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Review of Horace on Nintendo Switch

by Tanya Krane Tanya Krane photo Oct 2020
Cover image of Horace on Switch
Gamefings Score: 8.5
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 21 Oct 2020
Genre: Platformer / Metroidvania
Developer: Paul Helman and Sean Scaplehorn
Publisher: 505 Games

Introduction

Grab your controllers, folks! We're diving into the charming chaos that is 'Horace.' Here's a game about a sentient robot trying to find his place in a post-apocalyptic world-and honestly, who among us hasn't struggled to figure out where we fit in? Whether you're a jaded gamer or a curious cat, get ready to explore a world packed with humor, heartfelt moments, and some surprising gameplay twists. Grab some snacks-this review is about to get deep.

Gameplay

'Horace' struts its stuff with an enticing blend of platformer and metroidvania stylings. Picture this: you're not just jumping on platforms; you're doing it as a robot in a pixelated paradise, where every bounce might lead you to existential enlightenment or, more likely, a painfully sharp spike of doom. Controls are smooth, which is fantastic because you'll need all the precision you can muster to avoid those ever-popular traps and spikes. Horace doesn't just level up with upgrades; he gets emotionally deeper (or just plain confused) as he navigates a world filled with quirky characters that continually challenge his understanding of life and existence. Expect a range of gameplay mechanics that throw the rulebook out the window! From racing mini-games that'll have your heart pounding faster than a final exam cramming session to rhythm sections where you channel your inner rock star (or your inner early 2000s Dance Dance Revolution fanatic), 'Horace' keeps you guessing like your friend who can't decide where to grab dinner. Collecting trash might sound like the most boring mandatory quest ever, but it's surprisingly satisfying-think of it as your own little foreshadowing of adulthood! Can you clean up a million units of rubbish? Because that's the goal, and it's a collectible you'll want to add to your résumé of gaming achievements. Plus, if you mess up gifting Horace with infinite lives doesn't end in a game over-he just gets a cheeky teleport back to the last checkpoint, making frustration a thing of the past. 'Horace' is not just a side-scroller; it's a journey through life resembling the ups and downs of a roller coaster that you can't quite get off of and, guess what? You'll secretly love it.

Graphics

'Horace' sports a pixel art style that would make even the most nostalgia-driven heart swell with joy. The environments are colorful and beautifully crafted, showcasing a blend of charm and sadness that reflects the narrative's heartstrings perfectly. It's like stepping into a warm hug, assuming that hug is made of pixelated animations and lovingly crafted scenes that represent a post-apocalyptic world without feeling overwhelmingly bleak. Each scene you traverse brings a sense of wonder and discovery; it's like a trip to an art gallery-if all the paintings were alive and had a quirky sense of humor. If you're longing for something to break the monotony of the hyper-realistic graphics flooding the market, 'Horace' is your delightful ticket to pixelated paradise.

Conclusion

'Horace' is more than just a game about a lovable robot on a quest for self-discovery; it's about laughter, lessons, and the absurdity of existence packaged into a delightful indie masterpiece. Paul Helman and Sean Scaplehorn created a world that resonates, whether you're dealing with life's big questions or just trying to dodge spikes in a game. With engaging gameplay, memorable graphics, and a narrative that tugs at your emotions like a pro, it's hard to look past its charm-even if your controller may take a few hits along the way. If you're a fan of quirky adventures that provide both humor and thought, then pop 'Horace' onto your Nintendo Switch. Settle in, grab that million trash clean-up quest, and embrace a delightful journey that's both fun and, in an odd way, reflective of our bizarre existence. Would I say 'Horace' is the best platformer around? You bet your pixelated behind it is, and it's time for you to join the adventure!

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