Game: Nico Saves the State
Genre: Platformer, Puzzle
System: Xbox (Also available on Steam (Windows), Nintendo Switch & PS4 & PS5)
Developer|Publisher: Cross Game Studio | Ratalaika Games
Age Rating: EU 7 | US Everyone 10+
Price: US $4.99 | UK 4.99 | EU € 4,99
Release Date: May 1st, 2025
A review code was provided, and many thanks to Ratalaika Games PR.
Nico Saves the State: A Clever Throwback With a Twist
Retro gamers know the magic of the “save state”, that blessed feature on emulators and retro game collections, where you can save your game exactly where you stand, then reload it instantly after a misstep or a boss fight gone wrong. Nico Saves the State takes that nostalgic concept and runs wild with it, turning it into the central mechanic of a charming and deceptively tricky puzzle-platformer.
With a colourful 2.5d aesthetic and a toolbox of reality-bending abilities, Nico Saves the State delivers a unique twist on the genre. It’s smart, it’s original, and it’s just challenging enough to make your head spin, without being outright punishing (most of the time).
Save the City—With a Phone?
Nico Saves the State opens with villainous mastermind Dr. Voo Doom already locked away, the city at peace. But his cronies aren’t done. They launch a siege on the city, demanding his release. With the usual hero Jack conveniently on vacation, the responsibility falls on Nico, an unassuming lab assistant. Armed with the “Statephone,” a bizarre device gifted by Dr. Expo Zicion, Nico sets out to outwit the bad guys.
The setup is simple, with short visual novel-style cutscenes delivering the plot. The focus is firmly on the gameplay, and that’s where the game shines.
The Four States of Nico
Each level is a self-contained puzzle where your goal is to reach a Power Crystal. To do so, you’ll need to use the Statephone’s four core abilities:
- Save State: Leave a shadow version of Nico anywhere and teleport back to that point at any time. It’s ideal for creating return paths or getting out of sticky spots.
- Momentum Save: Bounce on a spring, store the momentum, and release it later to launch yourself in the same direction, essentially a makeshift double-jump.
- Enemy Swap: Tag an enemy with a projectile and switch places with them. Very handy for dodging traps or sacrificing an enemy to hazards in your place.
- Inventory Save: Save a key item, such as a switch or key, and reuse it after it’s consumed, essentially duplicating it.
Each level feels like a puzzle box, where success hinges on understanding how to chain these abilities together. It’s clever, creative, and unlike most puzzle-platformers out there.
Tricky Controls and Trial & Error
Platforming basics, moving, and jumping are fine, but the game’s ability system introduces a layer of complexity. You use shoulder buttons to cycle through powers, then assign two of them to your left and right triggers. This dual-wielding of mechanics is powerful, but it’s also easy to forget what you’ve equipped or fumble in the heat of the moment.
Nico Saves the State has a “one-hit-and-you’re-dead” structure, which adds pressure. Forget to lay down a save state? Missed a tricky jump? Back to the start you go. Levels aren’t long, but the repetition can wear thin, especially when paired with slightly twitchy controls. The game requires patience, precision, and a healthy dose of trial and error. For some players, that’s half the fun; for others, it might feel punishing.
Visuals & Vibes
Nico Saves the State uses a 2.5d style, 2D character sprites layered over pseudo-3d backgrounds. While it’s visually competent, it’s not especially eye-catching. Environments range from cities to grassy plains, but they don’t leave a lasting impression. Still, the effort to avoid the overdone “pixel-art indie” look is appreciated.
Where the game does shine is its soundtrack. The music is fun, catchy, and full of personality. The jazzy numbers that play during particularly tricky puzzles help ease the frustration and lend the game a playful tone. It’s got that retro energy with a modern flair, and it fits the tone well.
Conclusion: A State Worth Saving
Nico Saves the State stands out as a refreshingly original idea wrapped in a deceptively simple package. The puzzle-platforming, when it clicks, is extremely satisfying, thanks to the smart use of its save-based abilities. It’s not an easy game, controls take getting used to, and the one-hit-death mechanic will test your patience, but the core idea is strong and well executed.
If you’re a fan of quirky puzzle games or want something that makes you think as much as it makes you jump, Nico Saves the State is worth checking out. Just be ready to save… and load… and repeat.
Final Verdict: I Like It 
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