Review: Mutant Year Zero – Road to Eden

My introduction to role-playing games occurred when my friend Mats and I encountered two older acquaintances. We were around 10 years old at the time and proceeded to create our first Drakar och Demoner character. While the initial iteration of the role-playing game Mutant debuted in 1984, I believe I encountered it around ’89 with the release of its updated version. We dedicated countless hours to playing Mutant. A particularly compelling aspect was its setting: a post-catastrophe future Sweden. This thematic element is a significant reason for my long-standing appreciation of the Fallout series (most recently Fallout 76), given the notable similarities it shares with Mutant.

Therefore, upon viewing the trailer for Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden this spring, I was immediately captivated. While the initial trailer lacked gameplay footage, I remained optimistic that the final product would fulfill the promise of its cinematic presentation. Furthermore, a successful launch would be beneficial for the distributor, Funcom, particularly after the problematic release of Conan Exiles earlier in the year.

https://youtu.be/SRhR6n76dBc

The game is a strategy title that, like the original Fallout and Fallout 2, employs an isometric perspective. However, Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden allows for camera rotation, ensuring comprehensive environmental awareness. Combat is turn-based, emphasizing strategic pre-engagement positioning and utilizing the environment to your advantage. The graphics are exceptionally well-rendered, incorporating numerous Swedish cultural references, such as ambulances, police vehicles, and road signage. The environments exhibit meticulous design, complemented by capable voice acting and an evocative musical score.

Players control a trio of characters, each possessing unique abilities and gaining new mutations through experience. The game involves acquiring new weapons and protective gear throughout your journey in this reimagined Sweden. I found myself quickly engrossed, with the strategic elements being particularly appealing. This aspect was notably absent in Fallout 3 upon its release. Moreover, the core mechanics of stealth and tactical positioning are reminiscent of another personal favorite, Commandos, which operates on a similar strategic foundation.

What are the drawbacks? There are a few aspects that slightly detract from the overall experience. While the game’s scope is understandably smaller than that of titles like Fallout 76, with its expansive open-world map, the environments can feel somewhat limited. Additionally, navigation between different “levels” can occasionally be confusing, sometimes leading to unintended backtracking. Selecting “Travel” initiates a loading sequence, and an incorrect selection necessitates retracing steps and enduring another loading screen. This is a minor inconvenience, but a noticeable one.

Another minor issue arises when a previously cleared area does not repopulate with enemies, and the player’s squad remains underpowered for engaging the next tier of adversaries. This creates a potential stalemate, forcing players to confront significantly stronger opponents, leading to predictable setbacks. However, overcoming these challenges results in a genuinely rewarding sense of accomplishment. Furthermore, while the developers, The Bearded Ladies based in Trollhättan, invested considerable effort in the impressive cinematic trailer, the in-game cutscenes are presented as drawn stills. This stylistic choice, presumably dictated by budgetary constraints, is noticeable.

In conclusion, I hold Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden in high regard, a sentiment reflected in my overall rating. It has been some time since a game has so thoroughly captivated my attention. The setting is compelling, the voice acting is commendable, and the strategic gameplay mechanics are a welcome return. Despite the aforementioned minor drawbacks, this title is highly recommended for strategy enthusiasts, role-playing game nostalgists, and anyone interested in experiencing the life of a mutated duck in a futuristic Gothenburg and Kungälv.