Pros:
+ a competent homage to classic 2D Zeldas
+ Lily is a memorable protagonist
+ colorful art style and impressive particle effects
+ a large overworld with lots of optional challenges
+ combat is snappy and satisfying
+ progress and pacing are swift and concise
+ difficulty curve is moderate enough
+ movement speed is quick enough
+ writing is quiant and flowery
+ meta-narrative elements offer surprising options...
Cons:
- ...but sadly appear to rarely
- item management is a bit cumbersome
- most NPCs have nothing interesting to say
- health replenishment system is a bit wonky
- the general design doesn't evolve much from the Zelda formula
- very little post-game content
Magic Moment: Chosing what enemies to fight on the overworld for the first time.
Playtime: 9 hours with most of the map explored and 13 hearts collected.
Verdict:
Blossom Tales is a competently made homage to the classic 2D Zeldas. It emulates the combat, overworld design, and exploratory nature of its forbearers well, but offers little in terms of innovation. While the meta-narrative is a unique twist, the different routes offered in specific situations only rarely affect the gameplay. Still, the colorful art style and flowery writing help in giving the game a distinct identity, and anyone interested in re-exploring the concise, streamlined action adventures of the 16-bit era will find plenty to enjoy here.
Play it and then play the sequel.
+ a competent homage to classic 2D Zeldas
+ Lily is a memorable protagonist
+ colorful art style and impressive particle effects
+ a large overworld with lots of optional challenges
+ combat is snappy and satisfying
+ progress and pacing are swift and concise
+ difficulty curve is moderate enough
+ movement speed is quick enough
+ writing is quiant and flowery
+ meta-narrative elements offer surprising options...
Cons:
- ...but sadly appear to rarely
- item management is a bit cumbersome
- most NPCs have nothing interesting to say
- health replenishment system is a bit wonky
- the general design doesn't evolve much from the Zelda formula
- very little post-game content
Magic Moment: Chosing what enemies to fight on the overworld for the first time.
Playtime: 9 hours with most of the map explored and 13 hearts collected.
Verdict:
Blossom Tales is a competently made homage to the classic 2D Zeldas. It emulates the combat, overworld design, and exploratory nature of its forbearers well, but offers little in terms of innovation. While the meta-narrative is a unique twist, the different routes offered in specific situations only rarely affect the gameplay. Still, the colorful art style and flowery writing help in giving the game a distinct identity, and anyone interested in re-exploring the concise, streamlined action adventures of the 16-bit era will find plenty to enjoy here.
Play it and then play the sequel.