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If you have been yearning for the days when role-playing games didn’t treat you like a tourist but rather like a survivor, our Of Ash and Steel Review will explain why this gritty open-world adventure might just be the nostalgic challenge you have been waiting for. Unlike modern titles that clutter your screen with waypoints and mini-maps, Of Ash and Steel throws you onto the unforgiving island of Grayshaft with little more than a rusty sword and your wits, demanding that you truly learn the lay of the land to survive. This third-person RPG channels the spirit of classics like Gothic and Risen, delivering a zero-to-hero experience where you start as a lowly cartographer named Tristan who can barely swing a weapon without tripping. While the game suffers from some “euro-jank” awkwardness in its animations and technical polish, its deep progression systems, tactical stamina-based combat, and rewarding exploration make it a diamond in the rough for genre purists. Whether you are aligning with factions, mastering alchemy to brew essential potions, or engaging in the surprisingly addictive gambling mini-games to earn coin, Of Ash and Steel offers a rich, immersive world that respects your intelligence—and punishes your mistakes.
A World That Demands Your Attention
The most striking feature of Of Ash and Steel is its refusal to guide you. There are no glowing trails or “detective vision” modes here. If an NPC tells you a bandit camp is “past the old mill, near the twin oaks,” you actually have to listen, look for landmarks, and navigate the environment yourself. This design choice transforms exploration from a chore into a genuine adventure. Discovering a hidden cave behind a waterfall feels like a personal victory rather than a checklist item. The island of Grayshaft is dense with secrets, from underwater shipwrecks to mountain fortresses, and the day-night cycle isn’t just cosmetic; it affects NPC schedules and enemy spawns, making the world feel like a living, breathing ecosystem that exists independently of the player.
Combat: From Clunky to Calculated
Combat in Of Ash and Steel is a polarizing affair that requires patience. In the early hours, Tristan is incompetent, and the controls will feel sluggish and unresponsive—this is intentional. You aren’t playing a chosen one; you are playing a cartographer. Every swing drains stamina, and mistiming a block can lead to a quick death. However, as you invest experience points into specific weapon trees and stats, the combat evolves. You unlock parries, feints, and fluid combos that turn frantic struggles into a dance of steel. It’s a satisfying progression curve that mirrors your own growth as a player, though the initial steep difficulty spike may turn off those looking for instant power fantasies.
Survival and Systems
Beyond fighting, you must manage survival elements that add friction to the gameplay. Hunger, thirst, and rest are not just bars to fill; they impact your stamina regeneration and health. The crafting system is robust, allowing you to create everything from bandages to magical tinctures using herbs gathered in the wild. A standout feature is the unique gambling mini-game found in taverns, which is complex enough to be a standalone game. It serves as a great way to earn early gold when monster hunting is too dangerous, adding a layer of role-playing depth that fleshes out the world’s culture.
The Verdict: A Flawed Gem for the Patient
Of Ash and Steel is not for everyone. It lacks the AAA polish of a Witcher or Elder Scrolls title, often exhibiting stiff voice acting and the occasional bug that might force a reload. Yet, for players who value immersion, agency, and a steep difficulty curve, it offers a deeply rewarding experience that modern gaming has largely abandoned. It is a slow burn that asks for your time and patience, but in return, it gives you a true sense of earning your place in its world. If you can look past the rough edges, you will find an RPG with a heart of gold—and a fist of steel.
