Publisher Chucklefish just confirmed that Eastward should launch this year on PC. We already know that this action-adventure game, which features jaw-dropping 2D art (and 3D lighting effects), is headed for the Switch, so that’s exciting news. Gamers with a love of things Japanese or East Asian will find delightful details in this game, from kanji signboards to an old bathhouse.
Cooking in Eastward
The announcement on February 25 also described how cooking works in Eastward. A few months ago, the developer said cooking would be an “integral” mechanic in the game. There’ll be more use for John’s frying pan besides whacking enemies.
What I’m hearing sounds reminiscent of cooking in Breath of the Wild, which may excite some of you. Ingredients can be found in shops and foraged while exploring. No recipe is required beforehand, and once you’ve cooked something the recipe will be saved. A “slot machine” will determine the dish’s effects, whether the food will result in buffs or replenishing stats.
Zelda Fans May Like This
Eastward looks to be an action-adventure with puzzles—not a genre I often play, but the demo (released for a limited time in 2019) won me over. The setting is apocalyptic yet beautiful; it’s too pretty not to play.
Switching between two protagonists—older man John and little girl Sam—to solve puzzles and tackle combat promises to deliver an interesting experience. This is again reminiscient of the Zelda series (think Phantom Hourglass).
Eastward’s original launch was slated for 2020 but pushed back due to quarantine restrictions, among other challenges that affected developer Pixpil. The game will be Pixpil’s debut title.
Extra Reading
If this game has caught your eye, here are two older interviews to stir up your appetite further:
Gamasutra (March 2020): On Eastward‘s origins and inspirations.
Redbull (May 2018): On Pixpil’s partnerships.