In Focus: Kivi’s Underworld

The developers of Kivi’s Underworld don’t lie when they say that this game is a casual hack and slash game. It is so casual, in fact, that it sheds off the trappings of the genre in favor of grinding through a series of challenging dungeons.. with very little. Instead of doling out weapons and armor, players grind for potions and power-ups that serve as limited time specials that help you weather the perils of each and every area you’ll have to explore. Kivi’s Underworld is like the naked, abandoned brother of Depths of Peril; frugal in its approach, but abundant in challenge, and action, and replayability.

You play as Kivi, or one of his companions, as you get toe-to-toe with the growing threat of dark elf forces, stirring from their slumber, ready to bring about the destruction of the lumen people. You can do this as a fighter, a fire mage or 20 other classes available in the full game.

The demo for Kivi’s Underworld offers way more gameplay than it should, but it gives players willing to look past its rough graphics and simplistic gameplay system enough time to form an impression. For me, this game from the makers of Depths of Peril is more interesting for what it isn’t than what it is.

You can learn more about the game and download a playable demo by checking out the Soldak Entertainment web site.