Ode

Ode for PC is another experimental platform game developed by Ubisoft Reflections, an Ubisoft studio based in Newcastle upon Tyne. The authors are also responsible for a number of smaller eye-catching titles such as Grow Home, Grow Up, or Atomega.

Plot

The story of Ode focuses on Joy – a blue star summoned from the heavens by the mysterious narrator. Having responded to the call, Joy finds herself traversing a mysterious planet full of strange music gardens filled with beings, plants, and sounds.

Mechanics

The game is characteristic for its artistic values and focuses on seamless exploration of various atmospheric locations. Ode lacks any tutorials, tips or markers leading the player to his next objective. Instead, the authors encourage slow and in-depth exploration of the unique world, which offers synesthesia of sound and visuals similar to the one encountered in Proteus.

Ode for PC offers an incredible array of sounds. All the game’s gardens are inhabited by various creatures, plants and other lifeforms, each generating unique sounds. At first, Joy encounters simple anemones that emit single sounds, but further along the way, the player encounters plants or beings that serve as sources of more complex sounds: drum, bass, and others. Our journey often sees us create a personalized music track that help us reach the end of the level.

In terms of gameplay, the game is rather simple. Aside from movement and jumping, Joy can throw items or carry them with her. These basic abilities are used to overcome various puzzles and simple riddles. The heroine also collects stars that increase the intensity of the colours and sounds of the world around her.

Technical Aspects

The game attempts to offer a synesthesia of sound and graphics. At first, both elements may seem be a bit mediocre, but as the game progresses we are treated to more and more complicated audio-visual installations.

Last updated on December 5, 2017