Enslaved: Odyssey to the West Review

Enslaved, similar to Heavenly Sword offers a heady mix of heroic storytelling and narrative. You control a character called Monkey (played by Andy Serkis) in a third-person perspective and use power-staff combat moves, running and jumping to overcome obstacles.

In the post-apocalyptic world set 150 years in the future you encounter numerous mechanical enemies which must be defeated. They then drop tech orbs that can be used to upgrade your abilities for combat. While doing this you must escort a young character Tripitaka. Together you work to overcome more complex obstacles.

Trip takes Monkey to meet a friend of her father's named Pigsy (Richard Ridings), who she believes can help them. Pigsy explains that a nearby mech base has the Leviathan, an enormous and incredibly powerful giant mech. The three infiltrate the base, commandeer Leviathan, and steer it to the mysterious Pyramid, where the slaves are being held.

Through the game's exuberant combat and player interactions it raises themes of commitment, care and loyalty. It also includes the theme of slavery and emancipation with Monkey wearing a control-headband throughout.