Game: Leif’s Adventure: Netherworld Hero
Genre: Action, Adventure
System: Nintendo Switch (also on Steam (Windows), Xbox, PS4 and PS5)
Developer|Publisher: OneManOnMars Art & Games | Mindscape
Age Rating: EU 12+| US Teen
Price: US $19.99 | UK 16.99 | EU € 19,99
Release Date: December 19th, 2024
A review code was provided, and many thanks to Games Branding.
Leif’s Adventure: A Beautiful Nordic Journey
Leif’s Adventure: Netherworld Hero is a remarkable action-adventure game developed by a solo developer over the course of seven long, probably coffee-fueled years. Featuring exploration, melee combat, a gorgeous hand-drawn art style, and a story steeped in Nordic folklore, this is an experience that’s well worth your time. Oh, and it has local co-op so that you can rope in a loved one.
Adventure Calls
You play as Leif, son of the village chief and proud owner of a massive inferiority complex, thanks to his older brother, Ragner, the village’s golden boy. Leif is desperate to prove himself, and wouldn’t you know it, fate delivers. When the village is attacked, and Ragner goes missing, Leif steps up to the plate. Armed with bravery, a hammer, and questionable self-confidence, he sets out on a journey that quickly escalates into saving not just his family but the entire realm.
Along the way, Leif befriends a spirit who he accidentally saves, and the two become the dynamic duo we didn’t know we needed. Together, they fight monsters, solve puzzles, and help random NPCs with their equally random problems. The story delves into themes of heroism and self-worth, which is nothing groundbreaking, but it’s handled with genuine care. There’s also a sprinkle of gamer humour courtesy of Leif’s spirit buddy. Sometimes it lands, sometimes it feels a bit “dad joke overload”, but hey, it’s harmless.
Exploration: A Nordic Playground
Like any good adventure game, Leif’s Adventure drops you into sprawling, vibrant levels to explore. After the opening area, you’ll find yourself in a hub world with portals leading to different realms. It’s a simple but effective way to guide players along the story.
Exploration feels rewarding, thanks to responsive platforming mechanics, though the controls demand a level of precision that can make your palms sweaty. Miss a jump, and it’s a quick (but mercifully consequence-free) trip into the void. Luckily, regular bonfires act as checkpoints so that you won’t lose too much progress.
As you explore, you’ll gather crystals to spend on potions, weapons, and armour back at the hub area. And if you ever get lost, the in-game map is there to remind you of all the landmarks you forgot to check.
Combat: Hammer Time (and Other Weapons)
Combat in Leif’s Adventure is melee-focused and surprisingly deep. You start with a trusty hammer that never breaks because who has time for weapon durability mechanics? Along the way, you’ll collect swords, spears, and axes, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. These weapons do degrade over time, but a quick repair menu keeps them in play (provided you’ve stockpiled enough crystals).
Enemies have elemental strengths and weaknesses, so it’s smart to keep a varied arsenal. Or, you can charge in unprepared and hope for the best, your call. The controls are easy to pick up, with attacks, dodges, and parries that feel satisfying when executed well. It’s all fun and games until the boss fights, where things get downright chaotic. Between giant glowing weak spots and a barrage of hazards, these encounters demand sharp reflexes and patience, which might not be every gamer’s strong suit.
Spirit Buddy and Co-op
Leif isn’t alone on this adventure; his spirit buddy is here to help. In single-player mode, you can summon the spirit to solve puzzles, collect crystals, and even stun enemies. However, managing both characters at once can feel like juggling flaming swords, especially during intense battles.
Thankfully, the game shines in local co-op. Here, your co-op partner takes control of the spirit, eliminating the need for multitasking and making the game significantly less stressful. Honestly, the game feels tailor-made for co-op, but solo players can still enjoy it with some extra perseverance (and maybe a deep breath or two).
A Nordic Feast for the Eyes
Visually, Leif’s Adventure is a treat. The hand-drawn art style brings the Nordic-inspired world to life, from creepy caves to lush floating islands. The vibrant colours and intricate details give each area a distinct personality, though the animations sometimes have a paper-like quality that hints at the game’s indie roots.
The music complements the visuals beautifully, with epic tracks for battles and calming melodies during exploration. It’s all very atmospheric, and it’s great for a game inspired by folklore.
That said, I did encounter a particularly nasty bug where my character froze during a revisit to an old area. Thankfully, the game’s auto-save system let me load a previous save without much trouble.
Conclusion: A Leif on the Wind
Leif’s Adventure: Netherworld Hero is a captivating, heartfelt journey that I wholeheartedly recommend to fans of action-adventure games. The hand-drawn visuals, satisfying combat, and touching story make it a standout experience. Sure, the boss fights can feel like they’re out for blood, and solo players might find the spirit mechanics a bit overwhelming, but these are small bumps in an otherwise fantastic road.
If you’re unsure, try the free demo on the eShop. It’s a great way to experience this Nordic adventure before committing to the full journey.
Final Verdict: I Like it a Lot 
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