Starting out life as an entry for a game jam back in 2015, developer Matt Makes Games (of TowerFall fame) has brought Celeste to Nintendo Switch as a fully realised action platformer. Popularised by fellow Switch indie Super Meat Boy - which was in turn inspired by designer Matt Thorson's freeware series Jumper - Celeste on the surface is another brutally challenging and fast-paced title. Traversing the titular and treacherous mountain by way of climbing, jumping and dashing over deadly traps, this formula is as popular as it is prominent on the eShop right now. Celeste does have more than a few tricks up its sleeve both mechanically and stylistically that give it a sure footing.
From the outset, it is clear that Celeste is a dangerous and hostile place, with a bitter cold and harsh terrain. However, there is a warmth and sincerity to protagonist Madeline, as she tries to reach her goal. In the early stages it feels like there is a greater, more personal journey that is waiting to be uncovered. She is vulnerable but determined. She doubts herself but supports others. Both you and Madeline will have to share determination and persistence to conquer both physical and personal challenges.
The game has plenty of atmosphere and tension, but there's also hope and the cathartic sense of self-discovery is rich throughout. Internal voices clash, text judders with emphasis, Seemingly innocuous warning boards mistakenly dismissed as scenery actually have purpose. The game deals with complex personal themes with refreshing candor and nuance.
Aesthetically, Celeste is a mix of myriad art styles, but they compliment each other well. The simple pixel art levels and sprites hark back to its roots as a demo developed in 'fantasy console' PICO 8. That's not to say they haven't been given a bit of extra polish, as the characters have fluid and varied motion animations, the backgrounds and weather effects feel suitably unforgiving and various mechanical platforms have a great kinetic energy.
Just when proceedings feel like they are going to get into a groove of familiarity in terms of location, things start to get a little otherworldly and surreal. From here, Celeste really flexes its graphical muscles, moving on from the expected snow covered trail to present new and consistently more vibrant fantastical locations, as well as some truly stunning vistas and set pieces. The chapter select is a low polygon 3D model of the mountain and is as equally charming as the in game graphics.
When Madeline interacts with the people she meets along the way, it's a different approach, as bold drawings convey a range of emotion and expression during dialogue presented at the top of the screen, and serene expositional illustrations document your journey beautifully. There's more emphasis on exploration in Celeste than most of its contemporaries, as hitting switches and finding keys to unlock doors that can be a fair distance apart.
Level design and controls are great throughout, especially when secret areas and more unique tasks are factored in. Combinations and routes may initially look impossible, but every death is a lesson so you can observe and fully exploit the environment with Madeline's move set. Whether you're utilizing the environmental elements, perfectly placed balloons or crystals to replenish your dash (indicated by Madeline's hair colour) or taking a breather on barley visible ledges, Celeste constantly feels more immense than its retro art style suggests.
Clinging to a wall within a pixel of your life, or spring boarding across a screen-wide chasm only to perform a perfectly timed dash to safety is incredibly satisfying, and with practise, the game rewards your ambition to take risks. The balance of timing, reactions, dexterity and momentum feel great, and it's clear that there's a hint of the hyper jumping mechanic that made TowerFall so good. Later, sparkling dream blocks refill both dash and stamina while thrusting you from one side to the other, and extra objects that effect your movement. We won't spoil what they are, but suffice to say that they are integral to both the narrative and gameplay.
There are two main types of collectibles on your quest to reach the summit. While the practical use of strawberries is pretty negligible, the temptation to push yourself and gather every last one is very gratifying. In addition, each chapter contains a 'b side' cassette tape, which is where the real challenge lies. Find it, and an even harder, alternate of the chapter opens. They are definitely worth the effort. Speaking of cassettes, Lena Raine's soundtrack is absolutely superb, with reflective and intricate piano being a particular personal highlight, as well as heart pounding grandeur during thrilling set pieces. Seriously, the soundtrack is best just experienced rather than explained.
The function of Madeline's dash may vary from simply making it across a gap to triggering switch or platform. The complexity of the levels you're playing might not be apparent early on, but they soon become sprawling and interesting puzzles within themselves, and sometimes it's just as crucial to see the bigger, sometimes intimidatingly challenging picture (through a well placed pair of binoculars) as it is to play what's right in front of you.
You'll have to plan your route meticulously a genuine sense of achievement that could even change your outlook on life/ challenges faced once you've put your Switch down. There's a big heart beating under Celeste's harsh and unforgiving exterior. There's a warmth to the characters and a personal conflict that's as resonant as it is relatable, with surprises at every turn.
