#forgotten key

Aer: Memories of Old by Forgotten Key

Aer: Memories of Old is an exploration-focused adventure by indie developer Forgotten Key that lets players glide through a world of floating islands, solve simple puzzles, and uncover a charming story. Its bird shapeshifting mechanic and low-poly aesthetic create a relaxing and immersive experience.

Level Design

The level design is clever and well-paced. The overworld islands are spaced perfectly for the speed of the player character, keeping exploration engaging without feeling boring. There are three dungeons, each with distinct themes and mechanics. The puzzles are fairly easy to maintain the game’s relaxing mood. Shapeshifting into a bird makes traveling between islands fun and immersive!

Sound Design

Sound in Aer is well-executed. There were no noticeable missing effects, and the instrumental soundtrack shifts from triumphant to darker tones to match the story’s mood. Since the game relies entirely on sound for emotional expression, this careful audio design enhances every moment.

Character Controller

The controls feel floaty, which works well with the bird shapeshifting concept. Some aspects, like the syncing of footstep sounds and the stride length relative to animation, are a bit off, but overall it supports the feeling of flying and exploration.

UI

The UI is minimal to maintain the relaxing atmosphere. It mainly consists of dialogue boxes, the map, and a compass HUD. The map is crucial for navigation alongside the compass, especially since directions are given in general terms like “go north and a little east.” Occasional clouds in the sky can obscure vision, adding a small challenge if players don’t use the provided guidance.

Easy to Understand?

Yes. Clear instructions and controls make the game accessible. The NPCs provide guidance if you ever get lost, and the simple puzzles offer easy rewards without frustration.

Overall Fun Factor

Playing Aer is enjoyable and calming. The flying mechanic adds a sense of freedom, and the dungeons and puzzles are satisfying without breaking the relaxed pace. It’s a fun experience for players who enjoy exploration and low-pressure challenges.

Character Design

Character design is excellent! Aer demonstrates that low-poly graphics can convey strong personality. The main character Auk and other characters are full of personality through their modeling, hair, and clothing. Their appearances reflect the world’s culture and quirks, making the characters feel alive and distinctive.

Story

The story follows the classic hero’s journey, starting as a lowly pilgrim and rising to the status of world hero. Optional lore stones deepen the backstory of the floating islands, adding richness to the journey. The narrative is simple but satisfying, especially for fans of exploration and discovery.

Replay Value

Limited. Unless you really enjoy the flying mechanic, there is little reason to replay Aer. There are no collectibles beyond the lore stones, and the game is largely a one-time experience.

Final Thoughts

Rating: Four out of five toe beans! 🐾🐾🐾🐾❌

Waaa I found more sheep!

AER Memories of Old Review

AER: Memories of Oldopens promisingly; you are treated to a brief exploration experience in a mountain cave that shows off the game’s beautiful flat-shaded, low-poly art style and familiarizes you with the game’s “lite” dungeons. At first blush it seems you’ll be embarking on an adventure rich with intrigue and dynamic locales full of puzzles and ever-expanding lore. Once you leave the cave and…

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AER: Memories of Old Review | A Short and Beautiful Flight