Ratcheteer DX

It's a short and neat adventure game. Positives: - The game just really knows what it wants to be and what it doesn't. You get great music, great art style, exploration, a bit of combat, some dungeons and their items, and some hidden chests. Everything is very doable. It's sort of the opposite of overwhelming, but without being boring. The progression is very fast and the added items (mostly movement options) open up a lot of paths quickly. Even though the game is only like 3-5 hours, it doesn't even feel like you're rushing though it. It's just very on-point 2D Zelda gameplay. Neutral: - I don't know if the darkness + lantern added anything to the game. It sure is something different, but it is rarely used as a mechanic. I think only by one enemy. Same with the alien language. It just sort of solved itself because I collected most chests that I encountered. Negatives: - A few parts of the game are badly designed. Of the 3 hours I probably spent 15 minutes just backtracking because I jumped in a well, couldn't go back, and it spat me out on the other side of the map (twice). Another 15 minutes because I couldn't figure out the sea puzzle.

A very simple and charming little game. If you like retro action-adventure games (especially the 2D Zelda titles) then you'll probably vibe with this one. Nice chiptune soundtrack as well. Controls can be a little janky sometimes but it's pretty forgiving and never felt particularly hard. It's also pretty short, which can be a positive or a negative depending on who you ask. I for one like these kinds of bite-sized games and will probably come back to this one again in the future.

I really enjoyed the Ratcheteer! I'm a big fan of the Legend of Zelda series and the Ratcheteer scratches that same itch, although it's not nearly as long as any Zelda game. However, it doesn't necessarily feel short, rather concise and free from grind. It's a compelling setting, lovely visuals, and the music is absolutely amazing!