Yaga

A rather simple RPG doused in Slavic folklore and an absolutely phenomenal soundtrack that marries Slavic and Balkan sounds in one big genre experiment. [03/2020, p.70]

Despite somewhat boring combat, Yaga is a fun romp through the vibrant world of Russian folklore thanks to the witty dialogue, zany gameplay mechanics (how about sparing a boss and then summoning him to help you?), colorful characters and tons of randomized events.

While Yaga doesn’t always deliver on the potential that comes with its unique premise there’s still some good fun to be found. What it lacks in depth it makes up for in style and humour, wrapped around a decent, if uneven, action RPG.

The menus have a clean and striking aesthetic, and I loved the way crones gathered around a shattered mirror to look down on Ivan during loading scenes. Breadcrumbs Interactive also nailed the voicework. Last but not least, the head-bobbing soundtrack from Romanian underground band Subcarpati, with its trippy hip-hop and folk influences, feels like the perfect choice. It’s the kind of music people will want to listen to even when not playing. Despite some of the issues I had with it, playing Yaga felt like reading my favorite folktale but better, because this time I got to star in it. Let’s just hope the next time I spin a yarn I get better luck and find Ivan a wife to make his babushka proud.