In Yaga, players encounter the legendary witch Baba Yaga, a figure popularized in modern media, for instance, through mentions in properties such as Ant-man and the Wasp and the remake of Hell Boy. Rooted in Eastern European folklore, Baba Yaga is a complex mythological figure, not purely malevolent, and known to be amenable to those who approach her with respect.
Yaga, initially released in the fall of 2019, received a significant update in March 2021 (version 1.1), introducing new storylines (detailed information here). Players assume the role of Ivan, a one-armed village blacksmith. As Ivan, players navigate the game world, collecting resources to forge new items essential for progression. Ivan can also repair items for other characters or sell his crafted goods. As a role-playing game, Yaga allows players to gradually upgrade Ivan’s abilities, a necessity given the increasing difficulty of later missions. Upgrading the hammer is highly recommended to maximize damage output.
The game’s environments feature hand-painted visuals inspired by Russia and Eastern European art. The narrative unfolds based on player choices, leading to multiple distinct endings. A notable aspect of Yaga is its distinctive humor, which incorporates sharp wit and satirical elements. The isometric perspective is reminiscent of games like Diablo III, with gameplay revolving around gathering quests and power-ups in villages and engaging in combat in the surrounding landscapes. The core game mechanics are familiar. While the game presents considerable challenges, particularly in later stages, some deaths may result in seemingly illogical respawn points. For instance, failing a quest to defeat thieves may return the player to the village, requiring them to restart the encounter or even deceive the quest giver. The player’s choices significantly impact the narrative, allowing for both honest and dishonest approaches.
Despite its difficulty in certain areas, a recurring criticism is the somewhat imprecise controls, which can introduce a degree of “sluggishness” that may detract from the overall experience. Nevertheless, Yaga offers a visually appealing, engaging, and substantial experience, further enhanced by the recent major update. It remains a worthwhile title to explore, especially for those who have not yet experienced it.
