Until the end: 5 things you need to know before starting your adventure

After four years the debut game from 2 Ton Studios is ready – Until the end has arrived on Xbox One, Windows 10 PC, and Xbox Game Pass. We can’t wait for players to take their first steps as a Until the end‘s hero – a father and husband who is really just a normal, red-haired guy. He happens to live in a world where basic sword proficiency is an integral part of life.

The father is in a dire situation and has to come home to his family. But it’s not a walk in the park. Until the end is a challenging experience that requires skill and concentration.

So before you start Until the end Adventure, here are 5 things you need to know …

The fight requires targeted action

The combat system has been carefully designed from the ground up, paying special attention to the benefits of fighting in a 2D side room. For example, the ability to see enemies behind you and accurately judge high and low attacks. It was also designed for precise, deliberate action. In contrast to playing – ie pressing a button – ultimately leads to failure.

The key is to learn to read your opponent and react accordingly. And above all, stay calm and focused. There are no easy enemies, and every enemy is different. There is no such thing as “lazing around” – every combat encounter brings new challenges with it. Fortunately, there is a Combat Assistant option, which slows down enemy attacks and gives players who – like me – do not react lightning fast, more of a chance to fight.

The only level up comes from YOU, the player

While it is possible to craft some rudimentary armor items that can improve your chances of survival, there is no XP or level up. You don’t suddenly get magical powers or a 10-foot flame-covered sword. The skills of the players are at the heart of the experience Until the end is all about learning and developing the player as the adventure progresses.

Mastery of the fight is an essential part of the feeling of progress. Whenever you rest by a fire, you can step into a dream that will take you back to your homestead and fight against your wife. Take the time here to hone your fighting skills. Attack, block, counterattack, forgery, barge, throw … every movement is possible from the start. It is up to you to learn and ultimately master what is available to you.

There are alternatives to fighting

Perfecting the fight is just one step towards mastering the game. Situation awareness is equally important – learn to understand the world, the creatures it shares with you, and the clues and items they can sometimes provide to uncover alternatives to combat. The residents may seem hostile, but each has its own place and purpose. They are not just enemies waiting to fight you.

While there is no such thing as a completely peaceful way home – there are times when you definitely have to bleed your blade – there are ways you can temporarily gain confidence in potential enemies by trading, offering, or showing items. Other creatures may just be protecting their territory, and getting away from them quickly is enough to show that you are not a threat.

There will be slight variations in the end depending on how you act. It is therefore worth trying a playthrough that avoids killing whenever possible.

Unto The End is a concentrated, clear gaming experience

On-screen indicators like health and stamina bars were an early feature Until the end Prototypes, but the finished game is completely HUD-free. This design decision is to ensure that players can have a steady focus on the father without the distraction. Instead, the father’s “states” are communicated through his looks and demeanor. For example, his health can be interpreted by the amount of blood that is visible on him.

And there are other indicators. When the father is fatally wounded, he falls to one knee and the music intensifies so the player knows they need to use an herb to slow bleeding, drink a tonic, or heal over a quiet fire, or take the risk there is bleeding.

Until the end has confidence in the player – that not only will you be able to complete the challenges they present you without having to pamper yourself, but that you will derive immense satisfaction from it.

Curiosity and creativity are rewarded

because Until the end

Offers minimal hand-holding, well worth being curious at all times without waiting for a prompt or obvious signage (because it won’t come!). Resting fires or helpful items can be found in hidden areas off the beaten path. Cleaning up for craft items is essential, but the materials are rarely noticeable so you really have to look for them.

There are also plenty of random surprises to be found. The father can step on snow. He can throw up. Wave the torch. There is a hidden dream. Hidden lore objects. There’s even the option to set the menu and in-game text to Scottish Gaelic (Goidelic), which is the father’s language. There are lots of little surprises and unexpected moments. Explore. Experiment. Be curious.

We hope you enjoy your trip.