While games in this genre have a reputation for their difficulty, the Assist mode in Celeste is a master stroke. Unintrusive, highly customisable and excellently implemented. Categorising elements of the gameplay that can be adjusted in a non binary manner truly can allow a balance between difficulty and accessibility. In fullAassist mode, you'll basically tear through the game for the story, as it's possible to slow down the speed, have infinite dash and stamina along with complete invincibility. The game is challenging enough to make you go to the options screen regularly, but perseverance pays off as you'll be missing out on a lot of what makes Celeste such a joy to play.
Mastering the game's precision timing and having lightning quick reactions will take a lot of patience and persistence, but it's worth every minute. With no aid whatsoever, Celeste as a game is a sadistically challenging yet immensely rewarding experience, to the point where you will want to put yourself through the hardships to reap the sense of satisfaction in an 'art imitating life' kind of way. While Celeste's tight and tough platforming is highly competent if a little familiar, it's the narrative and art direction that makes it truly special.
There are instances of true magnificence in Celeste, going beyond the core platform mechanics and it's all in the details. An exquisite balance of incredibly well designed levels, conscious effort to make it accessible while still having a level of difficulty and potential speed running community will salivate over.
It's a game of conflict. It's a heartfelt story of determination and self worth, with a cherished handful of eccentric characters, personality and a thoroughly enjoyable experience regardless of your ability. As accessible as it is relentless, as cute as it is harsh. The exposition, while candid and relevant, is a bit unevenly placed and affects the pace. It's a small niggle that it wasn't a bit more evenly spread out somehow, but that doesn't detract from its personal and emotional weight.
Conclusion
Celeste is an exemplary amalgamation of style, mechanics and character. A devilishly brilliant action platformer with enough skill required to excite genre purists and the speed running community, while at the same time featuring a breakdown of gameplay elements to customize and cater for all audiences. While the game mechanically is great, if familiar, the art style and narrative are truly special, showing both a visual and emotional range and depth that will resonate and inspire. Celeste is the absolute peak of personal exploration and discovery on Nintendo Switch.
Comments 167
I remember liking Towerfall a lot, so I was already looking forward to this. Glad to see it might exceed all expectations.
Got it last night and I'm loving it so far. Game excells in every category. And, what's this? Characters I actually care about? In a video game?
Game is bloody great. Best feeling movement and jump, I've felt in awhile.
It's brilliant, but Slime San it is not. Slime San is the best in the genre by far, especially on Switch.
Very interested, but still worried about off-putting difficulty. Assist mode doesn't sound like I'd want to try it, but I might have to get over that...
This game is pure class, couldn't put it down yesterday.
I want this badly but its scores so far make me hear the tiny pitter-patter of add-ons and a physical release further down the line, so I'll be waiting - impatiently!
This game is amazing
That's the score I was expecting.
Great review Jon! This game is now firmly on my radar. Not so much for the “10” but due to your thorough description of the gameplay.
Wow. This was not on my radar at all. I was gonna get super meatboy but may get this instead. Ah decisions...
Its reviewing well, but I find the price a bit off putting, given the variety of other, cheaper games I'm tempted by.
mmmmm...
This game couldn't be anything less than a 10/10. Enjoyed every second of the four hours I've put in so far. It's blown my expectations away, one of the best 2D platformers I've ever played.
Bought this last night and really enjoyed what I played so far. I haven't got very far though and have already missed a couple of strawberries. Loved the old woman laughing at me.
@Scottwood101 Slime-San couldn't lace Madeline's mountain boots.
will add it to my wish list. if no physical edition materialises after 6 months... I'll buy!
GOTY 2018
@Scottwood101 I respectfully disagree. Slime-San was a fun time, but the art style was hideous and the technical issues on Switch make it difficult to recommend over this.
@coxy100 Yeah I might do the same. This game sounds SO tempting to me. But people keep announcing physical releases literally a month after the original game comes out, so I think I'll wait a bit as well.
The real question is, is it better than Supah Mario Bruthas 2 baby, GOTY 32 years and running?
What is the difference between personal exploration and discovery and plain old exploration and discovery that other games have?
@Scottwood101 We are all entitled to our opinions, but that is insane lol
@bluedogrulez thank you! It really resonated with me personally for reasons I've only shared with the devs.
Hmm, now I feel kinda obligated to buy this. 10/10, I didn't expect that, judging from the gameplay movies I saw.
@Scottwood101 I came to make the exact same comment, Slime-San is awesome and the aesthetic of meat boy and the controls do not appeal to me. Slime-San and the way it keeps developing the game mechanics level after level is truly impressive and free dlc coming soon? Bargain. Tough as nails too. Love it.
@CanisWolfred Towerfall is among my favorite co-op games when I have friends over, but this game never really interested me. I guess because it seemed like a standard platformer, but guess I'm going to have to give it a look now.
I played the first two chapters yesterday and instantly fell in love. I can't wait to play more today.
@OorWullie I'm glad you like it. I would've felt bad if you didn't since you bought it based on my experience with it.
