Empyreal (PS5) | REVIEW | An Ambitious Indie Action RPG

Developed by Silent Games, a small but ambitious UK-based indie studio founded in 2018, and published by Secret Mode, Empyreal is a sci-fi action RPG that aims to deliver a complex and challenging experience. Set on an uncharted planet, the game casts players as an elite mercenary hired to aid a struggling expedition tasked with unraveling the secrets of a colossal Monolith, a structure built by a long-lost civilization. The plot follows Morys, an aging figure burdened by a generational quest to conquer the Monolith, passing the torch to the player to uncover its mysteries, which promise revelations about humanity’s place in the universe.

Empyreal’s gameplay revolves around a loot-driven action RPG loop with soft roguelike elements, focusing on dungeon crawling through handcrafted levels within the Monolith’s Quadrants. Players choose from three weapon archetypes including the Glaive (fast, agile), Mace & Shield (defensive, stun-focused), and Cannon (ranged, ammo-switching) with each offering distinct playstyles. With the new update a lot has been improved upon including a laundry list of gameplay adjustments, weapon adjustments, limit break tweaks, and quality of life changes. Things like status effects are lessened, and even a shortened stun time is added to the mix of fixes for a less abusive experience. There's also been changes to the loot economy, adding extra value to limit broken gear.

The game’s Cartogram system allows players to select difficulty levels with randomized enemies, loot, and modifiers, adding strategic variety. Exploration is rewarded with hidden paths and secrets, but the absence of traditional leveling or stat growth ties progression solely to gear, limiting build diversity. Asynchronous multiplayer features, like trading Cartograms or gifting gear to other players’ ghosts, add a sense of community, though the lack of true co-op feels like a missed opportunity. The Presentation ...

Empyreal is a mixed bag, with its visuals being a standout despite some shortcomings. Powered by Unreal Engine 5, the Monolith’s biomes are gorgeously detailed, from alien landscapes to intricate ruins, creating an immersive atmosphere. Enemy designs are occasionally unique, but the overreliance on bombastic cinematic animations for attacks feels like a distraction from the combat. The art direction tries to evoke FromSoftware-style environmental storytelling, but it lacks the depth to fully captivate in a similar fashion. The soundtrack is underwhelming, with generic synths and ambient tracks that set a tense mood but fail to leave a lasting impression, save for one jarring camp track that mimics a loose audio cable. Sound effects are punchy, and voice acting is serviceable, though often stiff, with Isolda’s lively performance being a notable exception. With the latest update there have been some changes to sound effects improving upon overall quality. The Verdict ...

Empyreal is an ambitious indie action RPG that shines in moments but struggles to stand out in a grand way story-wise. It's intriguing premise and stunning environments are complimentary to an improving combat system despite it's shortcomings, and though the loop might feel a bit repetitive the rewarding increased limit broken gear value keeps the grind worthwhile. The Cartogram system and exploration offer some replayability as well. For loot-grinding enthusiasts or diehard ARPG fans, there’s enough challenge and customization to warrant a look, especially at a discount. However, those seeking a bold, story-rich experience may find this expedition forgettable. Empyreal is worth a cautious try for patient players considering the developers' continued support.