Eastward
SPIRITED AWAY
EASTWARD’s atmosphere outshines its uneven plot
By Daniella Lucas
Set in a world where humanity is clinging on in pockets of civilisation, Eastward follows the exploits of John –a silent miner who uses a frying pan for both cooking and hitting people – and Sam. They develop a father-daughter-like relationship as they eke out a living in the underground town of Potrock Isle, however they’re soon exiled to the wastelands of the surface world after causing a bit too much trouble. And the world above isn’t what it seems…
The game takes a lot of inspiration from retro RPGs and the likes of Earthbound, Zelda, and Studio Ghibli, and features a mix of puzzles and action-based combat across beautifully desolate locations. You’ll explore the world via stops on a strange train track as you uncover the dark secrets plaguing this charming pixelated world. There are parallels to the train found in Spirited Away, but instead of just passing by various fantastical locations you get to stop at each station to explore.