Among all the variables in Redhook’s gruellingly brilliant sequel, the one that truly elevates it is hope. That nagging sense that the world could be better, even when it’s gone to the eldritch gods, manifests here in a vehicle and a flame. A lone horsedrawn carriage called The Last Hope transports you towards a claw-like mountain to save the world, mounted on its roof a dwindling torch representing all that remains of the precious resource. Should you die before reaching your destination – and you will, often – the flame lives on in candles awarded for your efforts that you exchange for upgrades, passing a little extra hope to the next band of heroes.
