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ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
Item: ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAdventure, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, RPG, Single Player

AvailableJan 22, 2025

PlatformPlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, PC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X

DeveloperLive Wire

Overview

Decades after the Rain of Death, a new journey begins in the Land of Fumes, where mystical powers lie beneath the earth. The kingdom’s desire for conquest led to the creation of the Homunculi, machine-like artificial life forms prepared to execute the king’s will. A recent resource-harvesting mission gone awry caused toxic vapors to emerge from underground, driving both man and machine to feral madness. As the Homonculi devolve into dangerous creatures, guide Lilac –- an “Attuner” with the power to purify those infected by the fumes — on a quest to save the kingdom. With the help of friendly machines and spirits who fight in Lilac’s stead, fend off mechanized legions of lunging carcasses, cannonball-firing corpses and chainsaw-wielding goblins terrorizing the land. Turn foes into friends by exorcizing corruption from enemy bosses. Wield their powers to add 30 different abilities to Lilac’s combat repertoire in an enhanced battle system where she can equip up to four special abilities at once. Improve Lilac’s odds of surviving this hunt for lost memories by leveling up attack strength, HP, and armor. Explore the depths, heights and far corners of the kingdom for lore-filled relics. Collect and trade gold for upgraded items at the Blacksmith’s storefront. Combine story fragments from the kingdom’s fleeing inhabitants with Lilac’s forgotten memories. Seek the truth in an atmospheric hand-drawn setting set to the soothing serenades of returning musical group Mili (Ghost in the Shell, Goblin Slayer) with a brand new original soundtrack available for purchase at launch.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist captivates with its emotional narrative and themes of hope, following Lilac as she aids corrupted Homunculi while uncovering her past. Critics praise its character relationships and immersive storytelling, but many flag concerns over narrative clarity and depth, with some elements feeling underdeveloped. While the game shows improvement over its predecessor, it grapples with execution flaws that may leave players wanting more from its rich premise.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist has garnered praise for its intriguing premise and emotional depth. Critics like GameBlast highlight the melancholic yet warm narrative that follows Lilac, a memory-lost character, as she aids corrupted Homunculi while uncovering her past. The game is noted for its exploration of themes such as hope amidst despair and the societal role of artificial beings, as mentioned by IGN Italia. Additionally, Noisy Pixel appreciates the stronger narrative focus, emphasizing deeper character relationships and the emotional weight they bring to the story. Critics like God is a Geek and Oyungezer also commend the narrative's connection to gameplay, suggesting that it effectively immerses players in Lilac's journey through a richly crafted world. However, the game has faced criticism regarding its narrative clarity and depth. Several reviewers, including Digital Chumps and Push Square, note that the story can be complex and hard to follow, with some elements feeling underdeveloped or overly reliant on optional texts, as pointed out by Combo Infinito. Critics like RPGamer and 4P.de mention that while the story is crisp, it often takes a back seat to exploration and combat, making it less memorable. Additionally, Multiplayer.it expresses disappointment in the underutilization of characters and the lack of refinement in the narrative, suggesting that it becomes confusing and less engaging as it progresses. Overall, the consensus among critics reflects a mixed sentiment towards the story of ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist. While many appreciate the thematic richness and emotional undertones, there is a significant concern regarding the execution and clarity of the narrative. Critics like Vandal and NintendoWorldReport recognize the improvements over the predecessor in terms of character development and environmental storytelling, yet they also acknowledge that the game does not fully capitalize on its potential. Ultimately, the story is seen as a compelling yet flawed experience, with a blend of engaging elements and notable shortcomings that may leave some players wanting more.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist has garnered strong praise for its engaging Metroidvania gameplay, rich exploration, and strategic combat with Homunculi. Critics commend its fluid controls and customizable abilities, though some note issues with confusing areas, a lack of innovation, and occasionally simplistic combat. Overall, it’s viewed as a solid entry in the genre, successfully blending familiar mechanics with fresh features, making it a rewarding experience despite some imperfections.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

