When I played Gestalt: Steam & Cinder during Steam Next Fest last year, I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into. I was just interested in trying out every Metroidvania and this fell into that category. When I tell you that I fell in love with the demo of this game, it ended up being my most anticipated Metroidvania of 2024. Developed by Metamorphosis Games, published by Fireshine Games and executive produced by gaming personalities Jesse Cox and Dodger, Gestalt: Steam & Cinder is experienced through the eyes of Aletheia, a strong and powerful woman, an elite mercenary of the Steam City of Canaan, with a take on the art style of retro gaming we all grew to love and an all-new adventure inspired by classic Metroidvanias and action-RPGs.
The story starts with Steam City being on the brink of war, and somehow Aletheia is dragged into this whirlwind journey, where she uncovers long-buried secrets lying at the heart of Canaan and also fights for mankind’s survival. The game takes place in a very steampunk environment, you utilize long-lost tech to attack monsters and machinery. The world is covered in rust and ruin and the Clockwork automata bring on a powerful punch. Discover deep lore while working with allies, new and old. Upgrade your abilities, taking on side jobs make some earnings, and explore the history lost to time on a journey to hunt ancient enigmas threatening the very foundation of Canaan.
What I loved about this game’s demo, was the exploration, the smooth battle system and of course the steampunk environment. I have been most excited for the revolver-firing sword-slashing, all powerful female character and knowing that the game is releasing around the corner. I think that this is the metroidvania fans have been waiting for. A new take on this genre with something original in the mix and Gestalt: Steam & Cinder definitely shows its originality in the lore, the exploration and the beautiful handcrafted world of Steam City. After all, it’s a 2D side
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