Aztaka
| Aztaka | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Developer | Citérémis |
| Publisher | Citérémis |
| Platforms | Microsoft Windows, OS X |
| Release | Windows May 7, 2009[1] OS X December 19, 2012 |
| Genres | Action role-playing game, Metroidvania |
| Mode | Single-player |
Aztaka is a 2D side-scrolling action role-playing video game for the Microsoft Windows and OS X developed by Canadian independent game developer Citérémis.[2] The game is set in the Aztec period, with characters and story being re-interpretations of Aztec mythology and pre-Hispanic Mexican culture. It puts the player in the role of an Aztec warrior named "Huitzilo" who must gather seven phonographs to save his civilization from its angry gods.
Gameplay
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The gameplay is reminiscent of an old-school action role-playing game. The player climbs, crawls and jumps his way around a level to explore it and find new items. Experience points are gained for every enemy killed, and they are spent to upgrade the character's attributes and special skills.[3] There is also an inventory screen where discovered items can be equipped and where merchandise bought from merchants (like potions) can be used.[4]
The game is controlled with the WASD keys (makes Huitzilo move and jump) and the mouse (to attack or grab items).[5] Doing this allows the player to modify parts of the game world, as well as unlock a variety of doorways or pick-up previously unattainable items.[6] As the player progresses in the game, he gains containers that allows him to store on-screen energy particles for later use. The mouse is also used to cast spells, both offensive and defensive, by selecting them from the bottom-screen magic inventory and then clicking at on-screen targets in succession to launch them.[7]
Artwork throughout the game reflects historical Mesoamerica, with square-shaped pyramids, stone temples, mystic engravings, dense jungles, and barren mountaintops. The game's musical score features vocals, flute, cello, organ, and drums.
History
[edit | edit source]The game was released as DRM-free digital self-distribution on the developer's website and on Direct2Drive in May 2009.[1] Later that year the game also launched on Steam.[8] In 2011, Citérémis offered a "Developer's Edition" for a limited period of time (7 to 31 January).[9] This edition included the source code of the game, as well as the art book and soundtrack.[10]
Reception
[edit | edit source]The game was received by press and game news websites overall good to mixed.[11][12] It was mentioned in an article about indie game development in Italian magazine The Games Machine.[13]
References
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