Call of the Elder Gods Review: Lovecraftian Adventure with a Hint of Indiana Jones

Developer Out of the Blue, known for their previous title American Arcadia (2023), returns with Call of the Elder Gods, a sequel to the well-received Call of the Sea. This new adventure shifts gears, embracing a 1950s, globe-trotting narrative that blends the supernatural peril of Lovecraft with the adventurous spirit of Indiana Jones. Set across various locations including Arkham, Massachusetts, Boston, and the mountains of Norway, players embark on a quest involving Miskatonic University and the enigmatic Dr. West.

The game introduces new protagonists, Evangeline Drayton, a physics student, and Professor Harry Everhart, amid a backdrop of ancient civilizations and cosmic horrors. However, it's the return of Norah Everhart as the narrator that adds a much-needed spark, given the somewhat bland nature of the new leads. Norah's witty observations keep the game afloat, especially as emotional engagement with the protagonists proves challenging. The story allows players to influence Norah's fate based on choices from the first game, though her presence as narrator remains a constant, guiding light.

About Call of the Elder Gods

Call of the Elder Gods is developed by Out of the Blue and published for PC, falling under the Adventure and Puzzle genres. As a sequel, it builds upon the narrative foundations of Call of the Sea but expands its scope significantly. The game's setting, jumping from the 1930s to the 1950s, introduces a new era of exploration, with protagonists navigating secret societies, ancient artifacts, and the lingering threats of Nazism.

The developer's decision to move from a single, tropical location to a globe-trotting adventure reflects an ambitious growth in scope. Locations are vividly rendered, from the gloomy mansions of Boston to the crystalline caverns and the opulent headquarters of an Egypt-obsessed cult. While the 3D character models feel stiff and the 2D cutscenes rudimentary, the environments are rich in ambient detail, making the world feel alive.

Puzzle-Solving at Its Core

The true star of Call of the Elder Gods is its journal-based puzzle system, a feature that evolves from its predecessor. Described as more "expansive and involved," puzzles often span entire locations, requiring careful note-taking, cross-referencing, and deduction. Players collect fragments of information—timetables, photos, and more—which are neatly organized in the journal, facilitating a logical approach to solving. This system is praised for its fairness and for making players feel accomplished without hand-holding, as noted by the reviewer:

"it's just hugely refreshing to play a game that doesn't treat you like a complete moron."

Comparisons to Life is Strange and Uncharted are apt in terms of the journal's integral role, but Call of the Elder Gods distinguishes itself with puzzles that encourage deep thinking. Whether matching names to occupations or constructing timelines, the challenge is engaging without being insurmountable, thanks to the well-organized journal system. Simpler challenges and tactile contraptions provide a nice contrast to the more cerebral puzzles.

What This Means for Players

Despite its many strengths, Call of the Elder Gods falters in emotional engagement compared to Call of the Sea, largely due to its new, less compelling protagonists. The shift from a single, atmospheric location to a broader, more adventurous narrative also slightly dilutes the mood. However, for fans of puzzle-adventure games, the smart design, beautiful settings, and the joy of discovery make this sequel worthwhile. As the reviewer sums up, the game is "good, smart, atmospheric, and rewarding," even if it lacks the emotional depth of its predecessor.

The inclusion of Norah as a narrator is a highlight, adding depth and personality to the game. Her presence, along with the varied and detailed locations, helps offset the lack of character development in the protagonists. The game's ability to balance complexity with accessibility in its puzzles is a significant achievement, making it appealing to both veteran puzzle gamers and those seeking a challenging yet fair experience.

Criticisms and Expectations

Criticisms of the game include its stiff 3D character models and rudimentary 2D cutscenes, which feel out of place against the game's otherwise vibrant environments. The lack of emotional connection with the new protagonists is another drawback, making the narrative less impactful than its predecessor. Despite these, the game's strengths in puzzle design, atmospheric settings, and the narrative voice of Norah make it a compelling play.

Players anticipating a deeper, more emotionally charged experience similar to Call of the Sea might find Call of the Elder Gods slightly wanting. However, those seeking a smart, challenging puzzle game with a rich, Lovecraftian atmosphere will find plenty to enjoy. The game's success lies in its ability to evoke a sense of adventure and discovery, even if it doesn't fully capture the emotional resonance of its predecessor.

In the context of Out of the Blue's portfolio, Call of the Elder Gods demonstrates growth in ambition and scope. Following the cinematic puzzler American Arcadia, this title shows the developer's versatility in blending different genres and themes. The game's puzzles and narrative, while differing from American Arcadia's focus, showcase a consistent attention to detail and player experience.

Conclusion and Looking Forward

In conclusion, Call of the Elder Gods is a worthy sequel that, while not perfect, offers a unique blend of adventure, puzzle-solving, and Lovecraftian horror. Its failures in character development and some technical aspects are overshadowed by its engaging puzzles and richly detailed world. As players navigate the globe, solving mysteries and uncovering ancient secrets, the game promises a journey that, despite its flaws, is undeniably captivating.

Looking forward, the future of this series hinges on its ability to balance ambition with emotional depth. If Out of the Blue can reconcile the scale of Call of the Elder Gods with the character-driven narrative of Call of the Sea, the potential for a truly unforgettable gaming experience is vast. For now, Call of the Elder Gods stands as a smart, atmospheric adventure that puzzle enthusiasts and fans of the Lovecraftian genre will surely appreciate.