphics and newer combat mechanics. We were among the first to play the beta-test version, which has obvious shortcomings that need to be refined – there are mechanical issues in the movements of the enemies, as well as quite frequent glitches. The game is in first-person perspective, and in it, we solve puzzles and fight various monsters through the dungeons of a castle.
The game features a 'bestiary' that fills up each time we encounter a monster, item, or even a plant. We are an explorer or a prisoner (depending on the path we take) and we explore the dungeons we find ourselves in. They are a true labyrinth, and right from the start, some players will find it challenging to solve puzzles while navigating through various rooms and corridors. As we progress through the levels, we uncover the past of the people who lived in the castle we are traversing. Currently, the video game has no cutscenes, so we learn everything through writings and inscriptions on the walls, as well as the aforementioned puzzles.
Gameplay is simple – there aren't many controls. We played the PC version (the developer sent us a Steam key). We move with the classic keyboard keys, and for the menu, inventory, and crafting, we use the mouse. It is still unknown whether there will be a console version at all. The graphics are solid. The enemies look somewhat comical, but with a bit of additional effort, they could turn into terrifying horror monsters that will make life difficult for players. Currently, there is no music; we are accompanied only by the eerie silence of the dungeon and the sound of the player's footsteps.
This video game has potential, but it is clear that it is not finished. As a solo indie developer, Petr Najman has a huge task ahead of him. It is up to us to help him with our feedback, as the video game currently has many more positive than negative aspects. The atmosphere is top-notch, the graphics are good, and the gameplay is at a high level. With a little effort, 'Ancient Shadows Awakening' could become a very good game in its genre.
