Rarely does a game command both a distinct visual style and drive the character and player into a world through a compelling narrative, but fortunately, Bastion manages both. Developer Supergiant Games is based out of San Jose, CA and comprised largely of former EA employees, and last week at GDC I had the opportunity to interview creative director and writer Greg Kasavin about the title. I also played the game at GDC, where I was immersed in the world, and when I played it again at PAX, my initial thoughts were fully reinforced.

As “the kid” awoke from his slumber, the world around him remained in a dream-like state. Surrounding him were platforms that raised from the ground as the environment had him floating in the heavens, miles above the world’s surface. Walls rained from above, encompassing him within their boundaries. All the while, the hand-painted backdrops that remained out of focus further reinforced the notion the kid had never actually awoken. The story of the Bastion revolves around the construction a safe haven in the wake of the Calamity, a devastating event that shattered the world. Miraculously the adventurer survived, and is bound to journey into the unknown in search of supplies and survivors.

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