Summary
Sands of Aura is a mesmerizing journey into a twilight world buried beneath an endless sea of sand. The game’s engaging narrative, challenging combat, and freedom of exploration make it a standout title in the action-adventure genre.
Developer – Chashu Entertainment
Publisher – Freedom Games
Platforms – PC (Reviewed)
Review copy given by Publisher
Sands of Aura stands out presenting an open-world action-adventure within a fantasy realm cloaked in twilight. The game transports players to a world buried beneath an endless sea of sand, where they must embark on a journey to restore life to a dying land. Sands of Aura is a captivating blend of immersive storytelling and challenging, souls-like combat.
The game’s premise is gripping, as it unfolds in a world devastated by a ruinous cataclysm, unleashed by a tormented god, which plunged the realm of Talamhel into perpetual night. The shattered hourglass of time poured its essence across the land, transforming it into a desolate sea of sand. The once-thriving world is now inhabited by violent, undying husks of corruption. Amidst this chaos, you assume the role of one of the righteous few, on the brink of induction into the Order of Remnant Knights, the last protectors of humanity.
As the corruption intensifies, your mission becomes clear: track down the source of the emerging evil and destroy it to safeguard the realm of man. The narrative is rich and compelling, drawing players into a world on the brink of extinction.
One of the standout features of Sands of Aura is the freedom it offers players. From the helm of your nimble grainwake, you can navigate the perilous sandseas and chart your course forward. The shifting sands conceal secrets, dangers, and uncharted paths, making every journey a unique adventure. Talamhel is an open world waiting to be explored, with each island offering a colorful blend of combat, lore, and plunder.
The game also introduces tiered levels of difficulty, ensuring that challenges are tailored to the player’s skill level. What’s more, you’re not alone on this perilous journey; you’ll have a trusted undead companion in the crow’s nest, adding depth to the gameplay experience.
The corruption that plagues Talamhel is a formidable adversary, consisting of both humans and native creatures like the venerable Ferrum and the insectoid Hashara. The enemies you encounter, from doomsday cultists to fallen kings, are determined to thwart your progress. Sands of Aura promises an unrelenting and unforgiving combat experience, akin to souls-like games, where precision and skill are essential. With hundreds of weapon components to be reclaimed, there are thousands of unique weapons to forge, allowing players to customize their combat style.
The game features seven distinct fighting styles, dozens of armor sets, and the ability to combine and modify weapons with magical augments, providing a personalized combat build that suits your playstyle.
In addition to the action and combat, Sands of Aura adds a layer of strategy through its settlement management system. Starspire, your sanctuary, serves as a refuge for refugees you encounter during your journey. Each new resident strengthens and fortifies Starspire, but not all are deserving. Your choices regarding Starspire’s residents have a lasting impact on the game’s story and your character’s fate. This optional companion gameplay feature adds depth and moral dilemmas, encouraging players to explore the grey area between right and wrong.
The game’s Symphony of Sands is brought to life through an evocative and soul-stirring soundtrack composed by Eduardo Lopez. The fully symphonic soundtrack incorporates a wide selection of instruments, including haunting strings and resonant choirs, creating an unforgettable auditory experience.
Sands of Aura is a mesmerizing journey into a twilight world buried beneath an endless sea of sand. The game’s engaging narrative, challenging combat, and freedom of exploration make it a standout title in the action-adventure genre.
