Looking for a New Metroidvania? Tales of Kenzera: ZAU Seems Fine on PS5

Here’s the rub: Metroidvanias are dime a dozen these days. We’ve only just got done with the exceptional Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown, and now Surgent Studios is following it up with Tales of Kenzera: ZAU on 23rd April. This is being billed as a “heartfelt” adventure about the “transformative power of loss”, as you assume the role of a grieving hero hellbent on bringing back your father from the dead.

“Embark on a poignant single player story shaped by [British actor] Abubakar Salim’s own experience with grief, discovering how to best navigate a new world following the devastating loss of your father,” the blurb reads. “As Zau, you must face your own emotions to become a worthy Nganga: a spiritual healer. Own your journey alongside mythical characters and formidable foes inspired by Bantu lore, each on their own unique path and personal story.”

In order to progress, you’ll need to wield the cosmic powers of both the Sun and Moon, each of which will prove pivotal in combat and exploration. The summary continues: “Master leap, glide, pulse, and more as you expand the masks’ cosmic power along your journey in this Metroidvania-style adventure. As you come upon ability statues, a fantastical myth from Kenzeran culture accompanies each newly unlocked mask ability.”

It all sounds interesting from a premise perspective, but in our opinion, the Metroidvania format is becoming a little long in the tooth. This could be another good one, there’s no doubt about that – and the narrative setup sounds fascinating. But there’s only so many times we can play this type of game before it starts to get a little tired. Thoughts?