This game is probably the first metroidvania I've ever played, enjoyed, and finished. I loved the art style, the music was good, and the story was fine.

The gameplay though . . . The controls were tight and if I failed at something it felt like it was my fault. The pacing of exploration and power-ups was amazing. You end up with a lot of powers but I always had a handle on them because of the way they teach you and the frequency you use them in the area you get them.

There were collectibles and side quests but they're all optional and, frankly, fun to get. Solving the puzzles made me feel like a genius because I never usually engage with that aspect of games. I didn't look up a guide once. The boss battles were challenging but, AMAZINGLY, were doable. I found myself putting time into trying a boss or a jumping puzzle over and over without getting too frustrated.

The map was huge with a new area opening every time I thought I had hit the edge. The pacing was good enough that I was OK with it although I was shocked at the amount of content and play time I ended up putting in here.

I could have done with more fast travel points once the map got so big.