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Review of Ikenfell on PlayStation 4

by Max Rathon Max Rathon photo Oct 2020
Cover image of Ikenfell on PS4
Gamefings Score: 7
Platform: PS4 PS4 logo
Released: 08 Oct 2020
Genre: Role-playing
Developer: Happy Ray Games
Publisher: Humble Games

Introduction

Have you ever wondered what happens in a magical school when the students decide to take a summer break? In the world of Ikenfell, it seems things get a bit out of hand—with disappearing sisters and an impending magical doom. This quirky, turn-based RPG serves up a slice of tactical action sprinkled with charm, humor, and enough magic to make Harry Potter jealous. Buckle up, because we’re diving deep into the whimsical realm of Ikenfell, where the save points are cats and the plot twists may just leave you purring for more.

Gameplay

Ikenfell places you in the shoes of Maritte Hildegaard, a teenage girl with the world’s most terrifying to-do list: find her missing sister at a magical school. As you navigate the enchanted grounds, you'll engage in tactical turn-based combat reminiscent of classic RPGs like Paper Mario, but with a twist. Combat happens on an isometric grid that’s as puzzling as your favorite uncle after a few drinks at family gatherings. Timing is everything—execute those attacks with precise button presses for maximum magical mayhem! Your party grows with unique characters, each boasting their own enchanting skills. Note that planning your moves is key—not just for strategy, but for bragging rights when your friends ask, "How did you defeat that creepy wizard?" Outside of the action, explore the vividly designed world, filled with puzzles that can turn even the sharpest tacks into confused rabbits. Your journey is set against the backdrop of well-structured areas with no pesky random encounters—enemies are visible and can even be avoided if you're feeling particularly cowardly. You’ll be fighting it out as you unlock familiar and new skills, balancing laughter and frustration like a juggler with a pet dragon.

Graphics

Visually, Ikenfell sports a whimsical pixel art style that feels like a lovechild between a cozy indie game and a Saturday morning cartoon. It's bright, colorful, and utterly charming—like the visual equivalent of a long hug from your grandma. The animations are smooth, and the character designs stand out, ensuring you’ll remember Maritte and her magical buddies long after the game is over. Set in a world brimming with whimsy and enchantment, the environments are cleverly crafted, making exploration rewarding. You might even find yourself pausing just to enjoy the sight of a pixelated butterfly fluttering by—because who doesn’t love a good butterfly? The pixel art, while simplistic, is handled with care, enhancing the overall narrative instead of overshadowing it, which is more than we can say for some other pixel art games that go overboard.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ikenfell is a solid RPG that serves up a delightful mix of storytelling, strategy, and style. It might not break the mold in all its aspects, but its charm and creativity make it worth your time—especially when you consider that magical school shenanigans can happen in the safety of your living room. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, and you might even freak out when you realize that your favorite enemy just turned into an even scarier version of itself. The tactical combat keeps it fresh, the humor keeps it light, and the kitty save points are the cherry on top of this fantastic indie sundae. For anyone who enjoys a good dose of magic, friendships, and—let’s be honest—fighting a demonic version of your school’s 'pet', Ikenfell is ready to cast its spell on you.

See Latest Prices for Ikenfell on PS4 on Amazon

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