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Review of Iris and the Giant on Nintendo Switch

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Nov 2020
Cover image of Iris and the Giant on Switch
Gamefings Score: 8
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 05 Nov 2020
Genre: Collectible Card Game, Role-Playing, Strategy
Developer: Louis Rigaud
Publisher: Goblinz Studio, Maple Whispering Limited, Mugen Creations, Plug In Digital

Introduction

Welcome to 'Iris and the Giant' - a game that's not only about fighting inner demons but also about using a deck of cards to smack them upside the head! Picture this: a young girl named Iris who navigates her anxiety and depression through a whimsical world of strategy and battling. Think of it as if Monopoly and therapy joined forces to defeat the actual devil on your shoulder - a solid two-for-one deal if you ask me.

Gameplay

'Iris and the Giant' combines RPG elements with a collectible card game format, which means you'll be shuffling cards faster than your brain can process why that test was so hard. Players are dropped into Iris' metaphorical world, starting with a limited number of cards representing attacks and defenses. You'll grid your way through various battles against hostile (and sometimes judgmental) demons, which may or may not resemble people you know - just kidding... kind of. The combat is strategic and involves a fine balance of offensive and defensive cards. Picture this: your friend Frank might turn into a demon by stealing your snacks while you're preparing for battle. You can wield an axe to take out a whole row of enemies - perfect for when Frank shows up with that ravenous look on his face. The beauty of 'Iris and the Giant' lies in its roguelike nature; if you take a dirt nap in the game (which means death, not an actual nap - save those for later), you'll come back stronger, with more cards and abilities earned from your previous attempts. Yes, just like life, but with better soundtrack options. (Seriously, the soundtrack is a treat!) With over 51 cards to earn, you'll feel like a magician by the end, channeling your inner Harry Potter minus the broomstick. What's cooler is the 'steal card' system where you can enhance your deck by taking cards from defeated enemies based on who you crushed during the battle. Defeated that skeleton in a duel? Welcome, Shield Card! Every battle feels rewarding because you unlock new powers to tackle your demons further along the way. It's like being rewarded for your therapy session with ice cream afterward.

Graphics

Visually, 'Iris and the Giant' is a heartfelt journey wrapped in a gentle art style that feels like flipping through a beautifully animated storybook. The graphics boast a polished yet whimsical charm, portraying Iris and her journey through a world filled with vibrant colors and enchanting designs. Character designs are unique, bringing to life the demons that symbolize the various struggles people face-talk about a deep metaphor! It's like the developers took the phrase 'put your heart into your work' quite literally, ensuring each level and character radiates personality and mood. You might even want to snap a few screenshots for Instagram - art and mental health, now that's influencer material you can rally behind!

Conclusion

'Iris and the Giant' is a playful yet poignant piece of art that doubles as a solid card game experience. It's a game that doesn't shy away from serious themes like anxiety and depression, but it does it in a way that feels approachable and entertaining, making it easier for players to relate. It's the kind of game that will pull at your heartstrings while simultaneously making you feel like a strategic genius. If you're a fan of card games or RPGs, or just someone looking for a cool way to explore inner struggles without putting the remote down, 'Iris and the Giant' deserves a spot in your gaming library. Just make sure to keep some snacks handy; you'll need the energy for all that card-shuffling, demon-slaying fun!

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