@OorWullie He doesn't have arms Wullie!
@xPH03N1Xx86 Haha nice one. That explains why then.
Whoa. This is.. unexpected. I think I'll definitely be picking this one up.
I wasn't even going to bother with another platform now. It has a lot of critics swooning., but I'm going to put it on my wishlist until I beat a few games. I have been slacking on Skyrim. I have not even opened it yet. I also prepurchased Cyrstal which can wait. I'm at the end of Ys: Order of Celestia. Although, it looks like an instant classic my backlog will take precedence. I know this game is going to be good. I am just all platformed out for now.
I kinda expected this game to be great. So, looking forward to trying it out.
It’s a great game, was expecting a 9..
Game is difficult though so be prepared, my only gripe is that I get tired having to hold the r trigger down, as it needs a slight extra effort to hold it down.
Other then that I am enjoying dying countless times to finally find a way and then smash the level.
Oh for goodness sake. I can't get this now, I have too many other things to play. Nope, not getting it. No Celeste for me, no, no, no, no.
[Opens eShop, hits buy] Damn.
omg getting it.
If it weren't for the great reviews it's getting, I would have easily overlooked this game.
Another perfect score! IGN gave it a 10 too. I’m loving it.
Great review! Certainly looking to pick this one up in the near future, though I might wait for the inevitable physical release. The write up could do with a proofread though.
I was picking it up either way but the great reviews made it a day one for me. I have yet to play it but I will dive into it this weekend. I hate to say it but I'm glad I didn't pick up Meat Boy again. I don't think my controller could take these type of games back to back.
The problem is, I'm not a big fan of super tough games. This seems like fun but I'm worried I would pay $20 for it and then only play it for a few hours and get frustrated.
@8itmap_k1d Slime-San has technical issues?? That’s news to me, after dozens of hours of play.
Anyway, Celeste looks great, I’m sure it’s lovely, but it still looks like another formulaic 2D game that iterates on the formula without innovating like a real 10/10 game (i.e. Odyssey*) should.
To me like it is riding some kind of weird supercharged overfueled hype train right off the edge of a cliff. Get ready for YouTube thumbnails in three months that say “Celeste secretly SUCKS!”
Wow I’ll have to give this another look. I mean I was interested already but i wasn’t hot for it for a Day 1 buy! I read the difficulty was insane so that was one reason...so I grabbed 3 of the 4 classics yesterday instead!
@Scrummer You can change the difficulty
The footage from The Download clip the other day was what made me take notice of this game.
@Scrummer I haven't tried out the assist mode settings as the game is the perfect level of difficulty for my liking but it seems like everyone should be able to adjust the settings as they see fit to make it an enjoyable experience. I'd suggest giving it a go, it's a beautiful game.
So it’s better than xenoblade 2 ....... reviews are getting silly. Looks great and all but 10 outa 10 🤔
@BenAV @Megal0maniac Well that just completely changed my opinion of this game, and I am very happy they did that. I'l probably pick this one up now (Also, the dev doesn't seem like the guy who would block off bits of the story just because someones playing on an easier difficulty)
I downloaded this last night after hearing it had a good narrative in addition to very tight controls and was blown away by how good it is. It might be the best indie game on the Switch yet.
@bluesdance I played a review copy, and it suffered from crippling slowdown. Maybe it's been patched since, but at the time it was unplayable at times.
@sandman89 This is one of the most deserving games of a 10/10 on the Switch so far for mine. But so is Xenoblade Chronicles 2 for what it's worth.
@sandman89 I hope you aren't suggesting that their opinion is... wrong.
@sandman89 nothing silly about it at all. The game is very different to Xenoblade - you can't compare them as they are different genre.
Now THIS is a 10/10 quality review. Bravo, Jon!
On another note, this also makes me wonder about ratings being affected by difficulty. Cuphead was given lower scores by some due to high difficulty. (Undeservedly low, in some notable cases.) Celeste is at least as difficult as Cuphead in it's own way, however, most reviewers so far see past the raw difficulty factor and understand what makes solving each problem rewarding with every screen. Celeste is more cerebral than Cuphead, and I think that's an important point. Celeste is special because you need to use your head and your reflexes, not just your reflexes.
@sandman89 Traditionally, NL has stated that different platforms and genres have different standards. So a large scale JRPG like XB2 has different standards upon which to score it than an indie platformer like Celeste. The score rating is not a 1-1 comparison of qualities between all titles. (Yet another reason why the numerical scoring system for Metacritic money needs to be abolished...)
Not my game. Seen the video it just doesn't work for me. But glad people enjoying it
Wow wasn't expecting a 10! Guess I'll add this to my wish list then.
But of course I won't buy it yet, gotta wait a few months just incase they decide to announce a physical version in the future.
