Sand Land: A Post-Apocalyptic Adventure in the Vision of Akira Toriyama

The game “Sand Land,” developed by ILCA and Bandai Namco, is a testament to the vision of the late Akira Toriyama. As a beloved creator of classics like “Dragon Ball” and “Dr. Slump,” Toriyama’s legacy was protected by fans who eagerly awaited the release of his post-apocalyptic open-world game.

Set in a world reminiscent of “Mad Max,” where water control is a tool of subjugation, “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 game’s camaraderie among its characters drives the adventure, exploring themes of prejudice, exploitation, and trauma with a core of optimism.

The game’s robust vehicular combat system allows players to engage in battles using various vehicles with unique abilities and designs that evoke memories 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, but it provides diverse activities and missions that complement the main story. Overall, “Sand Land” serves as a testament to Toriyama’s storytelling prowess and his ability to create narratives that resonate deeply with players.