Ember Lab has unveiled an ambitious follow-up to their 2021 title, "Kena: Bridge of Spirits," with the announcement of "Kena: Scars of Kosmora." This new game, which was prominently featured during the recent PlayStation State of Play showcase, signals a significant expansion of the beloved adventure, promising a broader scope and enhanced gameplay experience that will also be available on PC from day one.
In this much-anticipated sequel, the protagonist, Kena, returns as a more mature and adept Spirit Guide, demonstrating heightened agility and refined movement capabilities. The narrative centers around her journey to Kosmora, where an encounter with a formidable spirit results in the destruction of her staff, a vital instrument for guiding spirits and sustaining her own life force. To overcome this challenge and survive, Kena must embrace the ancient practice of elemental alchemy, leveraging its power to control the natural forces around her, as detailed by Ember Lab co-founder Josh Grier.
While the initial installment received a modest reception, noted more for its artistic vision than its gameplay depth, "Kena: Scars of Kosmora" aims to elevate the franchise. Ember Lab emphasizes a design philosophy focused on intricate regions and a deliberate, unfolding adventure, moving beyond the more linear path of its predecessor. Fans of the original's Pixar-esque aesthetics will find a visually refined world, ready to be explored by both new and returning players on PC and PlayStation 5 later this year, offering an evolved journey that blends charming visuals with a deeper, more engaging narrative.
This new chapter in Kena's story represents not just an expansion of a game world, but a profound evolution of its core themes. As Kena learns to harness ancient elemental powers, players are invited to embrace the transformative journey of adapting to new challenges and discovering inner strength, echoing the idea that true power often lies in resilience and innovation when faced with adversity.