Sometimes the key to success is coming up with innovative new ideas, and breaking through the barriers of traditional expectations, but there’s also nothing wrong with knowing precisely what you want to do and doing it reasonably well either. In an eShop full of 3D action titles that adhere to the classic mascot platformer format, or try to come up with something that’s simply different, this offers up an exploration-focused affair that peppers in combat, but wisely seems to understand not to overplay that hand since it’s also probably the game’s weakest element.

Given the fact that this is a title that’s only coming to the Switch 2 within the Nintendo ecosystem, I suppose it shouldn’t be surprising that on the whole it has a great look with some terrific character design in particular. Especially among its peers in the eShop, this feels like a title where there was a greater focus on helping the game look like it belongs on more powerful systems, though I’ll note that on occasion when things got intense that could also lead to a little slowdown. Regardless, once you’re dialed in you’ll find the platforming and traversal to be satisfyingly crisp, backed by a slowly-growing list of new skills that can be acquired as you progress.

What helps sell the quality of the platforming is what ends up being stage design that feels filled to the brim with alternative paths and things to grab. What I appreciate is that the majority of things you’ll find are merely tied to your in-game currency and not a bunch of random collect-a-thon baubles to find but never really have use for. While some of what you’ll find is simply for cosmetics, it does feel like more often than not you’ll gain access to other upgrades faster the more effort you invest. Though honestly, it’s usually just rewarding to figure it all out anyway. I do wish that the combat weren’t quite such a mess though, as you just feel a little too sluggish, and keeping track of the many enemies coming at you from all sides tends to be an insurmountable challenge… so you’re best off just going wild with your attacks and hoping for the best. While it may not make for a perfect experience, it’s still distinctive and generally satisfying though.