Riding into the Post-Apocalyptic: A Look at Sand Land’s Vehicular Combat and Storytelling

“Sand Land,” a new open-world game developed by ILCA and Bandai Namco, has high expectations to live up to as it follows in the footsteps of renowned creator Akira Toriyama, known for his classics like “Dragon Ball” and “Dr. Slump.” Despite the added pressure of Toriyama’s sudden death in March, fans have rallied to protect his legacy. To their delight, the game proves to be a competent adaptation of the source material, showcasing Toriyama’s genius and featuring an entertaining vehicular combat system.

Set in a post-apocalyptic world reminiscent of “Mad Max,” where water control is a tool of subjugation by the powerful, “Sand Land” follows unconventional heroes led by Beelzebub, a prince of demons, alongside Sheriff Rao and Thief as they search for a hidden spring in the desert. The camaraderie among these characters drives the adventure while exploring themes of prejudice, exploitation, and trauma with a core of optimism.

The game is envisioned as a sequel to an original manga from 2000 but stays true to Toriyama’s vision with the inclusion of Ann, a mechanic with a mysterious lineage. The robust vehicular combat system allows players to engage in battles using various vehicles each with unique abilities and designs reminiscent of Toriyama’s creations from “Dragon Ball.” However, other game systems such as hand-to-hand combat and stealth aspects lack depth and variety in enemies and AI.

Despite its flaws, “Sand Land” offers an engaging experience with memorable characters and impactful storytelling. The open world may not be fully fleshed out yet but provides diverse activities and missions that complement the main story. Overall, this game serves as a testament to Toriyama’s storytelling prowess and his ability to create narratives that resonate deeply with players.