AER Memories of Old

TL;DR

Hey there, fellow gamers, it's Josh from 2tonwaffle.com, and if you've been hanging out with us in the 2TonWaffle community, you know what time it is. We're diving into the first two hours of another Steam gem that might have been collecting dust in your library—or not.

This week, we're taking to the skies with "AER: Memories of Old," and I might be saying that name wrong. Apologies upfront! The game touts itself as an adventure where you transform into a bird to explore a vibrant world of floating islands in the sky and delve into ancient ruins. Sounds intriguing? Let's find out if it lives up to its promises.

First things first, let's do what we always do when we open a new game—check the settings. Yes, I'm one of those gamers who believe a solid options menu shows that the developer cares about player experience. With AER, you can invert your camera, adjust video settings up to 1920 full screen, and tweak audio levels. It's pretty standard but functional. Nothing groundbreaking, but it gets the job done.

Alright, onto that first flight. From the get-go, the game sets the mood with an atmospheric soundtrack that complements its visually enchanting world. Imagine being enveloped by a tapestry of vibrant colors and dreamy landscapes that immediately call you to explore. The art style is polygon-rich and cell-shaded, simplistic yet charmingly beautiful, pushing you to forget the need for those ultra-realistic textures we sometimes get obsessed with.

As you start your journey, you're plunged into a backstory of a world torn apart by an ancient divide, leaving small islands suspended in the sky. You, the pilgrim, need to visit three ancient temples to uncover secrets and possibly save the world. No pressure, right?

I have to mention how liberating it feels to transform into a bird. The controls are smooth, and the freedom of flight is genuinely something else. There's something incredibly cathartic about soaring through the sky, gliding past clouds, and gazing at the expansive horizon, a reminder of how video games can sometimes perfectly capture the essence of freedom. There is a slight adjustment period as you transition from walking to flight. The controls can be changed to be inverted when in flight mode to help with this.

It wouldn't be a Josh review without some platforming antics, right? AER introduces its fair share of puzzles, often tied to the ruins, requiring you to use your wits and the environment to progress. They're intuitive enough to keep you engaged without pulling your hair out, and that's a good thing. Who wants random bald spots? Not me.

And yes, I discovered firsthand there's no fall damage—a refreshing change unless you refuse to shift into bird form and plummet off an island, which will immerse yourself in a never ending white screen. Had to force quite the game as no combination of buttons presses seemed to get past it. Could be a bug or a one time thing but, wasn’t sure at the time. Remember: patience is key. Let’s just say my experiment with gravity wasn’t the smartest move.

Anyone nostalgic for the days of loading screens will find a buddy here. Though short, they exist, but it's all part of the retro charm this game radiates.

While flying, landing at various locations isn't just visually rewarding but ties back to the mythology of the world. Each new stopping point enriches the lore, weaving legends, fairy tales, and a tapestry of cultures seemingly inspired by the rich stories from many cultures found throughout the world. It's immersive and adds layers to the mysteries you’re invited to unravel.

All in all, does "AER: Memories of Old" earn a spot in your must-play collection? For its charming visuals, melodic tunes, and the sheer joy of flight, I'm giving it 3 out of 5 waffles. It's a reminder of how simplicity can be bliss, a relaxing journey filled with discovery that doesn't try to be more than it is. It's definitely a yes to play.

Well, that's it for this first dive. Remember, whether it’s the expansive skies of AER or another hidden gem, keep exploring. And if you find yourself curious about anything game-related, you know where to find us. I'm Josh, and I'll catch you on the flip side, floating among the clouds.

Until next time, game on!

FAQ

1. What is "AER: Memories of Old" about?
   It's an adventure game where you explore a world of floating islands, transforming into a bird to uncover ancient secrets.
2. How is the visual style of the game?
   The game features a charming, polygon-rich, and cell-shaded art style that's simple yet beautiful.
3. Are there many puzzles in the game?
   Yes, the game includes intuitive puzzles tied to ancient ruins, offering engaging problem-solving without being overly difficult.
4. What type of music can players expect?
   The soundtrack is atmospheric and complements the game's dreamy visuals, enhancing the immersive experience.
5. How does the flight mechanic work?
   The flight controls are smooth, offering a sense of freedom as you glide through the skies.
6. s there any fall damage?
   No, there's no fall damage, but failing to transform into a bird off an island may bring up a 'YOU DIED' screen.
7. Are there loading screens in the game?
   Yes, there are short loading screens, adding a retro charm to the game.
8. Would you recommend playing this game for relaxation?
   Absolutely, it's perfect for those seeking a relaxing escape filled with myth and exploration.
9. What platforms is the game available on?
   The game is available on Steam and other platforms supporting digital distribution.
10. What is the overall rating given by Josh?
    Josh rates it 4 out of 5 waffles for its simplicity, visual allure, and engaging gameplay.