Cococucumber, a well-known indie studio, has been making a name for itself with unique and accessible throwback games. Their latest offering, Echo Generation, is part of their self-proclaimed ‘Voxel Trilogy’ and brings a fresh perspective to the adventure/RPG genre. Despite being initially exclusive to Xbox, Switch owners can now delve into this charming and nostalgic title.
Set in the ’90s in the small town of Maple Valley, the game follows a group of suburban kids on their bizarre summer adventure. Drawing inspiration from classic titles like EarthBound and the works of Ron Gilbert and Tim Schafer, Echo Generation presents a quirky and humorous take on the RPG genre. As players navigate through the town, they encounter strange occurrences like missing children, a serial killer, and even a crashed spaceship in a cornfield.
One of the standout features of Echo Generation is its distinctive voxel-powered visuals, reminiscent of lovingly crafted dioramas. The animations of characters and enemies seamlessly blend into the environment, creating a unique and engaging aesthetic. While the game shines in the visual department, it falls short in its gameplay mechanics, blending adventure game elements with RPG mechanics but failing to stand out in either aspect.
Combat in Echo Generation is turn-based, with an emphasis on precise timing and button prompts similar to the Mario & Luigi series. Players can choose from a variety of skills and abilities, each requiring different input variations. The game introduces a decent enemy variety, from bad-mouthed raccoons to screen-filling bosses, adding a layer of challenge to the battles. However, the need for grinding and the uneven difficulty spikes can make progression feel tedious at times.
Despite its flaws, Echo Generation manages to captivate players with its immersive world and engaging atmosphere. From exploring the streets of Maple Valley to facing terrifying bosses like the ‘Prom Queen’ in the closed high school, the game offers a mix of lighthearted moments and chilling encounters. The game’s exceptional aesthetic and sound design strike a balance between nostalgia and eeriness, further enhancing the overall experience.
Echo Generation may not reinvent the wheel when it comes to gameplay mechanics, but its unique visual style and captivating storytelling make it a worthwhile experience for fans of nostalgic RPGs. While the game has its shortcomings in terms of progression and combat balance, its charm and unpredictability set it apart from other titles in the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned RPG player or a newcomer looking for a fresh take on the genre, Echo Generation offers a blend of nostalgia and innovation that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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