▲ Recommended
12 hrs
Solaris, developed and published by Cherry Games, is a story-focused indie RPG that embraces the spirit of classic top-down adventures while introducing a distinctive blend of heartfelt storytelling and unsettling mystery. Set in a fantasy world inspired in part by ancient mythology, the game opens with a simple but emotionally resonant premise: a young protagonist leaves home to honor the dying wish of someone dear to them. From that point onward, Solaris gradually unfolds into a journey filled with unusual encounters, hidden truths, and moments that shift seamlessly between warmth and unease. The result is an experience that feels intimate in scope while hinting at something far larger beneath the surface.
One of the game's strongest attributes is its atmosphere. Cherry Games has crafted a colorful pixel-art world that initially appears inviting and whimsical, yet subtle details constantly suggest that not everything is as it seems. Towns are populated with eccentric residents, dialogue frequently carries a touch of humor, and exploration is rewarded with bits of lore that help flesh out the setting. However, the further players progress, the more the game leans into darker themes. This contrast creates a memorable tone that keeps players invested, as every new location feels like it may be hiding another secret waiting to be uncovered.
The narrative is clearly the centerpiece of Solaris. Conversations with NPCs are more than simple quest dispensers; many characters possess their own motivations, personalities, and histories that contribute to the larger world. The writing succeeds in making interactions feel meaningful, and there are several moments where players are encouraged to reflect on the protagonist's choices and relationships. While the current Early Access build only represents the opening chapters of the story, it establishes enough intrigue to leave players curious about where the adventure will ultimately lead. The use of mythological influences also gives Solaris a refreshing identity compared to the more conventional fantasy settings seen throughout the genre.
Gameplay offers a pleasant mixture of exploration, puzzle-solving, and light RPG mechanics. Rather than relying solely on combat, Solaris introduces numerous activities and mini-games to break up the pacing. Players may find themselves navigating mazes, completing timing-based tasks, or solving environmental puzzles as they travel across the world. These additions help maintain variety throughout the experience and contribute to the sense that the game is constantly experimenting with new ideas. Not every mechanic is equally polished, but the willingness to diversify the gameplay loop is commendable and keeps the adventure from becoming repetitive.
Visually, Solaris delivers charming pixel art complemented by a fitting soundtrack that supports both its quieter emotional scenes and its more mysterious moments. The presentation may not push technical boundaries, but it effectively captures the nostalgic appeal of classic RPGs while maintaining its own artistic personality. Performance is generally stable, and the modest hardware requirements make it accessible to a wide audience. As an Early Access title, there are occasional rough edges, including limited content and areas that could benefit from further refinement, but these shortcomings are understandable given the game's current stage of development.
Ultimately, Solaris is an encouraging debut from Cherry Games that demonstrates a clear passion for narrative-driven game design. Its combination of emotional storytelling, atmospheric world-building, and varied gameplay creates an adventure that is easy to become invested in despite its unfinished state. Players looking for a fast-paced action RPG may find its deliberate pacing somewhat slow, but those who appreciate character-driven experiences and mysterious fantasy settings will discover plenty to enjoy. If future updates continue to expand upon the strong foundation already in place, Solaris has the potential to become a standout indie RPG by the time it reaches its full release.
Rating: 7/10
One of the game's strongest attributes is its atmosphere. Cherry Games has crafted a colorful pixel-art world that initially appears inviting and whimsical, yet subtle details constantly suggest that not everything is as it seems. Towns are populated with eccentric residents, dialogue frequently carries a touch of humor, and exploration is rewarded with bits of lore that help flesh out the setting. However, the further players progress, the more the game leans into darker themes. This contrast creates a memorable tone that keeps players invested, as every new location feels like it may be hiding another secret waiting to be uncovered.
The narrative is clearly the centerpiece of Solaris. Conversations with NPCs are more than simple quest dispensers; many characters possess their own motivations, personalities, and histories that contribute to the larger world. The writing succeeds in making interactions feel meaningful, and there are several moments where players are encouraged to reflect on the protagonist's choices and relationships. While the current Early Access build only represents the opening chapters of the story, it establishes enough intrigue to leave players curious about where the adventure will ultimately lead. The use of mythological influences also gives Solaris a refreshing identity compared to the more conventional fantasy settings seen throughout the genre.
Gameplay offers a pleasant mixture of exploration, puzzle-solving, and light RPG mechanics. Rather than relying solely on combat, Solaris introduces numerous activities and mini-games to break up the pacing. Players may find themselves navigating mazes, completing timing-based tasks, or solving environmental puzzles as they travel across the world. These additions help maintain variety throughout the experience and contribute to the sense that the game is constantly experimenting with new ideas. Not every mechanic is equally polished, but the willingness to diversify the gameplay loop is commendable and keeps the adventure from becoming repetitive.
Visually, Solaris delivers charming pixel art complemented by a fitting soundtrack that supports both its quieter emotional scenes and its more mysterious moments. The presentation may not push technical boundaries, but it effectively captures the nostalgic appeal of classic RPGs while maintaining its own artistic personality. Performance is generally stable, and the modest hardware requirements make it accessible to a wide audience. As an Early Access title, there are occasional rough edges, including limited content and areas that could benefit from further refinement, but these shortcomings are understandable given the game's current stage of development.
Ultimately, Solaris is an encouraging debut from Cherry Games that demonstrates a clear passion for narrative-driven game design. Its combination of emotional storytelling, atmospheric world-building, and varied gameplay creates an adventure that is easy to become invested in despite its unfinished state. Players looking for a fast-paced action RPG may find its deliberate pacing somewhat slow, but those who appreciate character-driven experiences and mysterious fantasy settings will discover plenty to enjoy. If future updates continue to expand upon the strong foundation already in place, Solaris has the potential to become a standout indie RPG by the time it reaches its full release.
Rating: 7/10
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