Lina Irawan
The traditional lull in new video game releases following the major summer showcases presents a unique challenge for gamers: how to fill the void left by the usual torrent of blockbuster titles. For many, this period is an opportune moment to delve into their existing libraries and tackle those games that have been languishing, awaiting a dedicated play session. This year, the quiet gaming landscape on PlayStation 5 has seen one title emerge as a surprisingly compelling distraction: Ascendant Studios’ debut title, Immortals of Aveum. Despite the studio’s unfortunate closure after this single release, the game itself offers a robust and enjoyable experience that merits revisiting, particularly for those seeking a fresh adventure during these slower months.
The Quiet Before the Storm: Navigating the Summer Gaming Drought
The period immediately following major industry events like Summer Game Fest, Xbox Games Showcase, and PlayStation’s State of Play often ushers in a noticeable slowdown in the release of new, high-profile video games. This "lull" is a well-documented phenomenon, allowing developers to prepare for the onslaught of holiday releases and enabling players to catch up on their backlogs. For a dedicated gamer like the author of this piece, who typically manages to stay current with the release schedule, these quiet periods can sometimes present a personal dilemma: what to play when the usual influx of new titles is absent?
While the temptation to simply wait for the next big thing is ever-present, the opportunity to explore overlooked or previously unplayed gems within one’s own digital collection becomes a more attractive proposition. This year, after achieving Platinum Trophies in 007 First Light and LEGO Batman: Legacy of the Dark Knight, the search for a new engaging experience led to Immortals of Aveum.
A Studio’s Swan Song: The Genesis of Immortals of Aveum
Immortals of Aveum emerged from the ambition of Ascendant Studios, a company founded by veteran developers who had previously contributed to seminal franchises such as Dead Space and Call of Duty. The promise of a new intellectual property helmed by such experienced talent generated considerable anticipation. However, the narrative surrounding the studio took a somber turn; Ascendant Studios ultimately ceased operations after the release of its debut title, making Immortals of Aveum its sole legacy. This unfortunate reality casts a poignant shadow over the game, as players know there will be no sequels or further expansions from this particular development team. The industry’s often brutal economic realities have once again led to the dissolution of a studio with evident talent and vision.
A Spellbinding Shift: The Magic-Infused Combat of Immortals of Aveum
At its core, Immortals of Aveum is a first-person shooter, but it boldly eschews traditional firearms in favor of an intricate and visually spectacular magic system. Players step into the role of Jak, a formidable magic-wielding protagonist tasked with navigating a world teetering on the brink of war. The combat mechanics are the game’s standout feature, offering a refreshing departure from the conventional bullet-hell or tactical shooting experiences.
The gameplay loop revolves around unleashing a diverse array of magical spells, from rapid-fire projectiles akin to an assault rifle to devastating area-of-effect blasts reminiscent of a shotgun. This versatility allows for dynamic and engaging combat encounters. The developers at Ascendant Studios clearly invested significant effort into ensuring the "feel" of magic-based combat was satisfying. The seamless cycling between different "curse" types – effectively the game’s weapon archetypes – enables players to concoct satisfying combos and experience a genuine sense of power, amplified by the visual and auditory feedback of the spellcasting.
The game masterfully blends linear mission structures with larger, explorable open-zone areas. This design choice fosters a sense of progression and discovery. As players delve deeper into the world of Aveum, they are presented with opportunities to explore the environment, engage in thrilling combat, and, crucially, upgrade and experiment with new magical abilities. This constant evolution of Jak’s skillset is a significant driving force, providing a compelling incentive to return to the game session after session.
Unpacking the Gameplay: Exploration, Puzzles, and Metroidvania Echoes
Beyond the core combat, Immortals of Aveum introduces elements that add further depth to its gameplay. As the player progresses, the world of Aveum begins to open up more significantly, presenting environmental puzzles that require clever application of Jak’s magical prowess. These puzzles are generally not overly complex, but they serve as welcome diversions and encourage players to think creatively about their abilities.
Furthermore, the game incorporates subtle Metroidvania-inspired mechanics. There are instances where players will encounter obstacles or pathways that are currently inaccessible due to a lack of a specific magical ability. This foresight on the part of the developers hints at a design that encourages backtracking and a deeper exploration of previously visited areas once new powers are acquired. While not a full-blown Metroidvania, these elements contribute to a more rewarding sense of exploration and progression. The inclusion of mystical challenge rooms also offers additional opportunities to test one’s mastery of the magic system in curated combat scenarios.
The Unfortunate Truths: Story and Graphics in Perspective
It is important to acknowledge the areas where Immortals of Aveum falls short. The narrative, while present, is largely considered throwaway by many critics and players. It serves as a functional framework for the gameplay but rarely offers compelling character development or intricate plot twists. Similarly, while the game features impressive visual effects, particularly concerning the magic, its graphical fidelity in 2026, when this opinion piece is framed, may not hold up to the absolute cutting edge of visual presentation. The character models and environmental detail, while competent, do not represent the pinnacle of technological achievement in the current gaming landscape.
However, where Immortals of Aveum truly shines is in its core gameplay loop. The magic-infused combat, the progression of abilities, and the satisfying feedback mechanisms are where the game delivers a genuinely fantastic experience. For players who prioritize engaging mechanics and a fun, visceral gameplay loop over a profound narrative or photorealistic graphics, Immortals of Aveum offers a highly rewarding experience.
A Welcome Surprise: Accessibility Through PlayStation Plus
One of the most compelling aspects of Immortals of Aveum is its accessibility, particularly for PlayStation 5 owners. The game was offered as a PlayStation Plus Essential title in mid-2024. This means that a significant portion of the PS5 player base may already have the game in their digital libraries, requiring no additional purchase. For those who diligently claim their monthly PS Plus offerings, Immortals of Aveum represents a readily available and enjoyable way to fill the summer gaming gap. This strategic inclusion by Sony has undoubtedly introduced the game to a wider audience who might not have otherwise considered it.
The Verdict: A Solid Summer Distraction, Not a Modern Classic
It is crucial to manage expectations when approaching Immortals of Aveum. While it is a thoroughly enjoyable experience, it is not a groundbreaking title that will redefine the genre or be hailed as an instant classic. The Metacritic score of 69, while perhaps a touch low in the author’s opinion based on personal experience, accurately reflects its standing as a solid, well-executed game rather than a masterpiece.
The game provides approximately 15 hours of engaging gameplay, offering a satisfying adventure that can be completed and moved on from without regret. In the context of a quiet summer gaming period, where the pressure to play the latest releases is absent, Immortals of Aveum proves to be an excellent choice. Its engaging combat, rewarding progression, and surprising accessibility make it a standout option for players seeking an enjoyable diversion.
Community Engagement: Your Thoughts on Immortals of Aveum
The experience of Immortals of Aveum is subjective, and player reception can vary. For those who have delved into the world of Aveum and wielded its magical arsenal, your opinions are valuable. Did you find the magic combat as exhilarating as described? Were you drawn into the exploration and progression? Or did the narrative shortcomings detract from your overall enjoyment? Please share your thoughts and experiences with Immortals of Aveum in the comments below. Your insights contribute to a richer understanding of this unique and often overlooked PS5 title.
Jia Lissa
Siti Muinah
