Review of the Compelling RPG Dorva on PC Steam

Drova: Forsaken Kin is a compelling action RPG set in a Norse-inspired world, developed by the indie studio Just2D. The game blends a rich narrative with a variety of gameplay mechanics, offering a deep and immersive experience for players who enjoy both exploration and combat.

One of the standout features of Drova is its beautifully crafted pixel-art world. The environments are diverse, ranging from dense forests to bustling cities, each brimming with atmosphere. The visual style, complemented by a haunting soundtrack, evokes a sense of nostalgia for classic RPGs while also feeling fresh and unique. The world design is immersive, pulling players into a dark, mystical setting full of intrigue.

The story in Drova is deeply engaging, driven by player choice. You navigate a morally complex world where actions have consequences, and there is no clear distinction between good and evil. Players can choose to align with one of two factions—the Remnants or the Nemeton—each offering distinct paths and story outcomes. This freedom of choice extends to gameplay as well, allowing players to act without judgment, whether they decide to follow a noble path or indulge in more selfish or even ruthless behavior. The game’s multiple endings reflect these choices, making it highly replayable.

Combat in Drova is another strong aspect, offering fast-paced, real-time action that encourages strategic thinking. Players can experiment with various weapons, skills, and even magic, each offering distinct playstyles. However, the game demands careful resource management. The world is unforgiving—items don’t respawn, and enemies remain defeated, meaning players must make the most of their available resources. While this adds tension and realism to the game, it can also make the early stages of the game quite challenging​.

The combat system is somewhat hampered by minor annoyances, such as having to manually unsheathe weapons before engaging in fights. This often leaves players vulnerable during the initial moments of a battle, giving enemies an advantage. Additionally, the user interface could benefit from refinement, particularly in terms of navigation and map clarity. The static maps can be difficult to use, making it easy to get lost, especially early in the game.

Exploration is a major aspect of Drova, with the world encouraging players to uncover hidden secrets, lore, and valuable loot. Although there is freedom to explore the world in any order, navigation can be frustrating at times due to a lack of detailed maps. Players must rely on memory and landmarks, which adds a layer of challenge to exploration but can also lead to disorientation.

In terms of character progression, Drova offers a robust system that allows players to customize their abilities and playstyle. The game’s skill trees and leveling mechanics reward experimentation, giving players the chance to develop their characters in ways that suit their preferred combat strategies. However, this depth may feel overwhelming for less experienced players or those unfamiliar with the RPG genre​.

Final Thoughts

Drova: Forsaken Kin is a richly detailed and challenging action RPG that stands out for its narrative depth and atmospheric world. While the game has some minor technical flaws, such as cumbersome navigation and occasional combat frustrations, its strengths in storytelling, exploration, and player agency make it a rewarding experience for fans of the genre. For those who enjoy a darker, more morally complex RPG, Drova offers a captivating journey that invites multiple playthroughs.