Game: Nikoderiko: The Magical World
Genre: Action, Platformer
System: Nintendo Switch (also on Steam (Windows), PS4 & PS5 & Xbox)
Developer|Publisher: VEA Games | Knights Peak
Age Rating: EU 3+ | US Everyone
Price: US $29.99 | UK £25.99 | EU € 29,99
Release Date: October 15th, 2024
A review code was provided, and many thanks to Press Engine.
Nikoderiko: The Magical World – A Love Letter to Platformers
Nikoderiko: The Magical World is a joyous and friendly platformer that draws strong inspiration from old-school classics, particularly Donkey Kong Country and Crash Bandicoot. While it doesn’t offer much new to the platforming formula, the developers have crafted a highly entertaining experience thanks to good-level design, a balanced difficulty curve, and the ability to play co-op with a loved one.
Over-the-Top Positivity
The game follows mongooses Niko and Luna, who stumble upon an ancient relic. Before long, the villain Grimbald and his clan snatch it away, leaving the dynamic duo to explore the mysterious land across seven unique locations to save the day. Niko and Luna, especially the former, approach the adventure with enthusiasm, viewing it as an exciting journey rather than a world-ending crisis.
Both characters are fully voice-acted, and their interactions with NPCs are filled with positivity and excitement, reminiscent of an old-school kids’ show. While the over-the-top cheerfulness can feel excessive at times, there’s no denying that the experience is family-friendly and suited for players of all ages.
Platforming
Nikoderiko channels that familiar old-school platforming feel, much like Donkey Kong Country. Most of your time is spent in 2D, navigating tricky platforms and defeating enemies. The controls are intuitive, and most enemies are taken out with a single jump or slide. However, while the platforming is generally accessible, it can feel a bit fiddly at times, which might frustrate players looking for more nuanced gameplay.
A New Perspective
Every now and then, the game shifts to a 3D perspective, adding a new layer to the gameplay. These sections are reminiscent of older Crash Bandicoot games, and the goal is often to survive until the end of the level. Boss fights strike a nice balance of challenge and variety, making them a lot of fun. Occasionally, you’ll get the chance to ride on giant animals like a frog that spits projectiles or a crocodile-like creature that chomps enemies and spits them out. These segments are delightful, and you can collect tokens to summon these creatures in later levels.
Collect Them All
Though optional, collectables play a big role in the game. Each level offers keys, gems, letters, and cheerful fireflies to gather. Many are in plain sight, but some require a keen eye and mastery of platforming skills. These collectables can be exchanged for chests that unlock items in the menus for you to view at your leisure. However, one frustrating aspect is that if you die, you lose all collectable progress up to that point, making re-collecting items in tougher levels feel a bit tedious. The game does offer an easier mode for casual players. However, you need to commit to difficulty at the start of the game and can’t change it during the game, which is a shame. A big selling point for many is the ability to play the game in a local co-op with a loved one. A feature that is always welcome.
Lush Graphics
The graphics are impressive, with each land you explore bursting with vibrant foliage and larger-than-life enemies. You’ll traverse lush forests, snowy landscapes, and dark caves, complete with minecart rides that will feel familiar to fans of other platformers. The game’s overall atmosphere is filled with positivity that complements the world design, though it stands in contrast to the occasionally over-enthusiastic voice acting. To top it all off, the soundtrack by David Wise, known for his work on Donkey Kong Country and other classics, is excellent. However, the long load times between levels can be a bit of a drag.
Conclusion: Familiar, But Still Fun
Nikoderiko: The Magical World may feel very familiar to longtime fans of the platforming genre, but it offers a polished and enjoyable experience. The variety in platforming mechanics, along with engaging boss battles, make for a fun time. With difficulty options, the game is Z accessible to both experienced players and newcomers. And if you can bring a loved one along for local co-op, it only enhances the experience, much like the cheerful outlook of the game’s main characters.
Final Verdict: I like it a lot!
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