ENDER MAGNOLIA Releasing in March

One of the more enjoyable 2D Souls-likes in the last few years following Hollow Knight and Blasphemous is Live Wire and Adglobe’s ENDER LILLIES. Announced last Wednesday, during the third-party Nintendo Direct, a sequel has been in the works for quite some time, it seems. ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist is set quite sometime following the events of ENDER LILIES, with both man and machine roaming this dark fantasy apocalyptic hellscape. Now, less than a week after the announcement, there is an Early Access release date set for later in March.

Ender Magnolia is set to release on PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch later this year. However, the PC Steam Early Access release of ENDER MAGNOLIA: Bloom in the Mist is March 25th (26th in Japan). This is what the Press release has to say: “Fight for the salvation of both man and machine in the once-flourishing Land of Fumes, where immense magic lies beneath the soil. As mind-altering toxins exude from underfoot, only Lilac, an ‘Attuner’ capable of cleansing blighted beings’ souls, can bring peace to those suffering in the kingdom.

With the help of the Spirit Reaper who fights at Lilac’s command, slash through legions of Homonculi — artificial intelligence beings tainted by the vaporous contagion. Set bosses free from the shackles of corruption, and regain their allyship to access 30 different spirit abilities including brute strength fists, rapid-fire [G]atling guns, and auto-attacking beasts — each with their own strengths, weaknesses, and cooldowns. Discover hidden collectibles, equipment, and relics from more prosperous times, including stat-boosting amulets and bracelets offering more health, increased attack power[,] and enhanced abilities. Visit the Blacksmith’s storefront to collect and trade gold in for upgraded items.“

The press release ends on a note about the soundtrack: “Whether in the cold, dungeon-filled depths or exploring castle peaks, bask in a beautiful hand-drawn landscape complimented by the relaxing tunes of fan-favorite musical group Mili (Ghost in the Shell [and] Goblin Slayer). The gorgeous ENDER MAGNOLIA soundtrack will become available for purchase at a later date.”

Speaking on the upcoming Early Access release, Hiroyuki Kobayashi, publisher Binary Haze Interative’s CEO, had this to say: “We cannot thank our online community enough for the feedback and support they provided for ENDER LILIES. ENDER MAGNOLIA will evolve with the help of our amazing players, and we look forward to this new journey with them into the Land of Fumes.“

I think I can speak for Alexx and myself when it comes to ENDER LILIES, in that we loved the world and the aesthetic that Adglobe and Live Wire brought to this dark fantasy world. We might just have to fight to the death over who covers it in the coming weeks as we request a key for ENDER MAGNOLIA. To say I’m excited about Bloom in the Mist‘s release would be an understatement, and I can’t wait to see what more is to come from this beautiful Metroidvania series.