Evergate is a haunting 2D puzzle-platformer set in a stunning hand-drawn vision of the Afterlife with an original score recorded by a live orchestra. Navigate 85 challenging stages and unleash the extraordinary powers of the genre-defining 'Soulflame' to help a lost soul reincarnate on earth!
The core of the game's puzzle-focused gameplay revolves around the "Soulflame" mechanic. Players can slow down time and precisely aim a beam of energy at white surfaces called "The Source". Firing the Soulflame at these surfaces activates various environmental objects and platforms, which players must strategically manipulate to navigate through each challenging level.
As players progress through the 10 distinct worlds, the game continually introduces new applications and twists on the Soulflame mechanic. Each "book" of levels focuses on a particular expansion of this core mechanic, such as mastering the timing of Soulflame shots or chaining together multiple crystal effects. This constant introduction of new puzzle elements keeps the gameplay fresh and requires players to adapt their strategies.
The levels feature multiple paths and solutions, allowing players to experiment and find creative ways to reach the end goal. Collectable "Essences" provide optional objectives that reward exploring alternate routes, encouraging replayability as players revisit levels to discover new approaches.
Further expanding the game's replay value are the "Artifacts" - equippable items that grant the player various situational abilities and modifiers. These Artifacts can dramatically alter the way a level is approached, creating opportunities for speedrunning and allowing players to tailor the experience to their preferred playstyle. Strategically swapping Artifacts between attempts adds an additional layer of depth to the puzzle-solving.
In addition to the puzzle-solving, the game also requires tight platforming skills from players. Many levels feature demanding jumping sequences that require precise timing and execution to navigate successfully. This balance of puzzle-solving and mechanical dexterity contributes to the game's satisfying, skill-based gameplay loop.