Raji: An Ancient Epic Reviews
Verdict: Good Raji: An Ancient Epic proves it is worthy of its title. It is often easy to think of an indie title as good looking; or with masterful platforming segments in levels that make sense given the story. However, it is extremely rare for an indie title to have all those facets combined in a single package. At its core, gameplay may be uninteresting, but this entire facet allows for something way more important: world building. Raji also finds an incredible boon in its excellent voice over work and sound design, which is especially true for supporting characters like Durgu. Where Raji absolutely shines, however, is in its exceptional narrative. It combines level design and storytelling in beautiful ways that not only teaches, but also moves the plot forward. Raji: An Ancient Epic may not be a big triple-A hit, but it most certainly is a title that deserves to be experienced.
What Raji: An Ancient Epic’s most notable point to take in is the limited personnel. Of course this debut title has a few cracks in the pavement, given the circumstance, but so was my audition tape to play guitar in a garage rock band. It’s exciting to see India make moves in hopes to secure relevancy in a growing global market. Support the artists here and purchase this game, so we can hopefully experience what Nodding Heads Games can accomplish under a full-scale operation.
The game plays similarly to the original God of Wars with fixed moving cameras over a 3D world, although the camera feels incredibly far away making Raji almost a speck on the map. Combat is a standard affair with normal/heavy attacks and the dodge button, but Raji can also pull out some Prince of Persia moves with her wall jumps and swinging around poles to attack the beasts that show up.
While this statement may inspire some eye-rolling for some people out there as a life-long gamer I deeply appreciate attempts to expand inclusiveness in video games...
Few 3D action games feature the level of finesse and originality that Raji: An Ancient Epic boasts and it's quite captivating, too.
Great art and an intriguing story set a strong premise for Raji: An Ancient Epic. It's backed by some impressive experimental gameplay and combat that has a few flaws, but it is far from broken. Playing as Raji is a joy and many Prince of Persia fans may see some things they liked from that series reflected here. Exploring the mythology and beliefs presented is an experience that only this has provided - a unique premise, if you will. It's in need of some polish but it feels like the developer realised its dream and with this commendable effort it's a shining start for the team. Raji comes recommended to all players looking for a new mythological action title!
It's worth noting the developer announced a bugfix update is in the works, but tread with caution if you decide to buy-in beforehand. But all that said, those demerits weren't enough to sour my experience with Raji: An Ancient Epic. The well-worn game structure is adorned with a decorative style that's wholly unique in video games; a striking soundtrack with heavy sitar notes and an ancient Hindu history lesson compel you to see this personal story of sister and brother to its conclusion. Even with performance caveats in mind, there's a lot of beauty to uncover here if you give it a chance.
Raji tells us a lovely tale embellished with Indian mythology; a tale that I enjoy listening to, watching and being a part of, except for a few flaws that leave a bitter taste in the mouth.
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For a debut effort, ... it's proof that Indian studios with the right push can deliver titles for major consoles, and not be stuck in the free-to-play mobile mess that dominates Indian game development.
Nodding Head Games clearly have a lot of passion for the subject material, and you can see that they definitely put a lot of heart and soul into Raji. With more experience and a better budget, they could probably make a game that is every bit as fun to actually play as it is to immerse yourself in. The abrupt ending teases at a potential sequel, so hopefully they’ll have another chance to improve upon what they have created thus far.
Raji: An Ancient Epic manages to bring a distinctly Indian perspective to a conventional action-adventure spectacle.
Nodding Head Games' Raji: An Ancient Epic tells an interesting story but is simply not be functional enough to enjoy.
The theme, gameplay, and the excellent visuals in Raji: An Ancient Epic make for a fun session every time you fire it up. The limitations are minimal, and the very few critiques I might have are not major detractors. This is a good game and worth a playthrough.
Raji: An Ancient Epic is an action, adventure platforming puzzler that draws you in with its deep storyline built upon the foundation of Hindu and Balinese mythology. The action elements are diverse, challenging, and fun. While there are slower story focused interspaced between the action it's in these lulls that players can enjoy the beautiful aesthetics. With light exploration features and jumping/platforming mechanics that pay homage to the early Prince Of Persia games, you'll find a lot to like in this cultural gem!
Hot on the trail of the demons who kidnapped her little brother, brave Raji finds herself drawn into an adventure where the fate of the world hangs in the balance. Can you help her and her divine patrons thwart the plans of the evil Mahabalasura in this beautiful celebration of Indian culture and mythology?
Raji: An Ancient Epic is a strong debut for Nodding Head Games but it's just a shame there isn't more of it. It brings a respectful take on Hindu and Balinese mythology, one which has a strong narrative hook that invests you in Raji's personal adventure whilst offering enjoying gameplay. Though it suffers from some unfortunate technical issues, this is one journey we still recommend experiencing, especially if you're a fan of the genre.
A beautiful and wonderfully executed story, Raji: An Ancient Epic is definitely an enjoyable way to spend a few hours of your time. Its combat mechanics are functional and fine, but rarely stray into the realm of “fun.”
Raji: An Ancient Epic is an incredible adventure that carries the soul of the famed Prince of Persia. Although there are some technical issues, its intriguing narrative, immense world and core gameplay will keep you hooked.
Unparalleled presentation and atmosphere spoiled by unwieldly combat and clumsy level design. The most memorable moments happen when your hands are off the controls.
Raji: An Ancient Epic is an incredible experience delivered through a short and vibrant story. You can feel the passion and the talent from the developers come through in each moment of the game. Though it may not be as polished around the edges as I'd like, the issues do not outweigh the high points.