I’ve been looking forward to playing Xeodrifter for a long, long time. I’m a big fan of Mutant Mudds, which I played on my 3DS XL *gasps*. I’m a sucker for 2D platformers (3D platformers BEGONE!) and this seemed like the perfect fit for me.
And mostly, this 2D metroidvania platformer IS the perfect fit for me.
I’m having so much fun with it. It’s challenging, but not cheap. This is something that I really like, and something that I feel sets Xeodrifter apart from other retro-inspired platformers (I’m looking at you, La-Mulana!). Most focus on creating an “old school challenge”, but honestly that’s something I rarely have time for anymore. I don’t enjoy it. It’s not for me. I understand its appeal, and respect it, but I don’t like playing those games.
Xeodrifter’s difficulty is just right.
I’ve seen a lot of people complain about how “slippery” or “floaty” the game feels. And it does. However, I don’t think it’s a bad thing. It’s definitely much less pronounced than in New Super Mario Bros. for DS, for example, and barely affects gameplay.
The music is really great. I’m a huge fan of chiptune, and although I know it’s starting to become the go-to for indie releases (which tires people out), I’m still up for a good tune-o-chip, as long as it’s composed well. And this is.
The game also looks good on my Vita 1001. Colors are crisp (specially the red), and the few XXI Century effects that are in the game give it a nice feel.
My only complaint is the performance. This is a very light game and the Vita has plenty of power. However, I’ve noticed some framedrops here and there. Nothing major, but it is noticeable (doesn’t affect gameplay) and I find it hard to understand why the problem exists.
I’m about half way through the game, and I’m enjoying it a lot. I love the rewards for exploring the worlds, I like the platforming, I like the music. The performance issues do niggle me when they appear, but it’s not too often, and it doesn’t affect gameplay, so I think I’ll survive.
Look out for a full review within the next week.
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