Feb 2021
Anodyne 2: Return to Dust! The game that feels like a fever dream after binging on too many retro games and wrangling a nostalgic slushie. You step into the ruby-red shoes of Nova, a Nano Cleaner tasked with saving New Theland from the menacing Dust. Sounds easy, right? Well, buckle up, because this isn’t just a cleanup operation; it’s an emotional and psychedelic ride through the squishy guts of various characters and their existential crises. Let’s dive into the colorful cast and unpack this delightful mess!
The game flips between a gorgeous 3D overworld and 2D dungeons where you literally shrink into people. Like a bizarre, touching version of Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, but with less Rick Moranis and more heart. Nova interacts with various characters, each with their own mini-story arcs that will make you chuckle, cringe, and occasionally question your own life choices. Gameplay wise, you'll explore, solve puzzles, and combat Dust monsters - which almost feels like a metaphor for tackling adult responsibilities. So if dodging household chores sounds appealing, this one's for you!
Visually, the game is like a love letter to the late ‘90s. Think PS1 vibrant colors but with an art style that makes you feel like you’re tripping on a mix of Skittles and lavender. The graphics successfully bring the world alive with quirky visuals that ooze charm, and are distinctly reminiscent of the gaming nostalgia you probably don’t talk about in public. It's a visual feast for those who revel in retro elegance, complete with pixelated splendor that makes you weak in the knees.
In conclusion, Anodyne 2: Return to Dust is like that strange relative who serves you existential crises along with a side of zany fun at family gatherings. Its character arc-driven narrative and beautiful-but-bizarre aesthetics come together to create a memorable experience. While some may find the gameplay a bit slow or repetitive - much like trying to convince your parents that you're 'studying' while on TikTok - the heartfelt stories and engaging characters make it worthy of your time. So grab a comfy snack and get ready to dive headfirst into the wacky, metaphorical rabbit hole that is Anodyne 2! Worth a solid 7 out of 10 - just enough to wash the Dust off your soul!
Another SquareThought Site