I'm surprised at the high score. Looks like a fun but fairly basic platformer.
@8itmap_k1d are you sure you weren’t holding down the slow motion button? but srsly if you still have access to the game you should apply patches and try it again. it’s fun
@Paperboy don't worry. Whilst each obstacle is incredibly difficulty upon first approach, it doesn't take long to work out what combination of button presses and timings are required to overcome them. Some rooms can take 10 minutes to clear but you never feel as though its the games fault that you keep failing. You always feel as though 'you can do this'. Think Shovel Knight if you've played that.
@WaitroseDad64 throw Slime San into the equation too, in my opinion the best of the three. So much content for a small price. Think there's a demo?
Having seen it get a 10 on IGN I was fully expecting this. Didn't know anything about it before today, but now feel it would be rude to ignore it.
@8itmap_k1d I appreciated the unique art style, it instantly made you aware of what areas were safe and those that weren't. Some of the mechanics and ideas were incredible and never seen before as far I'm aware. The amount of content was staggering and the boss fights were very creative. As for technical issues there was a couple of times the frame rate dipped but not enough to make me die or anything. I personally think it's the best value for money game on Switch,
@sandman89 in your mind what constitutes a perfect score? Because to me it has nothing to do with aesthetics or budget. Just because it's little 2d platformer, it still has to execute its ideas perfectly and originally. If you have the same amount of fun and spend dozens of hours with it then Pong could be a 10.
A very nicely written review @Eigotaku
This is going to the top of my extra long wishlist.
And there you have it, the inflationary use of retro raphics has apparently made it 'okay' to release games with ugly graphics and made it possible for them to score a 10.
Don't get me wrong, Super Meat Boy was an excellent game (for an indie platformer without a real story) but for a 10 it would have to be near-perfect, which includes modern graphics.
Just to make myself clear: I'd give a game like Super Meat Boy an 8, while a game like Limbo would get a 10 because of the graphics and the atmosphere it creates. But can't create an atmosphere with pixelated graphics and sprites, at least not in 2018.
I'd say this is now on my radar along with Chromagun.
@NintenNinja16 It's pure garbage compared to Supah Mario Brothers 2 Babeeeeee! Game of the year every time!
Does anyone know if this is supposed to get a physical version?
@NewAdvent Ugh, too true... Probably be at least a month or two before I can squeeze enough into the budget to pick this game up. MH World today and DQ Builders in February are already slapping my wallet silly.
@Scottwood101 Thanks! I did play through Shovel Knight and it got me pretty frustrated I think it may help to tell myself I don't have to rush through it before I start (Celeste). I'll put this on my wishlist for now, see if they announce a physical edition at some point.
This will definitely be on my list of games to try.
@shani Just so we are clear (cause I'm not sure if I'm reading sarcasm or not). A game, in your opinion, can only have a 10 if it has modern graphics?
And you certainly can create an atmosphere with visuals that aren't high production or over the top. Theater productions do it all the time if you were to compare it to much more glossier TV and film productions.
So... Celeste is a genre buster and must play. Wow... 10/10-- I DEFINITELY did NOT see that coming. My initlal reaction was it looked interesting from the artwork, then I saw the gameplay, and I kinda went "Oh, another tough-as-nails-platformer", which is not really my cup of tea. But after reading this review, learning you can adjust difficulty, and finding out the story is endearing as I hoped it seemed will put this right back on my wishlist. Only caveat is I'm going to wait for a sale. As much as it's a must-play, I must-watch my wallet for now and finish beating some other games I'm entrenched in first
"Celeste is the absolute peak of personal exploration and discovery on Nintendo Switch."
So this game has dethroned Zelda BotW already? Man, you guys at NL are really fickle.
@HauntedNostril Exactly. Whenever a great indie hits the eShop now, I hunker down and wait for the inevitable physical release. At the very worst, I'll have a ton of great games to play at the end of the Switch's life.
@beazlen1 thank you, I appreciate it! It is objectively an excellent game, but also had a personal resonance I have only shared with the dev. 😊
So this is just as good as Breath of the Wild and Mario Odyssey?
I have my doubts, somehow.
@PlywoodStick thank you!
@Nincompoop
they are completely different games, and yes, breath of the wild was as personally impactful to me as Celeste. Don't look at it as 'dethroning'. I reviewed BOTW as well (not for NL) and I can explain the differences both technically and thematically. BOTW was reviewed last March by a different reviewer.
You lost me at “brutally challenging “
There's a typo in the review
"In fullAassist mode, you'll basically tear..." just wanted to point that out. Lastly I'll definitely have to check this game out. Dunkey's review along with the high scores and some 10/10s really made me interested in trying this game.