77%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

23%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist has received a predominantly positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging mechanics and exploration-rich design. Reviewers like Digital Chumps and GameBlast appreciate the game’s adherence to traditional Metroidvania elements, emphasizing exploration and ability-based progression. The combat system, particularly the integration of Homunculi, has been praised for adding depth and variety, with critics such as Game Informer and Noisy Pixel noting the strategic possibilities it offers. Additionally, the fluid controls and responsive mechanics have been highlighted by critics like Meristation and Generación Xbox, who commend the game for providing a smooth and accessible experience, further enhanced by customizable abilities and a refined map system. However, some critics have pointed out areas where the gameplay falls short. Digital Chumps mentions that certain areas can be confusing, leading to frustration, while others like Eurogamer and SpazioGames feel that the gameplay lacks significant innovation compared to its predecessor. Critics have also noted that while the combat is engaging, it can become simplistic at times, as mentioned by GameBlast and RPGamer. Additionally, the backtracking mechanics received mixed responses, with Push Square stating that it feels less satisfying compared to other titles in the genre. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist delivers a solid Metroidvania experience with a focus on exploration and combat. While there are criticisms regarding some gameplay mechanics and a perceived lack of innovation, the majority of reviewers agree that the game successfully combines familiar elements with new features, resulting in a rewarding experience. Critics such as God is a Geek and Nintendo Life encapsulate this sentiment, praising the dynamic combat and exploration that make the game enjoyable and engaging for players. The positive reception suggests that despite its imperfections, Ender Magnolia stands out as a commendable entry in the Metroidvania genre.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist dazzles with stunning hand-drawn visuals and a captivating gothic aesthetic, earning high praise for its unique blend of 2D and 3D art. Critics celebrate its rich environments and vibrant color palettes, though some point to generic character designs and choppy animations as drawbacks. Despite minor visibility issues and awkward NPC movements, the game shines in its artistic vision, creating an immersive experience that resonates strongly with players and critics alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, with many praising the game's stunning hand-drawn visuals and atmospheric aesthetic. Reviewers such as Digital Chumps and Generación Xbox highlighted the beautiful art direction, gothic architecture, and vibrant color palettes that enhance the overall experience. Critics like Game Informer and Combo Infinito noted the impressive blend of 2D and 3D elements, creating a unique art style that effectively balances themes of technology and magic. The environments were often described as detailed and varied, with Vandal and Checkpoint Gaming emphasizing the game's ability to juxtapose beauty with bleakness, contributing to a rich and immersive world. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out notable shortcomings in certain areas. GameBlast and Hobby Consolas criticized character designs for being generic and animations for lacking fluidity, which detracted from the visual experience. Eurogamer Germany echoed this sentiment, suggesting that some elements felt borrowed and lacked distinctiveness compared to the original game. Additionally, RPG Fan and XboxEra noted that while the graphics were stunning, there were occasional visibility issues and awkward NPC animations that could hinder gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist excels in its graphics and visual design, with the majority praising its artistic style and atmospheric qualities. The game successfully maintains a high level of visual quality, as noted by Meristation and Push Square, while building upon the aesthetic established in its predecessor. Although there are criticisms regarding character designs and animation fluidity, the positive feedback overwhelmingly highlights the game's ability to create a captivating and visually stunning experience that resonates well with players and critics alike.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

