Quick Facts
| Developer: | Adglobe / Live Wire |
| Publisher: | Binary Haze Interactive |
| Genre: | Dark Fantasy Metroidvania / Action RPG |
| Platforms: | PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S |
| Game Status: | Early Access on PC / Console Release Planned |
| Featured Event: | Gamescom ’24 |
Set decades after the events of Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights, Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist takes players back to the same dark and atmospheric universe, but transports them to a completely different land: the near-fallen geological kingdom known as the Land of Fumes. Underneath its surface lie vast quantities of magical resources that originally propelled the kingdom’s development, leading to the creation of artificial lifeforms called Homunculi. Tragically, toxic vapors leaking from deep underground have driven these machine-like servants into madness, turning them into feral, violent monsters and throwing the nation into chaos.
In this bleak but beautifully hand-drawn world, players control a new, adorable protagonist named Lilac. Awakening in an abandoned underground laboratory with no memories of her past, Lilac is an “Attuner” – a rare individual possessing the mystical power to purify corrupted Homunculi and soothe their tortured souls. She is joined by Nola, a damaged Homunculus ally, as they embark on a journey through ruins, overgrown forests, and decaying medieval towns in search of lost memories, salvation, and a way to save both humans and artificial lifeforms alike.
Gamescom ’24 Impressions: Adorable Appeal and Rich Combat Customization
At Gamescom ’24, we had the pleasure of getting hands-on with the latest playable build of Ender Magnolia. Don’t let Lilac’s incredibly cute character design fool you – beneath the beautiful anime aesthetics and heartbreakingly melancholic Mili-composed soundtrack lies a highly responsive, deeply rewarding, and challenging Metroidvania. The game plays beautifully across PC and all consoles, featuring full text localization in English, Spanish, German, and several other standard languages to ensure players worldwide can fully immerse themselves in the lore.
The standout feature of our demo session was the incredible tactical depth of the combat. In typical Ender fashion, Lilac doesn’t fight directly. Instead, purifying major boss enemies convinces them to join your cause, acting as your weapons. The game features 10 unique boss-weapons, but the developers have expanded on this system massively: each weapon possesses 3 distinct combat styles or modes, resulting in a staggering total of 30 different options! Together with deep customization perks and equippable relics, you can tailor Lilac’s arsenal to fit your personal playstyle perfectly, whether you prefer heavy melee attacks, ranged spells, or high-mobility tactics.
An Enchanting Journey of Redemption
The progression loop in Ender Magnolia feels immensely satisfying. Every purified Homunculus companion doesn’t just grant you new combat moves; they also unlock essential traversal abilities that allow you to reach previously inaccessible areas of the Land of Fumes. The level design is brilliant, offering plenty of secrets, optional bosses, and environmental storytelling that rewards curious explorers who take their time to wander off the beaten path.
Our Verdict: The Melancholic Queen of Metroidvanias Returns
Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a stunning follow-up that easily lives up to the lofty expectations set by its predecessor. With its gorgeous art direction, smooth controls, and unparalleled combat flexibility through its 30 weapon styles, it is a mesmerizing experience from start to finish. Currently making waves in Early Access on Steam, this is an absolute must-play for Metroidvania enthusiasts and dark fantasy fans alike. Prepare to lose your heart to the Land of Fumes!
Curious to see Lilac and her loyal Homunculi allies in action? Watch the official Ender Magnolia trailer below to experience its beautiful gameplay and music:
