Dustforce is one of those games in which every piece of it compliments its whole. The serene soundtrack keeps players calm and focused, while they master complex, technical, lengthy stages. Menus are optimized to activate the moment you press the button, even before the menu visually appears. The replay and leaderboard system put others to shame and should be adopted by all time-attack games in the future. Level design with strong variety in length, difficulty, and layout. Enemy behavior is deterministic, preventing frustration while adding gameplay variety and excitement in opposition. Completing a level evokes a mix of relief and joy, particularly due to the immediately available replay, in which players can admire their handiwork and reflect on how they grew to get to where they are. The skill ceiling is high with this one, but the open-ended level unlock system and custom levels should give beginners enough content to make the plunge worth it. Dustforce DX is not only my favorite 2D platformer of all time, not only my favorite platformer of all time, but my favorite game of all time. Please play Dustforce.

Reviewed on Aug 07, 2021


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