Itorah PS4: A Pleasantly Unmemorable Experience

As I reflect on my time with Itorah, I'm left with more of a sense of detachment than any vivid memories of the gameplay or story. The experience was pleasantly unmemorable, and that's not necessarily a bad thing. The title's linearity meant that I rarely had to delve into the map menu to figure out where to go, except for a few instances. This simplicity is an interesting choice, as it allows players to focus on the rewarding gameplay loop without too much fuss.

One of the most striking aspects of Itorah is its simplicity in design and mechanics. Enemy design, progression, and combat all feel rather elementary, making it easy for new players to pick up and understand how everything works. The lack of complexity means that battles are relatively rare, and when they do occur, they're not particularly challenging.

The game's Metroidvania elements, such as upgrading health and stamina, feel supplementary rather than core to the experience. The unique mechanic is a stamina meter that doesn't deplete when attacking, which is a welcome change of pace. Movement and combat are straightforward, consisting of basic dash, jump, and combo attacks.

What truly sets Itorah apart is its gorgeous visuals, showcasing a series of landscapes and dungeons inspired by South and Central America. Unfortunately, the premise, while intriguing at first glance, feels lackadaisical in execution. The narrative lacks a strong hook to draw players in, with infrequent dialogue doing little to establish an emotional connection.

As I played through Itorah, I found myself not particularly invested in the story or characters. The plot revolves around an ominous plague that threatens to infect the world's residents, but it fails to resonate on any meaningful level. On the surface, the game seems simple and unremarkable, yet its pleasant unmemorability has a certain charm.

Ultimately, Itorah is a game that will appeal to some players who enjoy relaxing, low-stakes experiences. While it may not be memorable in the grand scheme of things, it's a pleasant way to spend a few hours exploring a beautiful world.

Itorah ps4