This is Gaming Cypher’s review (done by Darrel Dotterer) of Metrico+ by Dutch developer Digital Dreams.
Metrico+ is a piece of art wrapped around a 2D puzzle platform video game. Metrico+ starts off by choosing between a male or female character. From there, your character enters a world built around obstacles that you need to overcome. You start off with basic controls giving you the ability to move left and right along with a normal jump function. The only way to continue on to the next part of the world is to get to the end of the level. The environment is what makes Metrico+ a unique puzzle game. The actions you do with the character alter the environment around you. This is what allows you to continue on your path or prevent you from going any further.
In one puzzle, a simple jump can make one pillar go up and another come down while moving left in the air can force a platform to move right. This created some fun moments of myself jumping up and down in hopes the environment would change into my favor. However, controlling your character excessively can quickly create more problems and easily stop you in your tracks. Digital Dreams was kind enough to create a beautiful labeling system that highlights vital information improving your ability to make decisions. Each puzzle is well thought out and I found myself smiling every time I reached the end of a level. The puzzles become more complex and challenging requiring you learn from your mistakes and to think creatively.
Except for a few short cut scenes at the end of certain levels, Metrico+ has little story being told. It also has no dialog or other characters to work with. Instead, Digital Dreams decided to tell their story through art and music. The artists use a minimalist art style that is refreshing and visually pleasing. Simple shapes and colors create a wide variety of gorgeous and interesting scenes as the character travels from one part of the world to the next. There were many times I stopped playing the game just to enjoy the view. The music is composed to have a soothing and peaceful sound while adding intriguing sound effects as you progress through a level. It is as if you are creating your own song as you advance through the puzzle. The music and scenery alone makes this game worth playing.
Digital Dreams takes a step back from complicated and made a simple beautiful piece of art. What it lacks in story, it makes up for in everything else. I found the puzzles fun and rewarding. If you have an any appreciation for art and music along with a need to stimulate the brain, Metrico+ is the perfect game for you. In the end, I give Metrico+ an 8.0 out of 10.
Here is the official Metrico+ World Trailer:
Metrico+ will be available starting today, August 23, 2016, on the PlayStation Store, the Xbox One Store and Steam for $13,99 / €13,99.
PC Review
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Overall Score - 8/108/10
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