Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey
" Unique action-adventure RPG with evolution-based gameplay but clunky controls and bugs "
Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey Review
Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey offers a unique and immersive experience focused on evolution and survival as early hominids. Players begin as a monkey, exploring an open world with minimal guidance, learning to use tools, and evolving through generations. The game is praised for its originality and educational value, providing a fresh take on exploration and discovery.
However, many players find the gameplay repetitive and sometimes frustrating due to unintuitive controls, clunky AI behavior, and occasional bugs. The steep learning curve and lack of clear direction can deter some, though others appreciate the challenge and depth. Graphically, the game is visually appealing and atmospheric, but technical issues such as glitches and poor optimization affect the experience. Despite its flaws, the game is considered a hidden gem for those interested in early human history and evolution, with a strong recommendation to approach with patience and an open mind.
Highlights
Players highly praise the game's unique concept and originality, appreciating the evolution simulation and open-world exploration.
The visuals and atmosphere are often described as beautiful and immersive, enhancing the experience.
The educational value and historical insight into early human ancestors receive positive remarks.
Many enjoy the satisfaction of discovery and the challenge of mastering the game's mechanics without hand-holding.
The game runs well on various platforms including the Steam Deck, adding to accessibility for players.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include repetitive gameplay loops that can feel unfinished or tedious after initial hours.
Players report clunky controls and camera issues, making movement and combat frustrating at times.
The AI behavior of clan members is often seen as unrealistic and unintelligent, detracting from immersion.
Technical problems such as game-breaking glitches and poor optimization are frequently mentioned.
The steep learning curve combined with minimal guidance leads to confusion and reliance on external guides, which some find off-putting.
The ending is considered unsatisfying by several players.
Pros
- • Unique evolution-based gameplay offers a fresh and educational experience.
- • Beautiful and immersive graphics enhance the prehistoric atmosphere.
- • Open world encourages exploration and discovery without hand-holding.
- • Satisfying sense of progression through genetic evolution and tool use.
- • Runs smoothly on multiple platforms including handheld devices.
- • Challenging mechanics appeal to players seeking depth and realism.
- • Strong emphasis on survival and adaptation in a dynamic environment.
Cons
- • Repetitive gameplay loop can become tedious after initial hours.
- • Controls and camera are often clunky and difficult to manage.
- • AI companions behave unintelligently, reducing immersion.
- • Game suffers from bugs and occasional game-breaking glitches.
- • Steep learning curve with minimal in-game guidance frustrates players.
- • Poor optimization causes performance issues on some systems.
- • Ending feels unsatisfying and abrupt to many players.
Rating Criteria
Survive your evolution in Neogene Africa starting 10 million years ago. Ancestors: The Humankind Odyssey is a third-person open world survival game where you Explore, Expand, and Evolve to advance your clan to the next generation in the exciting new adventure from Panache Digital Games.