Never been this excited to pick up an indie game before. It looks like an old-school Super Mario game but on steroids. Amazing and challenging level design, cool new dash mechanic, and an engaging and emotional story with immersive music to back it up. I'll be playing this when I finish up my backlog... hopefully just a couple weeks!
Game is a total ten in everyway. Also, Yooka-Laylee take note, THAT'S how you do an aggressively attractive version of RARE speak.
@Fake-E-Lee Said perfectly. Within the first 15 minutes playing this I'm like, "oh this will be one of my favorite ever games that I buy on this console."
this game is a wonder. already dropped a few hours in last night. it deserves aALL the praise. there is nothing that isnt top notch here.
@Fake-E-Lee I just might take your word on that. Reviews have been off the charts and I'm a sucker for challenging sidescrollers and good emotional stories. There's a very high chance I end up putting my credit card into the eShop tonight!
Well wallet...here we go again.
Geez, and I was down on it because of the 8 bit style. Well, if its a perfect score I should give it a try.
I think this game has already shown it's worth the 10/10 by just looking at this comment section. There are always people who say that the game in question doesn't deserve the score it gets but here, most of the comments are positive and agree that it's a phenomenal game. It's worth every penny.
Wow. Well if this is that good, I want a physical copy. Switch brought me back to physical games, those cards are just so adorable.
WHOA! I know what I’m picking up real soon....THIS!
Now I want to get this. But I still haven't gotten Stardew Valley, so now I have to choose one...
"brutally challenging" is a huge of YMMV. For example, I thought Mutant Mudds is basically unplayable because it is so hard, but Shovel Knight wasn't that challenging at all. And I hear different reactions to this game too.
I have been following this game since I saw it on the SwitchForce YouTube Channel and since everyone seems to be raving about it I consider it a must get, only issue is I still have many unplayed games on my Switch that are equally loved!
@PlanetaryNebulae I don't know what your tastes are but between these two, as good as this one looks Stardew Valley was so enjoyable for me that I consider it an essential purchase, it has a ton of quality content to enjoy. Luckily both of these games are cheap for what is being offered, just give the nod to Stardew.
@Fake-E-Lee "don't ask how many I've actually finished cause you only need one hand..."
⓪_⓪
I usually avoid side scrolling platformers like the plague but the reviews this game is getting is making me think otherwise. It sounds promising.
May put it on the wishlist at least.
I am absolutely loving this game... I will say the B-Side levels are borderline impossible though. I have spent hours on chapter 2's and have hit a room that I truly think I will never beat. I want to quit to the menu and try it later but am terrified that I will have to start the whole thing over and that would break me. Does anyone know if it saves mid world progress if I move on to another part of the game?
@Fake-E-Lee I have no doubt I will love it haha
For anyone interesting in Celeste OST
https://radicaldreamland.bandcamp.com/album/celeste-original-soundtrack
Got it downloading now... I did so on the back on this Steam review:
https://twitter.com/MDKII/status/956832934631178240
To be honest, I'm surprised at all the 10s this game is receiving. I never expected a game of this genre to do so well.
Personally not entirely my kind of game, but that's good to see it doing well.
I’m not surprised nintendolife gave it 10. I was shocked when IGN gave it perfect 10. Fortunately there is no too much water in it. 😁
... So I bought a game and loving it. Funny thing is that it’s a challenging game but not once I got frustrated playing it and repeating sections every time I got killed. And I got plenty of deaths. Over 400 just on chapter 3.
Great game and highly recommended. Much better then super meat boy imo.
There’s really something special about Celeste. The best jumping simulator platformer game I have ever played
Can't wait to pick this one up later today. Dunkey has a great review of Celeste that came out yesterday, I would recommend checking that out as well if you haven't yet.
There are some amazing retro style games for this year, I can see at least 2 more getting these ten out of ten scores
@Fake-E-Lee I'm with you.I played it last night for a little while and really enjoyed it but I didn't get very far. I decided to start again and something just clicked with me. It's an incredible experience. I've only made it to part way though chapter 2 but this is real top drawer stuff.
Agreed about the Switch too, it's a special console. I love the thing! The only game I've finished is Retro City Rampage DX. I was so close to beating Wonderboy but I got stuck and gave up. I'll get back to that one someday. Seems like you've been even busier on it than me though. 120 games? I've only got a measly 88
Wow a 10/10 that is not a Nintendo game, this is a first for the year.
@Paperboy I turned on Assist Mode, although I didn't use it in-game yet (other than to unlock all the worlds to see all the content). The Assist Mode settings are brilliant IMO, since you can tweak a certain setting, or just turn on Assist Mode for a specific screen where you have difficulty proceeding.
It's a hard platformer, but the environment you play in is very player-friendly.
@Alucard83 how no one says faceless characters like the granstream saga is a weird pink elephant in the room. I can stick to path through the forest or ghoulboy on my phone.
