Electronic Arts (EA) has recently unveiled a new addition to its roster of video games under the EA Originals label – Tales of Kenzera: Zau. The game is a captivating exploration of grief interwoven with fast-paced magical battles and platforming adventures. This side-scrolling metroidvania is a creation of Surgent Studios, founded by none other than Abubakar Salim, the distinguished voice actor known for his role as Bayek in Assassin's Creed: Origins.
Taking inspiration from the rich myths and stories of African Bantu cultures, Tales of Kenzera: Zau offers gamers a chance to step into the shoes of a young shaman. In this role, players embark on a quest to navigate the delicate realms of life and death, making a bargain with the God of Death to rescue their father from the brink of oblivion.
Throughout this journey, players are endowed with the mystical powers of the Sun and Moon, granting them the abilities they’ll need to overcome an array of dangerous spirits, puzzle through intricate traps, and scale obstacles with precision and agility. The game’s design reflects a world that bursts with color and energy, a setting characterized by its amalgamation of traditional African aesthetics and futuristic elements.
One of the game’s unique features is its development system, where players can accrue points and invest in a series of skills that enhance their abilities and deepen customization options. This allows for personalized gameplay tailored to individual styles and strategies. The development of Tales of Kenzera: Zau has been a collaborative effort, with contributions from the Ridley Scott Creative Group and involvement from the team behind the popular celebrity tabletop show, Critical Role. Adding to the immersive experience, the game’s soundtrack is composed by Nainita Desai, an accomplished creator of television and film scores, who also crafted the music for the interactive drama game, Immortality.
Reflecting on the central theme of grief in an interview with Gamespot, Salim shared insights into how personal experiences and previous voice acting roles have shaped his creative vision for Tales of Kenzera: Zau. According to Salim, the multifaceted nature of grief is one that resonates with many people, and he was moved to present a narrative that reflected his intimate understanding of the emotion. While his portrayal of Bayek focused on anger and revenge as facets of grief, with Tales of Kenzera, Salim aspires to present a broader and deeply personal perspective—the chaotic, unpredictable, and varied shades of grief.
