Finding a good role-playing game is one thing; but finding one that retains that level of excellence while, at the same time, doing something groundbreaking with its gameplay…well, that’s something else entirely. Not many RPG’s take chances these days when it comes to a product outside the box. And that, friends, is where Lab Zero Games’ Indivisiblestands out.
Previously released for other consoles and PC, the game received a surprise release on Nintendo Switch, even throwing the development team for a loop. But it turned out that they had nothing to worry about, as the game retains every bit of its quality as the other ports. In fact, being able to take it on the go just might be the ticket for hardcore RPG fans looking for something off the beaten path.
A Unique Girl With a Talent For Gathering Allies
The game revolves around Ajna, a woman consistently getting battle training from her father. In fact, that’s how the game begins, before an evil warlord by the name of Ravannavar shows up to wreak havoc. In a flash, he destroys her village and kills her pop, but manages to leave behind one of his warriors – who ends up in her head.
It turns out that she can “absorb” these special helpers as part of her battle group, without them running alongside her. However, in the heat of battle, she can call upon them to appear out of the blue and fight, making for a great group-based experience.
Combining inventive role-playing battles and typical, well-polished platforming, Indivisible pulls off a nice trick. But we’ll talk more about that with the gameplay.
Everyone Gets In On the Fight
The gameplay revolves around a real-time battle system, where each character has button prompts that you can press to unleash attacks on foes. At the same time, you can also hold down their respective buttons to enter a defensive stance, though some boss enemies will certainly test how well you do with it. There are also special attacks, which are quite useful against those with a somewhat larger energy bar.
This is a splendid system, and it combines with the game’s platforming segments rather well. Here, Ajna runs around, using wall jumps and other moves to get to her destination, while occasionally engaging in a real-time strike to prompt a new battle with an enemy. Though not entirely exciting, these segments frame up nicely with the fights to create a worthy, well-rounded experience.
There’s something here for everyone, even those who wouldn’t normally get into role-playing games. And the fact you can grow with your characters and make them more powerful over time – a nice touch considering the odds you’re up against – is pretty cool as well.
A Strong Shift To the Switch
With the developer not even knowing about Indivisible’s sudden release on the Switch (did 505 Games not send the memo…?), there were concerns that the port may not quite be up to snuff. However, worry not, as the game looks just as good on this platform as it does the other.
One huge benefit is the game’s gorgeous art style. Granted, this is the same studio that worked wonders on Skullgirls; so with that in mind, it may not entirely be a surprise. Still, the gorgeous colors, beautiful attention to detail and stunning animations are a delight to look at, whether on the go or playing at home. The battles can be a little hectic, but the same could really be said for any RPG, so it goes with the territory.
Indivisible also features charming music to go along with the action, along with voicework that’s nothing short of top-notch. Each character has something to contribute here; and actually gives you a reason to stick around, rather than skipping over everything (though you still can if you want). It’s a journey that’s well worth the time, from beginning to end.
Don’t Be Divisive, Get This Game
In the end, Indivisible has proven its worth on other platforms. And we’re happy to report that it does so on the Switch as well. Despite no one really expecting its release, Lab Zero Games’ work continues to shine with its innovative gameplay, sparkling presentation and well-told story. Even those that aren’t into this sort of game should find something to like – and that’s hardly something we’d call dividing. Pick it up, you won’t be sorry.
RATING: 9/10
A splendid action/role-playing tour-de-force, Indivisible puts on a show on Nintendo Switch.
