Near and Far

Near and Far is a captivating game that takes you on a journey of exploration and adventure. I was initially drawn to the beautiful artwork and the promise of a captivating story, and I was not disappointed. The game is a sequel to Above and Below, but it stands on its own with a unique set of mechanics and a rich narrative.

The core gameplay revolves around exploring different maps, gathering resources, recruiting adventurers, and building up your character's skills. You can choose to focus on the story mode, which guides you through a series of encounters with choices that impact the narrative, or opt for a more traditional point-scoring approach. I found the story mode particularly engaging, as it adds depth and intrigue to the gameplay. The "choose your own adventure" elements add a personal touch, making each playthrough feel unique.

However, some aspects of the game could use a little more polish. The player-to-player interaction is relatively limited, and the overarching plot, while present, isn't as engaging as I hoped it would be. The maps, while visually stunning, lack distinct objectives and can feel repetitive. While the game has excellent replay value, these shortcomings prevent it from reaching its full potential.

Despite its flaws, Near and Far is a solid game that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys exploration, storytelling, and strategic gameplay. The beautiful art, unique mechanics, and engaging narrative make it a worthwhile addition to any game collection. If you're looking for a game with a deeper story or more player interaction, you might want to consider other options. But if you enjoy the style of Above and Below and are looking for a new adventure, Near and Far is definitely worth checking out.