In the crass, pixel-laden world of indie platformers, Freedom Planet struts in like it owns the place, with all the flair of a 90s pop star. If you've ever felt nostalgic for the days of yore when Sonic was king, but were just a smidge disappointed in his recent outings, then buckle up! This game aims to scratch that itch with a blend of nostalgia and fresh mechanics that'll have you whizzing through worlds faster than you can say 'speedrunning'.
Freedom Planet offers a delightful buffet of 2D platforming that's reminiscent of early Sonic the Hedgehog titles, but with a twist-you aren't just running. Oh no, that would be too easy! You'll have control over three unique characters each with their own special set of skills and, of course, overly exaggerated personalities. You've got Lilac the dragon (who's totally not a hedgehog, thank you very much), Carol the wildcat who can ride a motorcycle (yes, you read that right), and Milla, the basset hound who might just be the most interesting character-if you enjoy cube-throwing and gameplay that feels like you're playing Tetris on steroids. Players must sprint, jump, and kick their way through beautifully designed worlds stuffed with robots waiting to be defeated, minibosses that'll surely ruin your day, and the occasional confused critter that'll make you question what kind of alien sensibilities order their lives.
Visually, Freedom Planet delivers a feast for the eyes. The graphics are an evolving love letter to retro aesthetics, blending modern polish with that sweet, sweet nostalgia of the 16-bit era. Expect charming character designs that wouldn't look out of place in a Saturday morning cartoon, and backgrounds that manage to feel vibrant and alive without giving you an acid trip! Whether you're dashing through sky temples or traversing mystical waterfalls, each level is bursting with color and detail, sparking joy in each pixel. With an art direction influenced by East Asian culture, the game's visuals stand out among indie platformers clamoring for your attention.
Freedom Planet is not just a game; it's an homage to the glory days of platforming with enough originality to make it a dignified title in its own right. While it hits a few speed bumps-such as length issues in some stages and dialogue that tries wildly to be clever but sometimes flops-its energetic gameplay and lovingly crafted aesthetics will keep you hooked. If you're looking for something that sparks joy like a pogo stick at a birthday party, give Freedom Planet a spin. Your thumbs will thank you (and so will your inner 90s kid). With a solid score of 8 out of 10, it's a worthy investment for those looking to relive the magic of classic platformers while enjoying a new adventure. Lattes and a hand-drawn map of your next speedrun strategy sold separately.