Just as grief presents new challenges, we learn new tools to cope with the obstacles.
Metroidvania gameplay broken down into acts.
Mask mechanic provides interesting opportunities for puzzles.
Tales of Kenzera: ZAU blends the struggles of overcoming grief with metroidvania gameplay.
Beautiful level and character design.
Visual stuttering and lighting issues on Xbox Series X.
Character becomes temporarily stun-locked after closing menus.
(Image credit: Windows Central)
“I took the biggest risk of my life and threw everything that I had at making a game.
A piece of art that honored him.
An ode to the people that we have loved and lost.”
(Image credit: Windows Central)
Salim said at 2023 The Game Awards, as he choked back the cracks in his voice.
“I hope you like it.”
Salim’s emotion at that reveal struck me in a way that other game reveals have not.
(Image credit: Windows Central)
While playing Tales of Kenzera: ZAU, that experience continued to flood back.
What is Tales of Kenzera: ZAU?
The game follows Zau, a young Shaman grappling with the recent loss of his father.
Heartache and grief form the basis of a relatable tale mixed with Bantu mythology.
Our protagonist, Zau, is deeply impacted by his father’s recent passing when the game begins.
In grappling with that second conundrum, Zau runs off to find Kalunga, God of the Dead.
Drawing on inspiration from Bantu mythology, Kalunga becomes a guide for Zau in his time of need.
(Image credit: Windows Central)
It’s this juxtaposition between exploration and the emotional journey that makes Tales of Kenzera special.
There’s also an element of acceptance that sometimes you just aren’t ready to get beyond a barrier.
Daring to go off the beaten path doesn’t just reward the player with new abilities, either.
(Image credit: Windows Central)
Additional story context can also be found with exploration.
It oozes passion and heart from every aspect of its surface.
This issue was persistent on the console andPCversions of the game.
(Image credit: Windows Central)
This also expanded to areas with noticeable light rays coming through windows or trees.
Tales of Kenzera: ZAU review Should you buy it?
That is a special sort of tale that gets glossed over all too often on its own.
Zau is challenged not only in his grief but in his role as a Shaman for his tribe.
I would recommend playing on PC as it seems to be the better option for now.
There is no indication that it will be available as part ofXbox Game Passon day one.
Also available:$20 (Steam)|$18 (Epic Games Store)|$20 PlayStation
