Exo One Review

In the vast expanse of space, where the boundaries of imagination are as limitless as the stars, Exo One takes players on an extraordinary voyage that transcends traditional gaming experiences. Developed by Exbleative and published by All in! Games, this unique title on the PS5 invites players to pilot a mysterious craft on humanity’s first journey beyond the solar system. Combining breathtaking visuals with innovative gameplay mechanics, Exo One offers an interplanetary adventure that is as much about exploration and wonder as it is about the thrill of discovery.

Set against the backdrop of alien worlds and cosmic phenomena, Exo One stands out with its minimalist design and intuitive controls, allowing players to immerse themselves fully in the act of traversal. The game’s focus is on the journey itself, creating a meditative experience that emphasizes fluid movement and the awe-inspiring beauty of the universe. This review will delve into how Exo One captures the essence of space exploration and delivers a serene yet exhilarating experience that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

Setting and Story

The narrative of Exo One is as enigmatic as the universe it explores. Players take on the role of a pilot guiding an alien craft through a series of exotic and visually striking planets, each with its own unique landscapes and atmospheric conditions. The story unfolds through a combination of environmental storytelling and sparse, cryptic transmissions that hint at a deeper mystery behind the journey. This approach to storytelling allows players to piece together the narrative at their own pace, creating a sense of intrigue and personal discovery.

The setting of Exo One is a collection of beautifully rendered alien worlds, each offering a distinct visual and sensory experience. From desolate, windswept plains to vibrant, luminescent forests, the diversity of environments keeps the journey fresh and captivating. The seamless transitions between planets and the use of real-time weather effects add to the immersion, making each new location feel alive and dynamic.

The game’s minimalist narrative leaves much to the player’s imagination, encouraging them to draw their own conclusions about the nature of the journey and the purpose of the craft. This open-ended storytelling is complemented by the hauntingly atmospheric sound design, which further enhances the sense of mystery and wonder. The sparse dialogue and ambient sounds create a contemplative atmosphere, allowing players to lose themselves in the vastness of space and the beauty of the worlds they explore.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Exo One distinguishes itself with its innovative gameplay mechanics, centered around the alien craft’s unique physics-based movement. Players must master the art of gravity manipulation, using it to build momentum and glide gracefully across varied terrains. The craft can shift between different modes, each suited to particular environmental conditions. For instance, the rolling mode allows for rapid movement across flat surfaces, while the gliding mode is perfect for traversing large gaps and navigating aerial obstacles.

The controls are intuitive and responsive, providing a satisfying sense of fluidity and freedom. The challenge lies in maintaining momentum and finding the optimal paths through the landscapes, creating a gameplay loop that is both relaxing and engaging. As players become more adept at controlling the craft, they unlock new abilities and techniques that add depth to the traversal mechanics.

Environmental puzzles are seamlessly integrated into the exploration, requiring players to use their skills creatively to progress. These puzzles are not overly complex but are designed to enhance the sense of discovery and immersion. The absence of traditional combat or enemies shifts the focus entirely to the joy of movement and the beauty of the surroundings, making Exo One a refreshing departure from more action-oriented titles.

Multiplayer and Replayability

Exo One is primarily a single-player experience, focusing on the personal journey of exploration and discovery. However, the game includes features that enhance replayability and extend its appeal beyond the initial playthrough. Players are encouraged to revisit planets to discover hidden secrets and unlock additional lore that adds depth to the narrative.

The dynamic weather and day-night cycles on each planet also contribute to the game’s replayability. Different conditions can open up new pathways or reveal previously hidden areas, encouraging players to explore each environment thoroughly. The minimalist narrative invites multiple interpretations, making subsequent playthroughs an opportunity to uncover new insights and perspectives.

While Exo One does not feature traditional multiplayer modes, its serene and meditative nature lends itself well to shared experiences. Players can compare their journeys, share discoveries, and discuss their interpretations of the narrative, fostering a sense of community and shared wonder. The game’s focus on exploration and personal reflection makes it a unique and memorable experience that players will want to revisit and share with others.

Graphics and Sound

The visual presentation of Exo One is nothing short of breathtaking, with each planet rendered in stunning detail. The use of colour, light, and texture creates a series of alien landscapes that are both beautiful and otherworldly. The game’s graphics take full advantage of the PS5’s capabilities, delivering a visually rich and immersive experience that captivates from start to finish.

Sound design plays a crucial role in enhancing the atmosphere and emotional impact of the game. The ambient sounds and subtle musical cues create a sense of tranquillity and awe, perfectly complementing the visual splendour of the environment. The minimalist approach to sound and music allows players to focus on the journey and the sensations of movement, deepening the immersive experience.

The combination of high-quality graphics and evocative sound design creates an atmosphere that is both serene and exhilarating. The visual and auditory elements work together to draw players into the world of Exo One, making each moment of exploration a sensory delight.

Final Thoughts

Exo One is a masterful blend of innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and atmospheric sound design. It offers a unique and meditative take on the space exploration genre. The game’s emphasis on fluid movement and environmental interaction creates a deeply satisfying experience that transcends traditional gaming boundaries.

The minimalist narrative, rich with mystery and open to interpretation, invites players to embark on a personal journey of discovery and reflection. The beautiful and varied alien landscapes, combined with the intuitive and responsive controls, ensure that each moment in Exo One is a joy to experience.

For those seeking a game that challenges the conventional norms of action and narrative, Exo One provides a refreshing and deeply engaging adventure. It’s a testament to the power of simplicity and the beauty of exploration, making it a standout title on the PS5.

We prepared this review with a digital copy of Exo One for the PS5 version provided by Evolve PR.