oxenbound

Oxenbound is a fantasy role-playing game developed by Shadowgate Studios and published by Red Moon Games. It was released in 2023 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. The game is set in the fictional world of Atheria, a land recovering from a devastating magical war. Players take on the role of an Oxenbound, a rare individual bonded with a mystical ox, granting them unique abilities and a deep connection to the natural world.

The core gameplay of Oxenbound revolves around exploration, combat, and a choice-driven narrative. Players traverse a vast open world filled with diverse environments, from ancient forests to desolate ruins, encountering various factions and creatures. Combat is real-time and strategic, emphasizing the synergy between the player character and their ox companion. Players can customize their abilities and their ox's skills, tailoring their playstyle to their preferences.

The narrative of Oxenbound focuses on the player's journey to uncover the truth behind the magical war and prevent a new threat from emerging. The game features multiple branching paths and endings, heavily influenced by the player's decisions throughout their playthrough. Dialogue options and quest resolutions allow for significant player agency, shaping the fate of Atheria and its inhabitants. Oxenbound has been praised for its atmospheric world-building, engaging combat mechanics, and compelling storyline.