Developer: Infamous Rabbit
Publisher: Galaktus
Genre: RPG
Price: $14.99
Release Date: April 3rd, 2025
Where to buy: Steam
Oddventure, an RPG that wears its EarthBound and LISA influences proudly on its sleeve, is a curious beast. It presents a world steeped in fairy tale absurdity, twisted and distorted through a dark lens. Gameplay, at its core, is a turn-based affair, but it’s far from standard. The emphasis on status effects and exploiting enemy weaknesses adds a layer of strategic depth that demands attention. While the combat system isn’t groundbreaking, it’s consistently engaging, forcing players to adapt and experiment with a wide array of skills and items.
The difficulty curve can be a bit jagged, with sudden spikes that might frustrate those seeking a more casual experience. However, the sheer variety of encounters and the quirky enemy designs keep things from becoming monotonous. The exploration aspect is also well-handled, with a world that’s both intriguing and perilous, rewarding those who dare to stray from the beaten path.
The story, however, is where Oddventure truly shines, or perhaps, where it delves deepest into the shadows. Following the troubled heroine, Bonnie, on her quest to find her lost brother, the narrative unfolds with a blend of dark humor and genuine emotional weight. The fairy tale setting, initially whimsical, quickly reveals its sinister undercurrents, populated by characters that are as tragic as they are bizarre. The writing is sharp, often darkly comedic, and unafraid to tackle mature themes. The branching narrative and multiple endings offer a significant degree of replayability, encouraging players to explore the world’s secrets and make different choices, each altering the course of Bonnie’s journey. The characters, both allies and enemies, are memorable, each possessing their own distinct personalities and motivations, making the world feel alive and lived-in.
Overall, Oddventure is a compelling experience for those who appreciate RPGs with a distinct personality. It’s not without its flaws, the occasional difficulty spike and some minor pacing issues can be a bit jarring. However, the unique world, the engaging combat, and the darkly captivating story more than compensate for these shortcomings. It’s a game that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, leaving a sense of unease and a lingering curiosity to unravel its mysteries. If you’re looking for an RPG that dares to be different, that embraces the weird and the unsettling, Oddventure is a journey worth taking. It’s a game that revels in its oddity, and that’s precisely what makes it so enjoyable.
