Inexistence (2016)

Inexistence (2016) presents a compelling story centered on Hald and his sister, who serve as the "Keepers" chosen by the gods. Their very existence upholds the balance and order of the world. However, tranquility is fragile, and not everyone seeks harmony. Claos, a figure consumed by dark intentions, targets Hald's sister, casting her into a deep slumber to disrupt the world's equilibrium and usher in chaos. Determined to restore balance, Hald embarks on a perilous journey to confront Claos and lift the spell, navigating a vast and enigmatic world fraught with challenges and hidden dangers.

Gameplay and Features

Developed independently by Jonathan Brassaud, Inexistence is designed for PC and draws inspiration from the Metroidvania style, reminiscent of classic 16-bit era games. Players are invited to explore a wide array of environments, each crafted in detailed pixel art that reflects the aesthetic quality of legendary SNES titles.

• Expansive Worlds: Travel through diverse locations filled with secrets, obstacles, and environmental storytelling that enriches the experience.
• RPG Elements: Customize characters by adjusting stats, equipping new items, and unlocking abilities to enhance gameplay and adapt to different challenges.
• Enemy Variety: Encounter a broad bestiary of foes, including formidable bosses that require strategy and skill to defeat.
• Side Quests and Hidden Areas: Discover numerous optional missions and concealed locations that reward exploration and attention to detail.
• Difficulty Levels: Engage with multiple difficulty settings to suit various player skills and preferences, from casual exploration to intense combat.
• Steam Integration: Unlock achievements, collect trading cards, and earn badges, providing additional challenges and incentives for completionists.

Visual and Technical Design

The game embraces a pixel art aesthetic, meticulously designed to evoke the charm and detail of classic 16-bit RPGs. Each area is uniquely themed, with intricate backgrounds, interactive objects, and dynamic enemy placements. The visual style complements the narrative, immersing players in a world where every location tells part of the story and exploration is consistently rewarded.

Character Progression

Players manage Hald's growth through equipment upgrades and skill acquisition, enabling tailored strategies to approach combat and exploration. The game encourages experimentation with different builds and abilities, allowing players to refine their approach based on personal playstyle or to overcome particularly challenging adversaries.

Exploration and Discovery

Exploration is a core aspect of Inexistence, with hidden passages, secret treasures, and optional quests spread throughout the environment. The game rewards thorough investigation, presenting challenges that require careful observation, timing, and the effective use of acquired abilities. Each discovery enhances the overall experience, making exploration both meaningful and engaging.

Combat System

The combat system in Inexistence combines strategic planning with fast-paced encounters. Players face diverse enemies with unique attack patterns and weaknesses, demanding adaptation and careful use of skills. Boss battles provide particularly intense challenges, testing mastery of mechanics and the effective deployment of abilities and equipment.

Achievements and Collectibles

Inexistence includes a comprehensive set of achievements, Steam trading cards, and badges. These elements add layers of replayability, encouraging players to revisit areas, complete side quests, and explore every aspect of the game world. Collecting these rewards complements the gameplay loop and provides tangible milestones for dedicated players.

Conclusion

Inexistence (2016) combines rich storytelling, strategic combat, and expansive exploration in a pixel art Metroidvania framework. Its focus on character development, varied environments, and engaging challenges ensures a deeply immersive experience for players who enjoy methodical exploration, tactical encounters, and uncovering every secret hidden within a meticulously crafted world.

Inexistence is a charming indie game that brings back the feeling of classic 16-bit adventures. Its pixel art is bright and detailed, and the world feels alive and full of secrets to explore. The mix of RPG elements and Metroidvania-style gameplay keeps things interesting as you level up, find new gear, and unlock abilities.

The story is simple but engaging, with a clear mission that drives you forward. The variety of locations, bosses, and side quests adds depth, and the different difficulty levels make it accessible for casual players and challenging for veterans alike.

Overall, Inexistence is worth your time if you enjoy retro-style exploration games with RPG elements. It’s not perfect, but it’s fun, nostalgic, and offers a lot of content for a small indie title. We recommend giving it a try.