The soundtrack of ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist is widely praised for its haunting, atmospheric quality and emotional depth, enhancing the game's immersive experience. Critics commend Mili's compositions for evoking sadness and nostalgia, though some point out issues of repetitiveness and uninspired tracks in certain areas. Overall, the music significantly enriches the game's ambiance, making it a standout feature despite some minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist have garnered significant praise from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, including Digital Chumps and RPGamer, highlighted the haunting and atmospheric qualities of the soundtrack, noting how it complements the game's visuals and enhances the overall experience. Critics like Combo Infinito and GamingBolt praised the variety within the music, with standout elements such as melancholic melodies and vocal tracks that elevate the emotional depth of the game. The compositions by Mili have been particularly lauded for their ability to evoke feelings of sadness and nostalgia, with many critics, including God is a Geek and Multiplayer.it, emphasizing how the music contributes to the game's immersive ambiance. Despite the overall positive reception, some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the soundtrack. GameBlast and Vandal noted that while the music is effective, some tracks can feel monotonous or repetitive, especially in larger areas of the game. Eurogamer Germany took a more critical stance, describing portions of the music as uninspired and derivative, which detracted from the overall experience. Similarly, Hey Poor Player mentioned a lack of variety during intense moments, such as boss battles, which could diminish the impact of the soundtrack in crucial gameplay scenarios. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the sound design and music of ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist are of high quality, significantly enhancing the game's atmosphere and emotional resonance. The majority of reviewers, including TouchArcade and NintendoWorldReport, expressed that the soundtrack effectively captures the game's themes and mood, contributing positively to the player's experience. While there are some criticisms regarding repetitiveness and a perceived lack of creativity in certain tracks, the overwhelming sentiment is that Mili's compositions create a hauntingly beautiful soundscape that enriches the game, making it a noteworthy aspect of the overall design.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist shines with stellar performance across multiple platforms, especially on PS5 and Xbox Series X, where critics praise its smooth operation and lack of loading times. The Nintendo Switch impresses with stable 60fps gameplay. However, the PC version has minor framerate drops and occasional bugs, while some visibility and navigation issues persist. Overall, it’s a polished experience, but PC players may encounter some hiccups.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist has garnered generally positive feedback across various platforms. On the PlayStation 5, critics such as Push Square and Vandal praised the game for its flawless performance and smooth operation, with Vandal specifically noting the absence of loading times and slowdowns, which contributes to an enhanced gameplay experience. Digital Chumps also highlighted the game's polished nature, reinforcing the notion that the PS5 version is well-optimized. On the PC front, Eurogamer and Siliconera echoed similar sentiments, with both reviews emphasizing a stable performance devoid of significant technical issues. Even TouchArcade, while mentioning minor hitching on the Steam Deck, acknowledged the overall improvements made to the game, particularly in terms of performance. The Xbox Series X version received high marks from Generación Xbox, who described its technical performance as impeccable, ensuring a smooth gameplay experience. Meanwhile, the Nintendo Switch version has been lauded for its stability, with Nintendo Life noting a consistent 60fps across both docked and handheld modes, which is crucial for maintaining gameplay fluidity. Despite the overall positive reception, there are some criticisms that have emerged regarding technical performance on certain platforms. On PC, Noisy Pixel pointed out minor framerate drops that, while not significantly detracting from the experience, indicate room for improvement. Try Hard Guides raised concerns about save checkpoint placements and occasional platforming bugs, suggesting that these issues could affect gameplay flow. XboxEra noted visibility issues and challenges with end-game map navigation, hinting at some technical hurdles that could frustrate players. While the Nintendo Switch version has been praised for its smooth performance, the reviews did not entirely dismiss the potential for performance issues, as the hardware limitations of the platform could still pose challenges in more demanding scenarios. Overall, the consensus among critics is that ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist delivers a polished and technically sound experience across the board, with each platform showcasing its strengths. The PS5 and Xbox Series X versions are particularly highlighted for their impeccable performance, while the Nintendo Switch impresses with its stable frame rates. However, the PC version presents a mixed bag, with some minor performance issues noted by critics like Noisy Pixel and Try Hard Guides. Despite these drawbacks, the overall sentiment remains positive, suggesting that players can expect a high-quality experience regardless of their chosen platform.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist has solid replay value thanks to its 12-20 hour campaign, multiple endings, and customizable difficulty. Critics praise its exploration elements but warn of a lack of innovation that could limit long-term engagement. While it encourages revisits for completionists, some players may find it lacks distinct mechanics to keep them coming back. Overall, it’s a mixed bag—great for explorers, but not groundbreaking enough for all.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

41%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

55%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist is largely positive, with many critics highlighting various aspects that contribute to its replayability. Reviewers such as GameBlast and RPGamer note the game's decent campaign length, which ranges from 12 to 20 hours, and the inclusion of multiple endings and hidden secrets that encourage players to explore further. Critics like Hobby Consolas and Nintendo Life emphasize the customizable difficulty settings, which not only provide a tailored experience but also incentivize players to revisit the game with different challenges. The exploration elements are a recurring theme, with Digital Chumps and Checkpoint Gaming mentioning that the game rewards players for thorough exploration, enhancing the overall replay value. Despite the positive aspects, some critics express concerns about the limitations in replay value. For instance, Combo Infinito and Eurogamer point out that while the game offers a rewarding exploration experience, it lacks significant innovation within its genre, which could affect long-term engagement. Additionally, Noisy Pixel and SpazioGames mention that the absence of unique mechanics and the feeling of déjà vu may detract from the replay value for some players. Critics like Meristation also note that while exploration is encouraged, the game does not emphasize replayability strongly enough, leaving some players wanting more explicit incentives to return. Overall, the consensus among critics is that ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist provides a solid foundation for replay value through its exploration, multiple endings, and customizable difficulty options. However, the game may not fully capitalize on these elements, as some reviewers suggest that the lack of variety in gameplay mechanics and innovation could limit its long-term appeal. Critics like Generación Xbox and Eurogamer Germany affirm that the game has significant replay potential, especially for completionists and those who enjoy exploring hidden areas and collectibles. In summary, while the game offers commendable replay incentives, its overall impact may vary based on individual player preferences and expectations.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

