River End Games’ debut title, Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream, whispers promises of stealth brilliance from its opening moments. The game presents a top-down, diorama-like world that begs to be explored. However, its initial hours, though visually arresting, hold back the strategic depth that truly defines the experience. With gameplay revolving around three characters, each with unique abilities, Eriksholm builds a compelling narrative about home and perseverance against overwhelming odds, punctuated by breathtaking cinematics.
The game’s narrative is focused. Hanna’s quest to rescue her brother from the clutches of the city’s power brokers throws her into a conspiracy that winds through abandoned mines and grimy sewers. She’s joined by Alva, a spirited resistance leader, and Sebastian, a reserved but strong worker, creating a dynamic trio whose interplay enhances both the story and the gameplay.
Initially, the mechanics are parceled out slowly, a design choice that, while understandable, ultimately hinders the game’s momentum. Hanna starts alone, navigating the city’s underbelly, before Alva and Sebastian join, unlocking the game’s full potential. It’s a testament to the core design that even with its slow burn, Eriksholm manages to captivate.
“I just wish I had access to its tools sooner,” says one gamer on X.com. “When I fully grasped what I was capable of with all three protagonists simultaneously under my command, the credits soon began to roll.”
The setting of Eriksholm is a character in itself. Its Nordic-inspired architecture blends seamlessly with a “whalepunk” aesthetic, showcasing steam engines, trolley carts, and a verticality reminiscent of the Dishonored series. The painterly visuals and dynamic lighting make Eriksholm feel alive, breathing with its own society and secrets. The city isn’t just a backdrop, it becomes integral to the gameplay itself.
Each character’s abilities offer distinct strategic options:
- Hanna’s agility allows her to infiltrate buildings through ventilation shafts and neutralize guards with sleep darts.
- Alva’s rooftop vantage points and slingshot enable distractions and manipulation of light sources.
- Sebastian’s brute strength lets him subdue guards and navigate the city’s waterways.
The heart of Eriksholm lies in its intricate stealth puzzles. Players must carefully coordinate the characters’ abilities to overcome obstacles, requiring a keen understanding of each character’s strengths and weaknesses. A darkened area, thanks to Alva’s slingshot, provides cover for Hanna to neutralize a sentry, who is then swiftly silenced by Sebastian. These moments of combined strategizing are where Eriksholm shines.
Failure is frequent, but checkpoints are generally forgiving, minimizing frustration. However, the game’s deliberate movement speed can exacerbate the sting of setbacks. One slight mistake could mean a swift game over. The challenging gameplay did not stop a huge amount of people from enjoying it, however.
The game’s narrative, while straightforward, is full of heart. The cutscenes are visually stunning, rivaling those of industry giants. The twists may not be entirely unexpected, but the overall story is satisfyingly resolved. A user commented, “I thought the story was very good and well written. The game itself was also amazing and very fun.”
However, the pacing remains a point of contention. The extended introduction with Hanna alone feels like a prolonged tutorial, delaying the introduction of Alva and Sebastian. By the time the trio unites, only a few hours remain to fully explore their combined potential. Many believe that the game would be improved if the characters were availible to play with sooner.
Even so, the smaller moments woven into the gameplay deliver their own unique charm. One particular moment involving an overheard confession of an affair as a guard lay unconcious, provides a glimpse of the game’s darkly comedic wit. The diorama-esque perspective offers a voyeuristic lens through which these stories unfold, adding depth and character to the world.
Despite its strengths, Eriksholm isn’t without its flaws. Several players voiced similar concerns about the game’s pacing and character development. “It marked a turning point,” said one local gamer, referring to the moment the game switched from one playable character to three. The slow animation is slightly problematic, too. However, these are not severe enough to overshadow the game’s inherent qualities.
Ultimately, Eriksholm: The Stolen Dream is a puzzle game disguised as a stealth adventure. Its engaging mechanics, charming characters, and beautifully realized world create a compelling experience. While the game’s initial hours may feel restrained, the final act is a testament to River End Games’ potential. With a more balanced pacing and character introduction, a sequel could truly cement Eriksholm as a stealth masterpiece.
