Most RPGs fall neatly into one of two categories: fantasy, or science fiction. Maybe a third category for post-apocalyptic wasteland, depending on how the writer in question is doing the categorization. But ELEX, a new action RPG from veteran developer Piranha Bytes, seeks to take all those genres, shove them into a blender, and create a delicious milkshake that will bring all the gamers to the yard.
Piranha Bytes calls it “Science Fantasy.” That feels a little awkward, but is perhaps as good a term as any to describe the blending of magic, technology, and post-disaster wasteland which makes up the world of ELEX. On the world of Magalan, players will encounter magic slinging, sword wielding Berserkers; shotgun and flamethrower armed Outlaws; and laser armed Clerics who can dominate a battlefield with massive War Mechs.
Big, high-tech enemies
Players themselves aren’t left out of the fun. The weapon selection ranges from medieval to futuristic, with everything in between. Throw in magic and a deep character progression system, and it’s likely that players will be able to create whatever character suits their preferences perfectly. Developer Piranha Bytes previously created the Gothic and Risen series, so there’s little doubt that they have a solid pedigree for RPG development. ELEX offers a large open world loaded with quests and exploration. Players can find companions, join factions, and make choices that will influence the direction of all Magalan.
ELEX is out now on PC via Steam, Sony PlayStation 4 consoles, and the Microsoft Xbox One console family. The game is available via digital download, and in both a standard and Collector’s Edition box edition. The Collector’s Edition includes a ten inch figurine of an Alb Mage, a two inch amulet shaped like a combat drone, a cloth map of Magalan, plus art book, soundtrack CD, printed manual, and a Making Of DVD.
