
My time with Alruna: End of History kicks off with quotes from Sappho of Lesbos ("In the crooks of your body, I find my religion") and Post Malone ("Choir of angels. Euthansisa.") side by side. This is a Metroidvania that makes an incredible, bold impression within seconds, before even playing the game itself – a statement of intent that it delivers on and, really, all you need to know.
Developed by Neckbolt, this is a full sequel to Alruna and the Necro-Industrialists, which came out last year. Alruna: End of History carries on the immaculate retro vibes, nature versus industry theming, and very extra-but-sparse philosophical dialogue (which feels a bit tongue in cheek, even nodding towards the likes of Linkin Park), with some tweaks to the action but, most importantly – is now in widescreen. The art style is much the same, but the wider view does a lot, really giving more space for the vibrant color palettes to pop, and allowing each screen more room to craft puzzle and platform challenges with additional clarity. It might seem like a simple change, but when it comes to designing two-dimensional rooms it's a legitimately big change.