96%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding "ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist" is predominantly positive, with many critics highlighting its strengths in aesthetics, gameplay mechanics, and narrative engagement. Reviewers such as Digital Chumps and GameBlast commend the game for being a significant improvement over its predecessor, noting its beautiful visuals and challenging gameplay that appeal to both fans of the genre and newcomers. Critics from outlets like Push Square and God is a Geek emphasize the game's combat and exploration mechanics, praising the captivating world and emotional soundscapes that enhance the overall experience. The consensus among many, including RPG Fan and Nintendo Life, is that the game successfully combines engaging gameplay with a compelling narrative, making it a must-play for Metroidvania enthusiasts. However, despite the overall praise, several critics point out notable shortcomings that prevent "ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist" from achieving a higher level of acclaim. Many reviews, including those from RPGamer and Eurogamer, suggest that while the game is polished and enjoyable, it lacks the originality and depth of its predecessor, often feeling more like an expansion than a standalone sequel. Critics like 4P.de and SpazioGames mention that the game misses opportunities for innovation and character development, which could have elevated the narrative experience. Additionally, some reviewers noted issues with exploration and navigation, as highlighted by Game Informer and XboxEra, which detracted from the overall flow of gameplay. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that "ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist" is a strong entry in the Metroidvania genre, with many reviewers recommending it for its engaging gameplay and beautiful presentation. While there are criticisms regarding its lack of innovation and some gameplay frustrations, the majority of critics, including those from Meristation and NintendoWorldReport, agree that the game offers a captivating experience that builds effectively on its predecessor. This combination of strengths and weaknesses leads to a favorable verdict, solidifying "ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist" as a noteworthy title for fans of the genre in 2025.

TL;DR

"ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist" impresses with stunning visuals, engaging gameplay, and a strong narrative, earning praise as a solid sequel in the Metroidvania genre. Critics highlight its combat and exploration mechanics, making it a must-play for fans. However, some note a lack of originality and innovation, likening it more to an expansion than a standalone title. Despite minor navigation issues, the overall sentiment is positive, securing its place as a noteworthy 2025 release.

MONSTER

Reviews

80 reviews found

NintendoWorldReport

Nintendo Switch

Jun 18, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is hailed as one of the best Metroidvanias of 2025, with significant improvements over its predecessor in story, gameplay, and overall experience.

God is a Geek

Jan 21, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a confident and compelling adventure with great combat, solid exploration, beautiful visuals, and lovely music. It may be considered too easy for some players, but it is praised as one of the must-play titles of 2025.

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Generación Xbox

Xbox Series X

Feb 4, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a standout title in the Metroidvania genre, successfully refining its predecessor's formula while delivering a captivating experience.

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GamingBolt

Jan 21, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mists is praised for its art, music, gameplay, and level design, offering a compelling experience that fans of the genre will appreciate.

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Hey Poor Player

Nintendo Switch

Feb 6, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite some faults, Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a beautiful and challenging sequel that offers a worthy adventure, though it may not surpass its predecessor.

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Nintendo Life

Nintendo Switch

Jan 29, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ender Magnolia is an excellent Metroidvania that combines tense combat, intriguing worldbuilding, and a memorable art style, making it highly recommended for fans of the genre.

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RPG Fan

Mar 10, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

ENDER MAGNOLIA is a delightful sequel that retains the charm of its predecessor while introducing quality-of-life improvements and deeper mechanics, making it one of the best Metroidvanias in recent years.

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Siliconera

Mar 13, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a refined sequel that enhances the original's strengths, offering a compelling experience in a beautifully realized world.

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TheXboxHub

Xbox Series X

Feb 3, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist is a great metroidvania that appeals to fans of the genre, offering a rich story, engaging gameplay, and beautiful music.

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Vandal

PlayStation 5

Feb 7, 2025

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is a worthy sequel that improves upon its predecessor in many aspects, offering a captivating experience for fans of the genre despite a lack of innovative mechanics.