Judgement: Recommended
View review on Steam
Yoku's Island Express offers a truly unique platforming experience that sets it apart from the crowd. In this game, you won't find traditional jumping mechanics; instead, you control a charming beetle equipped with a ball that allows you to enjoy pinball gameplay!
The pinball-style gameplay is both fascinating and enjoyable, featuring a smooth and engaging flow. While it does incorporate some RNG, the more you become accustomed to it, the easier it becomes to navigate the challenging pinball levels. It doesn't feel unfair; it's more a test of skill, aligning with what you'd anticipate from a platformer. A quick tip: don't forget that you're not just a passive ball; you can use the beetle to make adjustments when necessary.
The game's visuals and art style are adorable and fit the theme perfectly. The BGM complements the experience exceptionally well, creating a cohesive and enjoyable atmosphere. Personally, I found the main theme with vocals particularly captivating.
Completing this game to 100% can be a challenge, as expected from a title offering optional content. However, if you're not particularly concerned about achievements, I managed to finish the main storyline in 5.6 hours while working on other objectives. So it should take even less for those solely interested in finishing the game.
That being said, if you're like me and strive for all achievements, be prepared for a few frustrating moments. Some collectibles, especially those involving the usage of explosive slugs, can be a real pain to obtain. Also, here's a pro tip: as you play, make sure to activate all the scarabs you come across. Trust me, it'll save you from having to backtrack like I did just to find and activate scarabs in areas you've already visited. It can be a bit frustrating, so stay on top of it to make your achievement hunting smoother.
My sole complaint pertains to the game's lack of customizable controls. While the default control scheme isn't overly complex, I would have appreciated the ability to tailor them to my personal preferences right from the start, ensuring a more comfortable gaming experience.
The pinball-style gameplay is both fascinating and enjoyable, featuring a smooth and engaging flow. While it does incorporate some RNG, the more you become accustomed to it, the easier it becomes to navigate the challenging pinball levels. It doesn't feel unfair; it's more a test of skill, aligning with what you'd anticipate from a platformer. A quick tip: don't forget that you're not just a passive ball; you can use the beetle to make adjustments when necessary.
The game's visuals and art style are adorable and fit the theme perfectly. The BGM complements the experience exceptionally well, creating a cohesive and enjoyable atmosphere. Personally, I found the main theme with vocals particularly captivating.
Completing this game to 100% can be a challenge, as expected from a title offering optional content. However, if you're not particularly concerned about achievements, I managed to finish the main storyline in 5.6 hours while working on other objectives. So it should take even less for those solely interested in finishing the game.
That being said, if you're like me and strive for all achievements, be prepared for a few frustrating moments. Some collectibles, especially those involving the usage of explosive slugs, can be a real pain to obtain. Also, here's a pro tip: as you play, make sure to activate all the scarabs you come across. Trust me, it'll save you from having to backtrack like I did just to find and activate scarabs in areas you've already visited. It can be a bit frustrating, so stay on top of it to make your achievement hunting smoother.
My sole complaint pertains to the game's lack of customizable controls. While the default control scheme isn't overly complex, I would have appreciated the ability to tailor them to my personal preferences right from the start, ensuring a more comfortable gaming experience.
Review posted on 02/10/2023, 15:50:00.