The Flame in the Flood (2016)

The Flame in the Flood is a strange survival roguelite. Despite an interesting setting and a charming OST, the game lacks in offering a balanced gameplay, mostly becouse of the high incidence of random events.

The Flame in the Flood is a game that puts the players in the centre of a survival context where wits and instincts will be fundamental to get by. Thanks to its universe and crafting system, the game successfully stands out and will keep the players closely involved for a long time, even if some of the design options followed turn out to be somewhat disappointing and the game falls below its full potential.

Ultimately, Flame in the Flood’s greatest success is as an experience; the excellent soundtrack, the complimentary visuals and snippets of plot all make the first few hours of gameplay a harmonious, pleasant experience – were rentals still a thing, this would be a perfect candidate. But alas, it is no longer 1999, and Blockbuster busted their last block a long time ago – and as the hours rack up the numerous minor issues add up to diminish, though not in any way ruin, the experience.

With your canine companion patiently sat wagging its tail as you drift downstream, this uncharted journey through a forgotten post-societal America is one that will long linger in your mind. A tale of hardship and perseverance, The Flame in the Flood: Complete Edition succeeds in pushing you to your limits – standing out as memorable addition to the Nintendo eShop. And, you’ll be surprised at what you will discover along the way.

The Flame in the Flood comes to fill the survival genre gap on Switch. With a unique and enjoyable art style and soundtrack, it is a very brutal experience, that may not hit the target due to a cluttered inventory and crafting systems, but still delivers a poignant adventure.