The Malice Kingdom

Xbox controller wasn't supported so I reluctantly went with its mouse and keyboard controls. Exploration is needlessly frustrating. There's a 'map' option on the pause screen but it doesn't work (perhaps obtained later in the game) ..which is a pity, because the game is pretty maze-like, with lots of different exits and entrances. Music loops are far too short (and therefor aggravatingly repetitive). Controls are a little wonky. Visuals look nice/interesting sometimes but many screens look very samey (another factor that makes me wish I started with a map). Can't say the game has done much to ingratiate itself to me, I don't want to endure any more of it.

Honestly, bought this game as a joke. Saw it in the new steam releases and though I would give a small developer game a try. It was short and sweet. Did not over due it and gave me about what I think it should have. 8/10, but worth a play

i did le bleeps and blips and boops for this pixel moving thing

eww

Big PP

I am not sure if I am perhaps overrating this by giving a positive since it's a rather janky game, but one I feel does just enough to be memorable over several others which come across as much blander. I overall enjoyed my time with it and do think there's potential for a pretty good game in here. Anyways, this starts out seemingly being a Soulsvania, and while there's obviously a fair bit of influence there, it really doesn't do either of its influences all that well. For starters in the Metroidvania side, two and a half areas and three (four if you explore a bit) bosses in you've gotten all ability upgrades in the game: a horizontal dash and a less than satisfying wall jump (of the infinitely spammable variety). After that you are free to go pretty much in any direction you please with a fair bit of the map being technically optional. Areas are intentionally rather mazey with several routes being redundant (map pickups are available within each area, either plainly or sold in a couple of cases), though checking nooks and crannies can lead to nice discoveries. As for Souls influence, the game can be punishing, but exploring does reward you with a large amount of upgrades. The we…