After 4 attempts across PC and Switch I have finally beat this game. It isn't perfect, but the more you engross yourself in this world the more the technical and gameplay quirks work themselves out.

The mapping system was definitely a turn off for many people. The early game is punishing in a sense, especially following the default path. Team Cherry, please...exploding homing missile enemies are not fun! The game doesn't really sell how open the game will be until after you get Mothwing Cloak. Some of the combat can definitely seem unfair and losing your Geo can be a huge frustration.

But sticking with it was one of the best decisions I've made. Being on the same terms as the game design and world, you can really start building a dialogue with your path. There is a ton of flexibility with the charm system and combat options. The flexibility in your path allows for some dynamic world-building leading up to the titular boss fight.

Speaking of world-building, I can't get enough of the underlying story and the huge variety of insect friends and foes you meet along the way. It's this world-building that ends up being the game's ultimate strength.

The music is very serviceable. It fits the landscape of this destitute kingdom quite well.

I want to say this is my favorite "Metroidvania"...it feels right. There is a lot more meat than the ingredients of this word-sandwich of a genre. Not as tight as it could be for sure, but for as small as this development team was it is a testament to their talents. This is already a fairly popular release but give it another decade and people will be singing it's song loud.