Although In Death was released as an “early access” title in February 2018, you would never know that when playing it. The game is incredibly well-polished and artistry is some of the best I’ve seen in virtual reality. It’s positively stunning. In fact, you might be able to just sit back and enjoy the scenery except for all the evil things trying to kill you.

In Death is an archery-based roguelite shooter set in the afterlife. You are the single brave soul who has entered this place in order to restore harmony. The developers actually achieve a delicate balance in this game. Despite the fact that there are monsters, evil monks, and other demons about, it’s hard to miss the beauty surrounding you. That’s why the quality artwork in this game is essential. It literally envelopes you in such a way that you want to save this place and banish the evil.

Another thing I like about the game is the fact that each session is unique. Although there are similarities, the maps change up a bit each time you die and the developers have done a terrific job of adding new content on a regular basis. I still haven’t managed to make it all the way through the Pits of Despair without dying in the end, but I’ll keep trying because it’s a terrific challenge! As you progress through the game, you can also pick up “loot” (like special arrows) and earn achievements so even when you die, you feel like you’ve accomplished something.

At Gamescom in August, Solfar Studios announced that they were expanding the afterlife with a chapter called Paradise Lost. This comes as a succession of Purgatory and there will be new enemies to banish, including cherubs that attack from the air and banshees that use magic against you.

The expansion will be available once the game leaves early access on October 2. Among other features of In Death – Paradise Lost, archers will be able to use a crossbow, which will be useful in close quarter areas of the Sanctuary.

Previously, you have to deal with Anakim the Abominable, a formidable fight boss that only the best archers can defeat. In Paradise Lost, you can’t get through the exit until you defeat the Archangel Gabriel. Although he looks less intimidating than Anakim, something tells me this is going to be no easy battle.

In Death currently retails at $19.99, but will increase to $29.99 at full release. Anyone who already owns the game during early access will receive the additional content for no additional charge so if you’ve been putting off the purchase of this game, I wouldn’t wait any longer. Buy it now and save $10. The early access price is good until October 2.

Seated Option

One of the things I love about In Death is the fact that you can play this game seated. In fact, other than Echo Arena and Elven Assassin, I’d say In Death transitions more readily for seated players than any other VR games. I also love the fact that you don’t have to do anything special. My love goes out to developers that make it easy for people who must play seated.

Fitness Potential

Although the game doesn’t really provide a cardio workout, it will definitely allow you to develop your arm and shoulder muscles. Despite the fact that you face death and you’re killing enemies in the afterlife, it’s also strangely relaxing, which can a good way to workout while reducing stress, blood pressure, etc. I’ve talked with others who are losing weight, reducing meds, lowering blood sugar levels, etc. while playing VR games and it might seem counter intuitive, but even slower paced like In Death are increasing people’s fitness levels. Check out this article from VR Fitness Insider for a full review of In Death’s fitness potential.

Headset Support

Purchase

Suggestions

I would say this game is already a near-perfect single-player experience, especially if you enjoy archery games. There are leaderboards for the game, but I would love a multiplayer option with spectator mode at some point so that the game could eventually be considered for a VR archery esport. The folks at Solfar Studios are obviously expert game-makers. Let’s see if they can do that!