I knew this game would get a 10 before I even read the review. Predictable score for a pixel art indie platformer with the same ridiculous hardcore challenge gameplay that we have seen time and time again. Somehow doing the same thing over and over makes a pixelated indie game perfect these days.
I am tired of it. Hard pass on this one. It is too ugly and the gameplay is totally not for me. I don't trust any of these reviewers anymore.
I give this review 10/10
hmmm... doesn't look as interesting as the platforming in Steamworld Dig 2.
I’ve been burned on a few games lately, and not sure I want to take a chance on this one. Wish more games had demos.
Don't really think I'm much of a fan of these games. Saving up right now for all the games coming in Spring including the Labo but I might grab this sometime.
I don’t know... It seems like a extremely tough and stress inducing game...
A 10 is outstanding but still I’m not sure it’s for me...
I don't post much, but am an avid reader of the content here. I've only seen a few 10/10's over the past five years of following this site. This game hits the mark! There's many fantastic reasons why this game deserves any and all praise. Anyone on the fence about taking the plunge with Celeste should do so immediately.
"barley visible ledges" Yummy.
I don't get it. This guy appears to have a decent vocabulary. So why can't he be arsed to proof-read his articles at least once? As always, there are tons of stupid typos in this one. At least there is still an editor to proof-read it. Oh, snap.
Another hype-inflated 10/10.
This game is phenomenal both in control and in stage design. Deserves to be listed along with platforming masterpieces such as SMB3 and DKC2.
I have just one complaint about the review though. A couple comments are made about the mechanics being "familiar", but I disagree. The stamina climbing mechanic is something I've never seen in a 2D platformer. I consider it pretty revolutionary. Much better than games like Slime San or Meat Boy where you're [removed] bouncing on the walls to climb.
@maruse @Scrummer @Paperboy
To those concerned about the difficulty, there are some important things to keep in mind.
1. The hardest platforming involves collecting the optional strawberries. The game tells you early on that these are only for bragging rights, so you can totally ignore them if you wish.
2. Unlike most other hardcore platformers, Celeste doesn't feel nearly so punishing thanks to new checkpoints after every bite-sized challenge. You never have to flawlessly overcome a lengthy gauntlet of challenge in one go.
First off, the review was very in-depth I'm sure and I appreciate the effort, but somehow I didn't understand much of it; it kind of felt written in a different language and then Google translated to English. Sorry Anyway, 10/10, cool. Didn't see that coming.
Wow, a perfect score! I just can't bring myself to get it though. I'm just so so done with this art style that every Indie developer is doing now.
Yeah, this is getting universal praise and is clearly a stand out. Just went to the top of the backlog.
I played this yesterday. I didn't expect much until the part where you learn the dash... and then I was hooked.
The hype around this game is unreal, people are talking about it being Goty. I know nothing about it at all so i'll have to look into it.
LOVING it so far. In the same day I got Monster Hunter World, I purchased Celeste to take a break from World... I didn't put it down until 5 hours later. I can't remember a video game hooking me this bad since Wind Waker HD (my first Zelda experience). If you have a switch, get this game oml.
Okay, I got it, and it really is a marvelous game. The music is great, the controls are incredibly intuitive and responsive and just feel generally very nice, and the overall charm is incredible as well. It can certainly be tough on some parts. Absolutely one of the best feeling platformers I've ever played. Very deserving of a 10/10 score. That is, if the length of the game is good enough as well. I'm not too far in quite yet.
Definitely will get it in sale. Low on entertainment funds right now
This game is fine, but eh, I don’t know. 10? I don’t agree. The End is Nigh and (especially) Slime-san are way more enjoyable if you ask me. I haven’t tried Meat Boy yet, but as an End is Nigh fan, I’m sure I’ll like it. Anyway, the two biggest things this game has to separate it from other games in the genre are the story and the art style, and honestly, I think the story just gets in the way/hurts the pacing and I think the game is kinda ugly.
It’s not bad, and I’ll definitely keep playing (I just finished chapter three this morning), but unless things improve a ton, I wouldn’t say I’m too impressed.
@JayJ Even if you don't trust the reviews, the overwhelmingly positive user comments should be an indication that this game must have something special going for it. You'll notice some members above are calling it one of the best games they've ever played or best indie they've played. Plus it's getting 9's and 10's across the board from other review sites, , some of which are saying it's already a game of the year contender.As for myself, I don't even normally like these 'hard as nails' platformers but this one just has a certain magic. I'm also an average skilled gamer but I'm finding myself pulling off the kind-of moves that other games of this kind would have me banging my head against a wall and giving up, never to go back to again. The real challenge in this game comes from the collectable but they're doable. The actual game itself though isn't that hard. It's tough don't get me wrong, but not crazy hard.
