Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is the latest 2D side-scrolling action RPG from developers Adglobe and Live Wire, published by Binary Haze Interactive. As a sequel to Ender Lilies: Quietus of the Knights, this dark fantasy Metroidvania builds upon its predecessor’s atmospheric world and deep combat mechanics. Available on PC and all current consoles, Ender Magnolia invites players to uncover the mysteries of the Land of Fumes while navigating a beautifully haunting, ruined world.
Attuned…
Taking place a decade after the events of Ender Lilies, Ender Magnolia unfolds in a land seemingly ravaged. Players step into the role of Lilac, an Attuner with no memory of her past, gifted with the rare ability to purify corrupted Homunculi—artificial beings that now roam the ruined world. As Lilac embarks on her journey, she forms a bond with Nola, her first companion and a crucial ally in her fight for survival. While this is a sequel, newcomers can jump in without prior knowledge—this entry weaves its own tale, slowly revealing its rich lore through environmental storytelling, cryptic notes, and haunting character interactions rather than relying on exposition-heavy cutscenes. The deeper you explore, the more the world’s secrets begin to unravel.
Metroidvania with a twist
Combat in Ender Magnolia is built around Lilac’s ability to channel the powers of the Homunculi she purifies, turning fallen foes into invaluable allies. Early in the game, players will encounter companions like Nola, who provides swift melee strikes with her Spirit Piercer, and Yolvan, whose Pressure Ability allows Lilac to unleash a continuous ranged attack while maintaining mobility. Later, allies like Muninn, an owl-like scout, offer autonomous attacks, creating opportunities for players who prefer a more passive offensive approach.
To stand a fighting chance against the mutants and corrupted monsters that prowl the ruins, Lilac can equip Relics, granting passive benefits such as increased damage or healing bonuses. The Helix Crystal, for instance, allows players to regain health upon defeating enemies, encouraging aggressive combat strategies. Players can also expand their Relic capacity through crafted upgrades, allowing for greater customization. Equipment such as Crude Bangles boosts defence, while Magicite-infused items provide buffs that enhance survivability in the hostile landscape. With a combination of fluid combat mechanics, strategic ally usage, and carefully chosen upgrades, players must adapt their playstyle to survive the increasingly deadly threats of the Land of Fumes.
Mastering the art of combat
Ender Magnolia embraces a skill-based approach to combat, requiring players to master their abilities to survive against the increasingly difficult foes that lurk in the Land of Fumes. Standard enemies offer a fair challenge, but boss fights stand in a league of their own, demanding precision, adaptability, and full utilization of Lilac’s Homunculi abilities. Learning attack patterns, dodging at the right moment, and striking when openings appear are essential skills for success.
For those who find themselves struggling against these nightmarish foes, the game offers an alternative path—grinding XP. Defeating enemies allows Lilac to level up, improving stats and making encounters more manageable. The game’s Respite points serve as the only true safe havens, offering a place to heal, swap relics, and prepare for the next gruelling encounter. However, resting at these points comes with a catch—fallen enemies respawn, providing both an opportunity for grinding and a constant sense of danger in a world that never truly lets its guard down.
A world drenched in desolation
From the moment you step into Ender Magnolia’s ruined landscapes, a sense of overwhelming desolation oozes from the screen. The world feels abandoned, with crumbling structures, mist-covered streets, and decayed remnants of a once-thriving civilization. The muted colour palette, dominated by shades of grey and deep blues, is punctuated only by the eerie glow of Magicite-infused relics and the spectral forms of Lilac’s allies. Each area is uniquely crafted to reflect the despair of a world teetering on the brink of oblivion, making every step forward isolating yet immersive. The boss designs stand as the game’s most striking visual achievement, each one a grotesque, haunting spectacle reminiscent of a 2D interpretation of Bloodborne and Souls-like monstrosities. From fallen guardians twisted into unrecognizable horrors to winged abominations radiating barely contained fury.
Conclusion
Ender Magnolia: Bloom in the Mist is an experience that lingers long after you put the controller down. Its haunting atmosphere, challenging combat, and deep world-building come together to create a captivating and immersive adventure. The desolate landscapes, beautifully tragic boss designs, and fluid combat make this a must-play for fans of 2D action RPGs who aren’t afraid of a steep challenge. If you’re looking for a game that demands patience, skill, and a willingness to piece together its world’s shattered past, Ender Magnolia is a journey worth taking.
