Polish matters, and this is especially true in the genres where it matters the most. However, some studios make this their testament during development, with some high-profile examples including Blizzard, Naughty Dog and Rockstar. However, Owlboy has reminded us this can be present in the indie space too. It’s been development for ten years, matching 2016 salvations such as The Last Guardian and Final Fantasy 15. So, does this commitment stick to the overall picture or fall through?
Gameplay:
Owlboy switches it’s story significant in the second half, but this has an interesting effect on the gameplay, for better or for worse. First of all, the game utilizes more of it’s systems, which seems to slow down progression. This is disappointing because your skill is presented in the strongest manner when you’re able to have the most upgrades, and not when you’re relying on the same old trick to make by.
However, the game has sufficient variety so these negatives aren’t always that apparent. There’s stealth, chase sequences, and even dialogue thrown into the mix, which is always warranted in a game like this. It’s also admirable to see that the game doesn’t follow the trend of being overly challenging, as that could have taken away from the game’s well-developed personality.
Story & Design:
Story-wise, Owlboy adds a lot of traits to it’s characters to make the story all the more compelling and personal. However, this isn’t forced, and contributes to the well-written character development and story arcs. None of this is done with voice acting, which is all the more impressive.
If you haven’t been able to tell already, the way Owlboy conveys it’s narrative is natural, even in relation to a charming aesthetic and pixel art graphics. These successive contrasts are rarely seen in indie games anymore, but Owlboy is willing to take the risk, becoming all the better for it.
Presentation/ Visuals & Audio:
Owlboy’s graphics excite the more you play, as there’s always an effective pop in each environment. Character and enemy design commit to the same distinctions, and other touches are done to commemorate those who appreciate the genre the most.
Soundtrack wise, the game packs a lot. Each act contains a beautiful arrangement of around two to three instruments, but they flow beautifully with the actions you’ll be performing. In fact, there were so many effective moments surrounding the score, that I soon lost count.
Conclusion:
Owlboy isn’t perfect, but it goes the extra mile in the most important places. This develops the game to have a heart like no other, and considering the turbulent year, this is one shining gem that is sure to brighten up people’s prospects.
Owlboy gets a 8/10 (Very Good)
We’d like to thank D Pad Studio for giving us a code!
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