@OorWullie Well I appreciate the feedback, gives me something to think about and your experience with it is very welcome, thanks.
I am just very weary of these kind of indie platformers is all. I have seen a number of them that get solid 8's, 9's, even 10/10's before that I have had a very hard time enjoying and getting into. Maybe there is something special about this one, but I feel like I am justified to remain skeptical knowing how video game critics tend to overrate them. Luckily there is word of mouth feedback like yours that can reassure me how this isn't just video game critics getting pretentious. I guess I might consider it but I am definitely not feeling the excitement when I look at it.
@Scrummer I’m the same way. However I do love games with good atmospheres and this has loads of options to make it easier. Like other commenters, the across the board critical acclaim is driving my interest .
@JayJ I feel like that about Shovel Knight . Too hard for me ...
@OorWullie your description of your gaming self is pretty close to how I’d describe myself. You’ve swung me though. Help my
Wallet and help me boab
@NewAdvent You say that as if the Switch isn't a shoddy port magnet.
@KeeperBvK You've hit the nail firmly on the head. The reason the reviews are becoming sloppier is because the editor is unable to proof-read them. He can't even proof-read his own articles before posting them, even after four weeks in the position. How anyone can become an editor when they fail to have a basic grasp of grammar is beyond me. I guess the NL overlords decided to go with experience over talent this time...
Looks like another run of the mill indie game. Pass
@Jack_Goetz Welcome to video games journalism in 2018.
@shani I'd argue against your claim that 8-bit or 16-bit graphics are inherently imperfect, but you wrote "inflationary use of retro raphics", which, even if you correct the typo, is literally meaningless. It just doesn't make any sense whatsoever, so I'm not too worried that anybody who thinks logically will be swayed by any of your obviously untrue claim.
This game is truly superb. Amazing platformer..
Played it for a few hours, and I can confirm this is legit.
Had a few frustrations, so maybe more of a 9/10 from me, but it does have the quality and enough content to justify the $20 and then some.
@PlywoodStick you can't be serious. Celeste is WAY more accesible than Cuphead. Cuphead is so tough from the very beginning is very, very annoying. Celeste starts fine, it gets hard as you progress, and specially if you want to get everything you'll have a hard time, but if you're just completing the game, it never gets annoying.
They're very different genres anyway. You can't compare them.
Sounds pretty good. But it is 30 USD in Switzerland while only 20$ almost everywhere else. So waiting for a sale to take it.
@Reaast It's possible to buy from Eshop's in different countries. I'm from the UK and used to being charged more than other countries. I buy a lot of games from the US Eshop but it's not so easy to set up,you need to have an address in the US for one. However there is a simple way to buy from other countries. The South African Eshop is one of the cheapest. You just need to make an extra Nintendo account and set it to that region and for payment use a company called Revolut. They're brilliant. Safe and simple to set up, free to use, no foreign transaction fees and live exchange rates. Well worth a look as it'll save you a lot over time.
Wow! A 10/10? I am not usually one for these super difficult platformers. Getting killed in the same spot 27 times because I am a couple pixels off on a jump is a big turn off. I fully admit I am not a great precision platformer. But assist mode and such a rave review, I think I will pick this up!
I feel like the price is a bit ... ahem... Steep. I have a hard time paying $20 for a Pico-8 game. I know it’s much more than that but...
So... When is Towerfall coming to Switch?
@jwfurness
Damn straight - I will always love and play games, no matter which way the market goes, but I grew up with the tactile and substantial feeling of owning and collecting physical copies. I understand about resources and costs and what not, but A.) I have yet to find a digital game that hasn't cost me more than a physical release, so the sums just don't add up, and B.) there's something underwhelming about having my games just floating in the ether, ready to expire at some games company's sanction, especially should my console go arse-up somewhere down the line.
I already miss the days when used to sit on the bus back from town reading a sweet, chunky, instruction booklet. It was all part of the magic.
.....and I just realised how old I am, waaahhhhh!
Liked the look of the trailer but wasn't expecting a 10/10. Cool, a must buy.
Ok so i tried this game due to the insane hype around it.
Not for me at all.
@Fake-E-Lee That's Peter Murphy (from Bauhaus, in the opening scene from "The Hunger"). Switch is probably my favorite material possession too, aside from my Voicelive Touch 2/PA set up (wish I played guitar - I just sing around more talented musicians and run karaoke nights here and there). Celeste is my 89th game (not counting demos/pre-orders). Got addicted to sweating out a release, instantly buying it, playing it once and not coming back to it, for awhile. But it's kind of really nice to know it's all there. But games like Celeste, SW: Dig 2 & Heist, Odyssey, Kingdom Battle, Mighty Gunvolt, Blaster Master Zero, Golf Story, Mummy DeMastered and Axiom Verge - could not put down until I beat. (actually have some Mummy and Axiom left). Celeste though is indescribably better feeling than most things I've played in many many years. So full of life and hard without being hateful (so far). Like I even adore the RARE speak take on Madeline's voice.
