Don’t forget to enter our Kona II: Brume competition, which ends on October 27th!
In Kona II: Brume, detective Carl Faubert’s story continues in the Canadian wilderness. This installment takes us to a mining village in Northern Québec in 1970. An enigmatic and unnatural fog has enveloped the region, concealing both allies and adversaries. As Carl investigates, he uncovers unsettling discoveries: frozen corpses posed as if flash-frozen. Your task is to explore the area, gather clues, and unravel the mysteries surrounding the fog and the disturbing events plaguing this place.
Having not played the original Kona (released in 2016), I cannot offer a direct comparison between the two titles. This review will therefore focus on my experience with Kona II: Brume as a standalone game.
Kona II: Brume establishes a compelling atmosphere from the outset, quickly conveying a sense of unease. The game mechanics, including photography for journal entries and clue collection, are intuitive. While weapons are available, ammunition is scarce, encouraging strategic resource management. Puzzles are integrated into the environment, with solutions often found nearby or through logical deduction.
Kona II: Brume evokes a similar feeling to Shivers, released in 1995. The common threads include a supernatural mystery, significant time spent in a large mansion, and the aftermath of a tragic event. The game’s strongest aspects are its sense of mystery and its effective sound design, which maintains a constant level of suspense.
A significant drawback of Kona II: Brume is the restricted jumping mechanic. While jumping is possible outdoors, it is disabled indoors. This limitation can be frustrating, as minor obstacles block progress, forcing unnecessary detours. This design choice feels like an oversight, diminishing the player experience.
Navigating the environment, especially within the larger buildings, can also be challenging. The similarity of the corridors often led to disorientation, requiring extensive backtracking before discovering previously unnoticed paths. This lack of clear direction can detract from the overall experience.
In conclusion, Kona II: Brume is a commendable mystery game that encourages exploration and problem-solving. The engaging narrative and immersive atmosphere are compelling. However, the limitations on jumping and the potential for navigational confusion slightly detract from the overall rating.
A review code for this title was provided by Plaion. The provision of review materials does not influence editorial objectivity.
