Despite being its first ever video game production, Ember Lab wowed the masses with its breakout hit Kena: Bridge of Spirits. Released in late 2021 to critical acclaim, the indie title had all the flair, polish and ambition of a big budget triple A studio game, making it a standout experience in an already crowded market. The game went on to earn several Game of the Year nominations, as well as winning the top prize of being dubbed «Best Indie Game». Needless to say, it has been a smashing success for Ember Lab.
From the moment it was first announced, many players pointed out the tonal and visual similarities between Kena: Bridge of Spirits and Nintendo's own fantasy inspired series, The Legend of Zelda. Considering that Ember Lab made a CGI short based on Majora's Mask just a few years earlier, it's easy to see why that game may have had an influence on the studio. However, the connection stems even further than this, as Majora's Mask may have had a strong influence on the narrative and thematic depth based upon how Kena: Bridge of Spirits ultimately plays out. This is not to suggest that Ember Lab ripped off Nintendo's work, but rather paid a touching tribute to it and proved that imitation is often the most sincere form of flattery.
What to Expect From Indie Games in 2022
Much of the adventure in Kena: Bridge of Spirits tasks the player with exploring a tucked away mystical village, helping lost souls move from this life to the next. Kena is known as a «spirit guide» and armed with a magical staff and the help of small creatures called The Rot, she embarks on this supernatural quest, facing off against demonic enemies along the way. More specific plot details will be left out to avoid spoilers, however the game as a
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