Squirreltopia

If you prefer the tight-margin, frustratingly brutal, logical puzzle nature of platformers like Megaman 1, you will like this game. It’s not complex in terms of input (just d-pad and jumps), but the level design is surprisingly varied for how basic the different game mechanics feel. And the simplicity works in its favor. It’s a fantastic title for dropping in and playing for ten minutes while still feeling like you made meaningful progress. The unlockable mini games are a fun diversion, especially if you have friends who like to compete for high scores. And it gets really hard. Even before you’re achievement hunting, the game wants you to suffer - which only makes you want to beat it more. At its regular price, this is a five star game for people who are interested in less casual platformers.

A rare occurrence in these types of indie releases where the presentation is actually solid and even entertaining but the mechanics completely fall apart. It would have worked best as a music video render for the OST as it would spare people the trouble of having to actually play it.

I may as well get this one out of the way. Squirreltopia is exactly what you see in the trailer. There doesn't seem to be any story. There's some world-building in the form of some structures you can see, other squirrels you can talk to, notable motifs for given levels/areas, and the unique asethetic touch of the squirrel we control looking different after the previous one gets incapacitated, but that's it. If you're interested in a possible universe starring sapient squirrels in their own interesting world, hold out. Thankfully the creator never meant to communicate that this is that kind of game to begin with. Squirreltopia is a fast-paced, momentum-oriented side-scrolling platformer, that wears its tongue-in-cheek premise on its sleeve. The art style, the silly things said, and a general whimsy to the atmosphere help you understand this is just a game for game's sake not to be taken seriously. Platforming is very skill-based. It demands rather precise timing, with just the right amount of built-up momentum, to clear this or that obstacle or gap, collect this or that... well, collectible, and clear this or that room. That platforming could be very fun, but for two things, or rather but for *everything except* two things. In Squirreltopia, the only abilities it seems your playable squirrel has, is to run along the ground bipedally; and to jump. We cannot climb; we cannot stick to walls; we cannot chew through any obstacles. The only two things we can do are the platformer basics, and all these are for is clearing gaps. I know most folks won't mind this, but if you're like me and eager for an actual squirrel-game, once again, hold out. Squirreltopia's protagonists could be anything and it would still be pertinent. My let-down about the aesthetic aside, this limited control option just means that you can get this experience from quite a few other platformers available on and off Steam. "Love" and that one "N+" game come to mind. Each one only allows running and jumping, and each manages to something interesting with it- as, admittedly, this one does, in terms of momentum keeping. I've neglected to be kind to the level design, which definitely is conducive to the intended learning curve- and great frustration. If you're out to relax, and you emotionally invest heavily in whether or not you win the games you play, I don't advise this game. I have been a tad sharp here, but I cannot deny the charm. I still intend to try for 100% Steam Achievements as part of my search for closure. That is not without merit. -- If Squirreltopia were so much as fifty cents more expensive, I'd say don't bother. However, at its current price, if you're a 2D platformer enthusiast, and you don't mind simplistic controls and great frustration, I think it can be worthwhile. If you just are curious like I was, get it on sale.

♥♥♥♥♥!!!!!!!

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gaaf spel

Y'know, I got gifted this expecting a cute little romp, and I had more fun than expected. Relatively short, but with arcade-style difficulty when it wants it, plus some clever bonus games that can be unlocked partway through. That a bit of the platforming relies on building up some momentum to get through puts some more weight behind its simple controls. And of course, a fair bit of the charm comes from the game's visual style (aaaaa the little squirrels have randomized fur colours and facial features whenever you restart a level) and soundtrack. Cute, and deceptively catchy. It's easy to get sucked into a binge on this one.