Imagine a world where anthropomorphic animals zoom through brilliantly designed levels, fighting evil robots, and collecting shiny objects - oh wait, it's not a dream, it's Freedom Planet! Developed by GalaxyTrail, this game is a throwback to the 90s era of platformers that'll make you feel nostalgic and possibly even question why you're still wearing those same Sonic the Hedgehog pajama pants you've had since age 5.
Freedom Planet offers three different characters to choose from: Lilac (the dragon), Carol (the wildcat), and Milla (the basset hound). Each comes with unique abilities, like speed dashes, pouncing on enemies, and summoning magic shields that give the game a variety that keeps it fresh. Players zip through levels filled with loop-de-loops, ramps, and lots of bad guys trying to ruin their day. Unlike Sonic, we've ditched the rings and replaced them with red leaves that refill our health. Players get to battle mini-bosses and bosses at the end of each stage, further mixing things up with well-timed action sequences. The pace is quick, and overall, the control feels smooth, but don't be surprised if you find yourself screaming at your screen while trying to conquer those jumping puzzles. Just know, frustration is part of the fun!
Visually, Freedom Planet strikes a balance between vibrant colors and charming character designs reminiscent of classic 16-bit titles. The East Asian-inspired aesthetics breathe life into its various environments, from mystical forests to sky-high castles. Backgrounds are filled with intricate details, making it a feast for the eyes, and despite its cartoony appearance, the animations are fluid, giving characters life and personality. It's like a visually stimulating candy store, minus the stomachache - unless you gorge yourself on too much gameplay, then it's game over for your thumbs!
Freedom Planet is not just another platformer; it's an ode to the golden days of gaming. It successfully combines fresh mechanics with nostalgic throwbacks, capturing the essence of the genre while offering something distinctly unique. Sure, there are quirks - the pacing can occasionally feel off, and the plot can feel like a bit of a snooze-fest during the long cutscenes. But lovers of platformers will find it hard not to enjoy what Freedom Planet has to offer. So, dust off your Sega dreams, put on your gaming gloves, and get ready to zoom through the challenges that await you. The only real question left is: will you be playing as the dragon girl, the wildcat biker, or the overly serious basset hound? Choose wisely, my friend.