Really enjoyed this and definitely would recommend - here’s some more thoughts:
Ashtory combines challenging combat and platforming with a semi-open world structure. The gameplay is pretty refined and addicting.
It’s pretty much linear, with a little bit of optional backtracking and some splitting paths. The world isn’t really interconnected and there is only one actual shortcut. It also has no mobility upgrades - only weapons… so it is only borderline a metroidvania.
That said, the gameplay feels good, the challenges are tough, and I had a pretty great time.