Developed by Swedish studio Aftnareld, this action RPG dares to try something fresh: a shape-shifting mechanic that lets you transform into beasts mid-combat. It’s a bold idea, and when it works, it’s exhilarating. But does it fully deliver? I present you the Coridden review.
The most interesting feature of Coridden is its shape-shifting system. You’re not just a human warrior; you’re a beast tamer, able to morph into one of seven creatures, each with unique abilities. Want to pounce on enemies as a panther-like predator? Go for it. Need to smash through boulders as a hulking beast? Done. The variety keeps combat dynamic and forces you to think strategically.
Exploration is another highlight. The planet Heera is a sprawling, post-apocalyptic world filled with lush mountains, rivers, and industrial ruins. Unlike many RPGs that block your path with invisible walls or shallow rivers, Coridden lets you roam freely. Swim upstream as a crocodile, leap across chasms as a nimble predator, or climb cliffs to uncover hidden secrets. It’s a refreshing change from the restrictive worlds of games like Diablo IV or Path of Exile 2.
Unfortunately, Coridden stumbles where it matters most: its story. You play as a member of the Dayal family, navigating a world recovering from a mysterious apocalypse. While the premise has potential, the execution falls flat. The narrative feels like an afterthought, with clichéd quests and a lackluster ending that left me unsatisfied. Even the big reveal about the planet’s downfall feels rushed and underdeveloped.
Technically, the game has some issues. The camera can be a nightmare, especially when it gets blocked by terrain, leaving you fighting blindly. Collision detection is hit-or-miss, with characters occasionally glitching into textures. These problems aren’t game-breaking, but they’re frequent enough to break immersion.
Combat is weird. On one hand, switching between human and beast forms is thrilling, especially when you chain attacks together. On the other, the game is too easy, even on normal difficulty. I rarely felt challenged, and the lack of depth in the skill trees meant I didn’t need to experiment much with builds.
The co-op mode, however, adds a layer of fun. Teaming up with a friend to create a rider-beast duo is a blast, and it’s here that Coridden truly shines. The synergy between players adds a tactical edge that’s missing in solo play.
Coridden is a game of highs and lows. Its shape-shifting mechanics and open-world exploration are innovative and enjoyable, but its weak story, technical flaws, and lack of challenge hold it back. If you’re looking for a co-op RPG with a unique twist, it’s worth a try. But if you’re after a deep, narrative-driven experience, you might want to look elsewhere.
Pros:
- Innovative shape-shifting mechanics
- Stunning, open-world exploration
- Fun co-op gameplay
Cons:
- Forgettable story and weak ending
- Technical issues with camera and collision
- Lack of difficulty and depth in combat
Coridden: Coridden is a promising game that doesn’t quite reach its full potential. I can definitely recommend it if you are willing to play in co-op, but as for single player I'm not so sure. – Alicia
