“Exhaustlands” by Sand Gardeners (Sam Machell & Colin Le Duc).
“The [fascist] army moves closer everyday[.] […] Space is running out, time is running out, faith is running out. But they can do this. Click and hold to drive. Find locations. Fill up at gas stations or services, change character selection at motels or services. Return to [the headquarters] when you believe you have enough faith to win. […] [A] driving exploration game.”
The unusual genre combination of “Exhaustlands”, as here a metroidvania gets crossed with a driving game, is something strange and beautiful. Travel around in a noteworthy huge game world to gain faith in your victory, as you fight against the fascists. Not only do you encounter strange places and temples on your journey, but you may also encounter new characters like the warrior or the druid. All these characters have different positive traits, which can help you out on your quest. However, your vehicle is small, allowing you to only drive around with two persons at a time. In addition, each one of them believes in a different deity, which can trigger specific events at specific places.
On my first attempt, I was not able to win against the fascists and the darkness that followed them. But on my next road trip in the “Exhaustlands”, I will do better. I will find out what the binary code on the sign means. I will find the cove the warrior is really looking for. I will use the statics of the world for the good. I will give comfort to the traveler’s family. I will discover all the roads that can lead to peace. And I will enjoy the strange atmosphere even a little more. >>PLAY
