The original Plague Tale game, Innocence was one of the highlights of 2019, little did the world know that a real plague was on the way. The sequel has lofty heights to live up to but it surpasses them by going big.
Once again the game is set in a dark and gritty France ravaged by the Black Death, and it does an excellent job of immersing players in this bleak and terrifying environment. The level design is impressive, with stunningly detailed environments that make you feel like you are genuinely in the midst of the plague-ridden world.
As in the original game Plague Tale: Requiem is all about the main characters. The main protagonists, Amicia and Hugo, are wonderfully realized and their journey is both moving and thrilling. Their relationship is at the heart of the game, and their struggles and triumphs are incredibly engaging.
Gameplay-wise, Plague Tale: Requiem is a lot of fun. The stealth mechanics are well-implemented and challenging, and the puzzles are cleverly designed. I also appreciated the variety in the enemies and the ways to defeat them, which kept the game fresh and exciting throughout.
The sequel uses open space much more effectively and with the extra tools at Amicia’s disposal, you are never short of options in how to get to the next area. Get the rats to eat someone, burn them with an improvised molotov cocktail or simply sneak past.
While the collison detection and camera can let you down when you get spotted, new story character NPC’s add the option of portable light sources and melee combat to make it less frustrating.
The areas you get to visit in this sequel are also grander.
Like Plague Tale: Innocence Many of the game’s early levels take place in small, medieval villages. These environments are characterized by narrow streets, cramped buildings, and plenty of hiding spots to avoid the plague-infested rats that roam the streets. These levels are often dark and atmospheric, with a sense of foreboding that adds to the game’s tension.
As the game progresses, players will venture into dense forests where they’ll encounter new enemies and obstacles. These levels are often more open than the village levels, allowing for more exploration and strategic planning. The forests are also home to plenty of wildlife, which can be both a blessing and a curse for the player.
The game’s later levels take place in imposing castles and fortresses, which are crawling with guards and other enemies. These environments are more structured than the previous landscapes, with clearly defined paths and objectives. But of course despite the impressive locations, the star of the show is again the rats.
In Plague Tale: Innocence, the rats were certainly a threat, but they were smaller and less numerous than in Requiem. The swarms of rats in Requiem are larger and more imposing, and they are able to move more quickly and decisively. They are also more resistant to light, making it harder to keep them at bay.
The scale of the rat swarms in Plague Tale: Requiem is a testament to the game’s improved technology and design. The developers have pushed the limits of what’s possible with modern gaming hardware, creating a more immersive and challenging experience for players. Whether you’re new to the Plague Tale series or a returning fan, the rats in Requiem are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Overall, Plague Tale: Requiem is an excellent game that is definitely worth playing. The combination of stunning visuals, engaging characters, and solid gameplay make for a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re a fan of adventure games or just looking for a captivating story, this is a game you don’t want to miss.
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