El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron Demo Video And Impressions

If this is your first time hearing about El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron then you’re in for a biblical treat. Some of team involved with this game have also worked on projects such as Viewtiful Joe, Okami, and Devil May Cry – and I think we can all agree that’s talent you just can’t ignore.

El Shaddai: Ascension of the Metatron is a 3rd person fantasy action title inspired by events in the 'Book of Enoch', which can be found in the Old Testament. To prevent the human race being wiped out in an apocalyptic flood, Enoch must interject in a battle raging between Heaven and the Fallen Angels. Guided by the Archangel Lucifel, his mission is to overcome the Fallen Angels in one heck of an almighty fist-fight.

The first thing you will notice about the game is it looks absolutely stunning. UTV Ignition Entertainment has managed to create something that is deliciously stylistic without ever becoming crowded and fussy. It’s extremely impressive stuff and captures the ‘other-worldly’ vibe perfectly. Enoch’s animation doesn’t quite live up to the standards set by the graphics, but they are in no way bad.

The actual combat in the game is somewhat of a mixed bag. The demo gives players access to a limited move-set which is comprised of basic kicks and punches which can be charged up to unleash a powerful flurry. The main hook of the combat is the fact that, after you’ve given them a damn good kicking, you can steal the Fallen Angel’s weapons. This is a fantastic idea and mixes things up from fight to fight.

Two weapons were included in the demo; a sword and a projectile based attack. The sword requires you to get up close and personal, with basic slash attacks followed by a charged up multi-slash. The projectile based weapon requires a smarter approach, with Enoch staying out of range of the enemy whilst reigning down stabby-death from above.

Unfortunately the combat system is hampered somewhat by a recalcitrant camera and the lack of a decent lock-on. The camera itself is fixed, and occasionally seems a bit slow to react as enemies dance off-screen and you are unable to see them. In terms of a target-lock, the game does have a basic automatic one but it is nowhere near good enough. Some of your attacks see Enoch spinning wildly, but if the enemy happens to move then all you’ll be hitting is thin air. Overall the demo definitely has piqued my interest. There are some niggles here that have the potential to spoil the game, but we will have to wait and see.

In the meantime, check out ten minutes of demo footage below.