This game is a 10.
I am really disappointed with this game, it is not what I was hoping for. Honestly I don’t understand the hype. Each their own I guess.
Celeste on Switch received raving reviews, including a 10/10 on this site. As a fan of 2D platformers I couldn't resist and bought this on day one. Boy, what a disappointment.
My main issue are the controls. This is an old-school type of game and precise controls are necessary. I had no problems to 100% Shovel Knight or to complete Super Meat Boy, but with Celeste I really lost my cool. This game does something wrong with detecting directions on the left joy-con. I calibrated them several times, thinking the problem is on my end, but once I jumped back into other games, everything was back and spot on. Only Celeste has some terrible detection and throughout the game I always felt like I was fighting the controls instead of the level design. I don't know how it performs on the Pro Controller and I don't care. As a Switch game it should be enjoyable handheld and that it is not!
My other main issue is the pacing. Every chapter increases in length and it doesn't match the story. It becomes tedious by the last chapter and after the main story is completed, it still keeps throwing levels at you with varying difficulty. My mind kept on going "STILL not finished?!"
Difficulty is also not increasing steadily. Even in the last chapter, some of the rooms are a breeze (if the controls are recognized correctly) and the next second you are facing an almost impossible to beat hurdle.
Another issue is the music. Wow, it's annoying. At first I just thought "not my style, no problem." I turned the music down in the options and let it play in the background. But it gets really upbeat at the end of the game and that is where you will be spending most of your time. This chiptune crap is not music. It is annoying and nothing more.
I am sad to say that when finally completing Celeste, I was not feeling rewarded or perceived any sense of satisfaction. I was only happy to get it over with.
This is just my subjective opinion. If you have a bad taste in music and like emo stories of schizophrenic characters, you might find more enjoyment out of fighting terrible controls and jumping in the wrong angle time over time again.
Played the first two chapters, and I gotta say I love it so far. Deep, interesting story, great music and lots of deaths. What's nice is that the game doesn't make fun of you for dying, it just pats you on the back and says try again. It's perfect for pick up and play on the Switch. I dig it.
@Fake-E-Lee Haven't experienced the wind yet. Haven't actually beaten the hotel yet (super close), because once I discovered the PICO-8, in-game-retro version of Celeste, I played that for 2 days.
I love the music and story and how you are chased by your self-doubts! It is perfect pick up and play for switch since it saves every room.
I just completed this phenomenal game with approximately 55 strawberries. It definitely lives up to the hype, but I was a little disappointed in the ending. Without spoiling anything, can anyone confirm whether there are alternate endings depending on how many strawberries you collect?
Wow... am I the only one that didn't liked the game?
One of my favorite games of recent memory.
@Scottwood101 i loved the slime san demo! That cute bird on his head is cool. Some really freaky characters aswell. I should pick the full game up!
This game is 3/10 for me. It looks like the developers went and created a game with the least amount of effort. I have no idea how it got all the positive reviews. Even Mario 3 has a better sense of place than this, and that game is decades old. Celeste is nothing but a collection of rooms that frustrate the hell out of you.
To be honest, I'm starting to get tired of these overrated indie games. Celeste sucks. Steamworld Dig 1 and 2 are decent at best. Hollow Knight is almost good, but nowhere near as good as the genre greats such as Metroid Dread.
I think Celeste was the last indie platformer I ever buy. They are just not on par with the AAA games, but I still think they should be scored against all competition.
@modular
No, you're not the only one. It's garbage and I have no idea what people see in it. Actually, looking back at this comment section, it seems many of us are baffled about its alleged allure.
Picked it up for $5 and while it is a really great game, I'd say more of an 8.5/9. It's definitely not as gorgeous in most places as they make it sound (hotel is just ugly) and the controls aren't as perfect either.
The music is great though and snagging a tough berry on your 90th try does feel pretty good.
This game is an absolute masterpiece. I picked this up on sale a few months ago for £4 and it’s one of my favourite games of all time. The level design, art style, soundtrack and game mechanics are exceptional. It effortlessly manages to interweave all of these aspects into a story that is truly heartwarming and moving. It deals with emotions such as depression, anxiety and self deprecation in such a poignant matter. This game is tough as well. Some of the latter levels take skill, patience and determination…. Which perfectly echo what the game is conveying through the character development of Madeleine. This is a must play and one of the best games on switch in my opinion!
Poor mechanics; unsat. No idea why the reviews are so good. This was a complete waste of $5.00
This is my favorite game of all time
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