2/5 ★ – RANDYz_nRAGED's review of Endling.

Endling: Extinction is Forever is a unique indie experience that took me about five hours to complete, casting you as a mother fox navigating a world ravaged by pollution and human neglect. Its art style immediately stands out, resembling a beautifully illustrated children’s storybook. The soft, vibrant colors not only charm but also set a melancholic tone that complements the game’s environmental message. This isn’t your typical game—there are no puzzles, dialogue, or action sequences, which makes it feel like you’re guiding the mother fox through a living storybook. For players who enjoy chill, contemplative games, this could be a gem, but action enthusiasts will likely find it too tame. The game’s strongest aspect is how it weaves its narrative into the environment. As you progress through the 30-night cycle, the world visibly deteriorates—trash piles up, the world becomes more dangerous, and the landscape becomes increasingly bleak. This gradual transformation is a powerful way to highlight the real-world consequences of pollution, making the setting feel like a character in itself. The core gameplay revolves around keeping your cubs fed and safe while following scent trails to rescue a kidnapped cub. It’s a simple side-scroller where you roam, gather food, and avoid dangers, with the cubs’ unlockable skills, like jumping or digging. However, these skills feel underutilized, mainly serving as different ways to access food or bypass obstacles, leaving me wanting more. While I appreciated the concept, the story—or lack thereof—was a letdown. Most of the narrative unfolds through still-image “visions” triggered by scents the fox uncovers, meant to clue you into your lost cub’s whereabouts. Unfortunately, about 80% of the time, I was confused about what was happening, as these visions lacked clarity or context. The game’s attempt to raise awareness about environmental issues is admirable, but the execution falters, especially in the ending. Without spoiling, the conclusion left me deeply upset, and I wished for a more hopeful resolution to balance the heavy themes. This was a major reason the game didn’t fully resonate with me. Overall, Endling is a visually appealing, thought-provoking experience that succeeds in making you feel the weight of a dying world. Its simplicity and environmental focus will suit players seeking a relaxed, meaningful journey, but the lack of story clarity, limited skill mechanics, and a disheartening ending hold it back. If you’re drawn to games that prioritize atmosphere over action and don’t mind a bittersweet narrative, it’s worth a try. For others, the lack of depth and emotional payoff might make it a pass.