After being mostly disappointed with Runner 3, this return to roots was everything I wanted from the Bit.Trip Runner franchise.

Even though it is described as a remake of the original, it feels to me a bit more than that. They incorporated some concepts that were cut and basically created brand new levels for the game, it feels pretty new even if the visuals are mostly a reimagination of the setting.

The original levels are still recreated as bonus levels, and there are some more original levels based on other games of the Bit.Trip series. There is also a level creator but I haven't explored that side too much, I'm certain there will be great and then not so great levels.

I didn't expect much, but I ended up loving it. It feels like the sequel I wanted after 2, even if it is not all brand new and shiny.

A below average platformer, an average experience. Wavetale's aesthetic is almost cool, but ruined for me personally by a certain "crunchiness" that it has and the clunky nature of a lot of the animations (especially cutscenes). The controls feel fine in some aspects and annoyingly stiff in others, which clashes heavily with the aesthetic. Combat is a joke, which would be fine if they didn't try to pretend like it should be a significant component of the game. Alas, you'll find yourself mashing away your single attack over and over on one of the few enemy types.

I didn't actively hate my time with it though, despite my gripes. There are certainly parts of the game where the movement is satisfying but usually its more about the spectacle and less about actually feeling in control. Finally, the narrative actually charmed me quite a bit by the end despite the previously mentioned bad cutscene animations. I can tell the voice talent cared about making the characters their own, even if they aren't award winning actors.

This game is nearly impossible to recommend at the retail price of $30, but I won't say it's not worth a try in the future on sale.