Apsulov: End of Gods is a paid adventure game from Angry Demon Studio. This first-person indie game puts a sci-fi spin on Norse mythology, pitting a futuristic dystopian world where the world tree Yggdrasil is examined as a part of a research. You wake up in the middle of it, with your past and purpose unknown to you at first.

With a combination of futuristic facilities examining ancient runes, Apsulov: End of Gods is a thrilling, action-packed experience. It feels like a modern game in the image of Wolfenstein: The Old Blood or Blood West.

Revisit the Nine Realms

Apsulov: End of Gods heavily leans into Norse mythology, especially the World Tree. It is a massive tree whose roots and branches extend into different words such as a fiery realm, and ice realm, as well as lands for humans and giants. In the game, however, each of these featured realms is reimagined in a horror-inspired style. This is further accentuated by the use of atmospheric sounds and music.

In terms of gameplay, it has the potential to allow more interaction possibilities but unfortunately, passes up on the opportunity. There are a lot of references to the myths and opportunities to insert puzzle or riddle-type activities but the game focuses on simple movements and later on, combat. During the early game, you are mostly limited to avoiding enemies through stealth and outrunning them.

Still, despite this gameplay restriction, this adventure game works well as a semi-walking simulator making it a great horror game. As mentioned, the soundtrack really sets the mood, combined with the eerie set designs of the game. All these work well in conjunction with the fact that the game is played from a first-person perspective. Add an increasingly compelling story on the top and you’ve got yourself a horror sim.

A great horror experience

As an adventure game, Apsulov: End of Gods might underdeliver in terms of action or the variety of things to do. However, looking at it from the lens of horror gaming and you’ve got yourself a memorable experience. It manages to reestablish Norse mythology in a different context that combines fantasy and sci-fi. This premise works well with the set designs and choice of music to create a great game.