In 2017, THQ Nordic published Piranha Bytes' little-known gem, ELEX, an open-world fantasy/sci-fi hybrid RPG set in the far-off future on Earth. The prologue tells of a comet that slams into Earth, causing millions of deaths and destroying the modern world. The comet carries a new mineral called Elex, which can be used to enhance strength, power machines, and develop new weaponry.

As the old world crumbles, humanity needs to rebuild but eventually splinters into factions. There are the superior Albs, a technologically advanced super-policing force that consumes Elex to enhance their bodies. The Berserkers, who aim to dismantle old-world technology so that the planet may once again thrive, use Elex for its magical properties. There are also the Clerics, a religious cult that worships Elex technology, and the Outlaws, a nomadic people who believe in individual freedom and anarchy.

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Along with these very diverse factions, one of which the player must align with, ELEX also features a large open world filled with mutants, raiders, raptors, and mechs. While the game looks like a Skyrim-inspired fantasy realm, there are also crumbled highways among the trees and dilapidated gas stations and hotels from the old world buried within the greenery. ELEX manages to blend the post-apocalyptic atmosphere of Fallout with a magical land of mysteries reminiscent of The Elder Scrolls.

ELEX Gameplay

Like Bethesda's two biggest franchises, ELEX allows players to loot their socks off. With corpses, locked safes, lockers, desks, cabinets, and scrap piles located everywhere, the possibilities for looting are endless. There is so much to explore in the world and so much to loot, and the best part is that there is no carry weight limit.

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One of the drawbacks to ELEX is that the player has to play as the character of Jax, a former Alb who is rediscovering his humanity. While Jax is an interesting enough character, allowing players a character creation option would have been preferable. The game's story certainly could have allowed for it, too. Jax can use melee weapons and ranged weapons like bows and plasma rifles, and he can also use magic. Leveling Jax up can be a little tedious in the beginning, but it's well worth it when he can wield pretty much any in-game weapon.

Conversations in ELEX are decent, but they lack the polish of Bethesda's games. Though conversations are a little clunky, they're generally amusing and informative for the player. ELEX alters certain aspects of the story through select dialogue options, and it makes note of specific answers that Jax gives. If Jax slips up and tells a lie, word will certainly get around.

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ELEX Gameplay2

ELEX is undoubtedly challenging in the early areas of the game. With none of his strength-enhancing Elex in his system at the start of the game, Jax is squishier than an earthworm in a mud puddle to almost every enemy he encounters. Consider this a warning to players curious about playing ELEX: the beginning of the game is tough, and Jax will die a lot. The combat in the game relies on a stamina meter and alternating between light and heavy attacks to create killer combos. Jax's ability to dodge and roll out of the way, much like Dark Souls, is also essential in conquering his enemies.

ELEX looks and feels so similar to both Fallout and The Elder Scrolls that their influence on the small crew at Piranha Bytes is obvious. Fans of Bethesda's two big franchises should undoubtedly give ELEX a try, but they should remember that this game was built on a much smaller budget. The game is not perfect, but it is delightful and has plenty for RPG fans to enjoy: a little magic, some sci-fi appeal, tons of looting, and a good challenge.