Back to the Dawn
" Deep RPG adventure with rich characters and multiple endings but a stressful time limit "
Back to the Dawn Review
Back to the Dawn is a richly immersive and intricately designed prison escape RPG set in an anthropomorphic animal world. Players assume the role of Thomas the Fox, navigating a brutal maximum-security prison with a strong emphasis on strategic planning, social dynamics, and survival mechanics. The game combines stealth, RPG elements, and social simulation, offering over 100 quests, multiple endings, and a highly dynamic sandbox environment.
Players praise the game's deep narrative, fleshed-out characters, and meticulous pixel art style that brings the prison to life with vibrant detail and smooth animations. The gameplay encourages experimentation with combat, stealth, or persuasion, supported by a comprehensive progression system including crafting and relationship-building. While the 21-day time limit adds tension and replayability, it can also be a source of stress for some.
Though still in Early Access at times, the game exhibits remarkable polish and complexity, with plans for further content expansions. Its steep learning curve and punishing difficulty require patience but reward thoughtful play, making it a standout indie RPG experience for fans of narrative-driven strategy and stealth games.
Highlights
Players highly praise the game's engaging and methodical gameplay mechanics, including varied mini-games and a well-balanced combat system inspired by Punch Club. The pixel art visuals are described as gorgeous and meticulously detailed, with vibrant lighting and smooth animations that enhance immersion.
The storyline is gripping and multifaceted, featuring over 40 unique inmates with rich backstories, complex social dynamics, and multiple escape routes. The soundtrack complements the atmosphere, and the game’s depth encourages multiple playthroughs to uncover all secrets and endings.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the stressful 21-day time limit, which some players find punishing and restrictive, detracting from the enjoyment. The steep learning curve and resource scarcity can make early playthroughs frustrating, often requiring multiple attempts or guides.
Some narrative elements, such as romantic interests, are seen as underdeveloped or lacking mechanical depth. Additionally, the carry-over system in New Game+ is inconsistent for certain NPCs, and some players feel that RNG elements and combat balancing could be improved. A few players also find the overall tone occasionally tedious or generic.
Pros
- • Deep and engaging RPG mechanics with multiple approaches to challenges.
- • Richly developed characters with unique personalities and backstories.
- • Beautiful, detailed pixel art and smooth animations throughout.
- • Gripping, multifaceted storyline with multiple endings and escape routes.
- • Well-designed social simulation with meaningful relationship-building.
- • Varied mini-games and a satisfying combat system inspired by Punch Club.
- • Dynamic sandbox prison environment full of opportunities and danger.
Cons
- • Stressful 21-day time limit may reduce enjoyment for some players.
- • Steep learning curve requiring patience and multiple playthroughs.
- • Romantic relationship mechanics feel underdeveloped and shallow.
- • Inconsistent New Game+ carry-over for certain NPC profiles.
- • Some RNG elements and combat balancing could be improved.
- • Occasional tedium in dialogue and quest pacing reported.
- • Limited voice acting reduces character immersion potential.
Rating Criteria
Back to the Dawn is a story-rich RPG set in a high-security prison ruled by factions and buried secrets. Investigate two conspiracies from the inside, gather evidence, and outsmart a system designed to silence you. Make friends (or foes) with fellow inmates and with their help, break out of prison.
