Discovering the Charm of Sable
Elden Ring, a critically acclaimed game that captivated players around the world with its open-world exploration, may not be everyone’s cup of tea. With its challenging difficulty and debatable design choices, it leaves some players yearning for an alternative. Luckily, there is a hidden gem that rivals Elden Ring in terms of player freedom and relaxation: Sable, an underrated indie game from 2021.
Released in September for PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S, Sable uses an expansive open world to weave a captivating coming-of-age story. Unlike Elden Ring, combat is absent in Sable, allowing players to embark on a tranquil journey at their own pace. Whether you’re a fan of Elden Ring or simply enjoy the freedom of open-world exploration, Sable should be on your radar.
Embarking on a Mask-Filled Adventure
In Sable, players assume the role of the eponymous character, a young girl from the Ibex tribe residing on the vast desert planet of Midden. Tasked with collecting masks, Sable’s journey across the planet becomes an opportunity for self-discovery. The game’s distinct visuals and exceptional sound design create an immersive experience that rivals even the grand openings of Breath of the Wild and Elden Ring.
Midden’s deserts offer endless possibilities, with players free to interact with various characters, solve puzzles, and uncover the rich history of the world. The flexibility to explore anywhere right from the start, utilizing Sable’s floating ability and stamina to conquer any terrain, mirrors the hands-off storytelling approach cherished by Elden Ring enthusiasts. Every encounter with a wandering traveler or completion of a puzzle platforming challenge rewards players with a unique mask, further enriching the adventure.
A Relaxing Companion to Elden Ring
Sable mimics the strengths of FromSoftware’s Elden Ring, offering a captivating experience without the overwhelming complexity. Say goodbye to frustrating roadblocks and constant need for improvement. Instead, Sable indulges players with the freedom to chart their own course and pursue their desires until at least three masks are collected. While the game can be completed in a few hours, its multitude of quests and masks ensure that players can immerse themselves for much longer. Even with its minimalist aesthetic and user interface, Sable provides a quest log to keep players on track and engaged.
The true essence of Elden Ring lies not in its difficulty, but the world design that encourages exploration. Sable, alongside other remarkable open-world games like Breath of the Wild, grasps this concept effortlessly. Though it may have flown under the radar, Sable stands tall as a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With over 12 million players having succumbed to the allure of Elden Ring’s open world, now is the perfect time to revisit Sable.
Sable is available now for PC, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S, and is even included in Xbox Game Pass. Immerse yourself in the serenity of Sable’s open world and embark on an unforgettable adventure.
Image source: OnSpec Electronic, Inc
