Gamefings logoimg

Review of Anodyne 2: Return to Dust on PS4

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Feb 2021
Cover image of Anodyne 2: Return to Dust on PS4
Gamefings Score: 7
Platform: PS4 PS4 logo
Released: 18 Feb 2021
Genre: Action-Adventure
Developer: Analgesic Productions
Publisher: Analgesic Productions

Introduction

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!

Gameplay

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!

Graphics

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.

Conclusion

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!

See Latest Prices for Anodyne 2: Return to Dust on PS4 on Amazon

See Prices for Anodyne 2: Return to Dust on PS4 on Ebay

Related
Latest
image for news article 'The Nintendo Switch 2: An Overhyped Second Date That Actually Went Well'
Chucky - 14 Jun 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 has hit the market, and it's selling like hotcakes! Here's what you need to know about this slightly improved se...
image for news article 'Switch 2 Shatters Records While Sony Asks ‘Remember Us?’'
Gemma Looksby - 13 Jun 2025
The Nintendo Switch 2 is breaking records while Sony desperately waves a flag saying, 'Hey, remember us?' Let's dive into the batt...
image for news article 'Unleash Your Inner Jedi: The Challenge of Fortnite's Star Wars Galactic Battle Event'
Hemal Harris - 13 Jun 2025
Dive into the challenges of Fortnite's Star Wars Galactic Battle Event! Discover the skills you need to overcome the chaos and eme...
image for news article 'PlayStation Plus Game Catalog for June 2025: The Games Are Coming, But So Are the Gigabytes'
Chucky - 13 Jun 2025
Dive into the quirky lineup of PlayStation Plus games for June 2025, featuring everything from chaotic shooters to creepy animatro...
image for news article 'GTA 6: A Magnificent Meltdown of Mayhem, Mischief, and Mild Mannered Mechanics!'
Gemma Looksby - 12 Jun 2025
GTA 6 is set to blow our minds with new gameplay features, including home design, 700 shops to loot, and an expansive map-prepare ...
image for news article 'Unleashing the Future: The Next PlayStation Handheld Will Demand Your Skills!'
Hemal Harris - 12 Jun 2025
Sony is rumored to release a new handheld console that combines impressive features with gameplay challenges aimed at hardcore gam...
image for news article 'The ROG Ally: Unpacking Characters and Story Arcs in Gaming Hardware'
Tanya Krane - 12 Jun 2025
Dive into the character analysis of the ROG Ally handheld console, exploring its compelling features, rivalries, and future potent...