Cions of Vega is the latest in the continuing stream of console ports for Tonguç Bodur’s adventure games. However, seemingly taking a leaf out of Final Fantasy‘s book, it’s not actually the chronologically newest title from the developer. Cions of Vega originally released on PC back in 2021, prior to The Redress of Mira. Exactly why eastasiasoft has chosen to publish select title from Bodur’s catalogue out of order is a mystery, but as this Cions of Vega review will attest, it means very little to players new and old.
Playing as Kenny, you’re a father in search of his runaway daughter. Venturing into the woods with your brother, Logan, you’ll get the backstory and setting delivered via a one-way conversation. Logan is both insightful and free with his inner monologue. Cions of Vega stands out from other Bodur games thanks to the unique addition. You’re not having visions akin to The Dead Tree of Ranchiuna, nor are you learning the story through glowing orbs or flashbacks. You have a companion. And one that actually means something.
Cions of Vega has some interesting mechanics that greatly aid with pacing. Slowing down when moving through water, or locked gates with keys which have to be hunted for. They’re simple but very effective at building atmosphere. So much so, it’s surprisingly that they haven’t been reused in Bodur’s more recent works. It often feels that the design template grows with each new title released, yet here we find systems and effects in place that work well, but haven’t become part of the template.
Despite this Cions of Vega remains Bodur’s shortest console title. While most take an evening or two to complete, this title could easily be finished within two hours. And that’s even when playing at a leisurely pace. That being said, it is far more tightly presented than it’s peers. There’s plot development or interactivity every few metres, and far fewer empty strolls through the beautiful environments.
As is typical for Bodur’s adventure games, Cions of Vega is a fantastic looking experience. It’s not about high quality assets – this isn’t God of War or Forza Horizon – it’s about high quality use of what’s there. Items and objects in the environment blend to create a seamless, believable whole. There is the odd blemish – bugs which can quickly ruin the suspension of disbelief – but far fewer than in The Redress of Mira.
During playing for this Cions of Vega review we found the game enjoyable for it’s incredibly brief duration. It doesn’t attempt to steer into combat in the same fashion as Finding the Soul Orb or The Redress of Mira, nor does it keep the player wandering through the wilderness for extended durations as with The Dead Tree of Ranchuina. However, as with the latter it does have a social commentary of sorts. This time concerned with the folly of organised religion and cults. There’s no much to it, but it’s never less than intriguing while it lasts.
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