****** - Verified Buyer
4.5
It's probably fair that you know what kind of "gamer" I am -- casual, no attention span, get bored easily. I used to be really into games, both console and PC many years ago, but now in my 40s they just don't have the same kind of appeal to me. Until I found this game.On a whim, I downloaded the demo, not really expecting to like it. But I did, I was interested in it immediately, so off I go to buy the full thing. I was HOOKED.On the surface it looks like a medium to low difficulty platformer with cute graphics. Something good for a casual gamer at best, and I was a little curious why it was so expensive. But this one just keeps going. Not only that, but it grabs your attention and won't let go. What's next, where do I have to go? How do I solve this one? Etc.The platforming action is fantastic, there are definitely tests of your ability. There are RPG elements that will have you optimizing your gear. There are so many puzzles to figure out you'll be constantly put to the test. Do you have what you need right now, or maybe you'll have to come back? Which character is right for this part? Which gear do they need? The subtle clues left by the developers give you just enough to go on and make it fun, without constantly needing to look stuff up on the internet.It's not even that much of a grind, you won't spend hours farming gold until you decide that you want to finish it 100%. Then you will need to put in some time to obtain all the gear and finish all the puzzles, but even then, if you find the right place, you can get lots of gold fast.I can't ever find anything that'll captivate my attention for longer than a few minutes so this game was absolutely fantastic, it had me hooked from start to finish. Which for reference, took me about 42 hours to finish 100% (without looking up hints on the internet).I'll definitely be back to play this one again from start to finish before too long, I can already see the replay value. Pick this one up, you won't be disappointed.I'll start by saying that this game is a fun addition to any Switch library, ESPECIALLY if you are looking for an action platformer that has a good challenge, and balanced RPG elements.The hand drawn style of this game makes the graphics a thing of anime-like beauty! The vibrant colors make this world come alive so well, that you'll want to see more and more of it. But not all landscapes are pretty; there are sewers and caves that will make you feel claustrophobic, and to me, I was immersed in the world that surrounded my character.The music, is so wonderful! Almost all the music in the game will have you wanting to listen to more, and it all fits so well with the ambient around your character, it's easy to get lost in the world inside the game.Each transformation feels unique as well, and all play an important part in this game, so don't you worry if it seems your favorite transformation seems useless at first. Its time will come. Oh, and the story is full of emotions, and I found myself laughing at some things that happen to our hero, as well as how the menu is even affected at some point in this game.One thing I didn't like about this game is that there are some moments where the difficulty spikes get too out of hand, and can sometimes become frustrating and feel unfair. Moments like this happen mostly with bosses, but do not worry, as challenges can be overcome by studying patterns, and looking for safe spots, as well as getting the latest armors and finding abilities scattered throughout the game.I really really enjoyed playing this game and it was a treat to finally have a follow up to Monster World 4. You're treated to many different cameos and Easter Eggs from previous games in the time line. The world is not only bigger than previous games but biomes feel more naturally set in the world rather than sudden changes that caused immersive breaks. The flight from a lush sky city to a volcanic temple is amazing and possibly the best example of the great area based transitions.The combat is fun but harbors some of the games defects in that none of the weapons feel safe to use. While this is not an issue in itself, there isn't any way to overcome the weaknesses of close quarters combat (which I enjoy the most in games). There is nothing more awesome than being able to go toe-to-toe with a foe and know you are equally matched or weaker and have only your skills in close combat to gap yourself above them. This bit of satisfaction is missing from the game as most, if not all encounters, are mindlessly mashing to keep the enemy from touching you.Beyond the minor defect in the combat, this game is awesome and very enjoyable to play and experience. The bosses give you a challenge and the musical scores are top notch. If you hate action rpgs and love music, this game (just like Dragon's Trap) is a worth addition to your musical library.I am new to Metroidvania games. They are the think outside the box platformers. This game combines Zelda puzzle aspect with platforming. The best part of this game is it is rewarding the graphics are superb, and the game makes you think creatively. The music and the bosses are awesome, and this game is more innovative than Zelda Breath of the Wild. I love animal transformation. Imo this game is more rewarding than modern Level 5 rpgs and Square Enix rpgs. The secret in this game is that I cheated, is why I am saying I have no skill in Metroidvania games.This is such an overlooked gem for the Switch. Everyone with a fondness of retro games should give this game a shot. Not only is the game truly beautiful to look at with its handdrawn animations, it's also simply a solid example of a metroidvania game. There's a ton of secrets to find, cool puzzles and interesting bosses. Not every puzzle or boss are simple, but once you figure out the solution, it will feel really gratifying. All the different forms you'll unlock all feel great to use and add a lot of enjoyment to combat and the puzzles.Fantastic game. Feels retro but modern (if that makes sense). Incredible art style and level design. Great difficulty curve. Cannot recommend highly enoughWhat a game. Enjoying every minute a play it and in my opinion the best platform game on switchExtremely happyThe item wasn’t factory shielded
