Game: Spindle
Genre: Action, Adventure, Puzzle
System: Nintendo Switch (also on Steam (Windows))
Developer|Publisher: Wobble Ghost | Deck13
Age Rating: EU 3+ | US Everyone 10+
Price: US $19.99 | UK 17.99 | EU € 19,99
Release Date: October 13th, 2025
Review code provided with many thanks to PR Hound.
Spindle – Death, a Pig, and a Surprisingly Heartfelt Adventure
Every now and then, a game comes along that reminds you why you love the classics. Spindle initially appears to be a retro throwback, a top-down adventure clearly inspired by The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. However, spend just an hour with it, and it becomes something quite unique. This is a game that feels nostalgic yet surprisingly fresh, filled with humour, a touch of emotion, and a pig that absolutely steals the show.
Become Death
You play as Death, yes, the hooded figure with a scythe, at least the current version of death. You wake up to discover your new role, and you’re soon tasked with seeking out various souls and sending them to the afterlife. Also, no one can die now for some reason, so you need to figure that out. It’s an intriguing setup that unfolds with a lighthearted tone, as you and your loyal pig companion set off to uncover what’s gone wrong and restore balance to the afterlife. Did I mention your partner in crime is a pig?
The concept alone had me grinning, but the writing and world design sealed it. There’s something unexpectedly touching about helping lost souls find peace, especially when the game balances melancholy themes with moments of wit and humour. Think Spiritfarer by way, but less teary, and you’ll have a good idea of what Spindle is going for.
Death’s Best Friend is a Pig
Let’s talk about that pig. Your oinking sidekick is far more than comic relief; he’s an integral part of the gameplay and story. He offers hints when you’re stuck, helps solve puzzles, and even has his own moments of emotional weight later in the story. The bond that builds between you and this rotund, loyal little companion feels genuinely rewarding.
It’s a rare thing to find a game where you want to talk to every character, but Spindle makes that time well spent. The NPCs all add life to the world with their stories progressing as you work through the game. Conversations are short and snappy, keeping things flowing while still adding layers of personality and warmth to the setting.
Old-School Adventure with Clever Twists
Gameplay follows a familiar yet satisfying rhythm: explore the overworld, dive into dungeons, earn a new ability, fight a boss and repeat. What Spindle does well is how it weaves light puzzle-solving into its combat and exploration. Each new power you unlock adds a new layer to both battles and dungeon design, sometimes literally opening new paths or allowing clever shortcuts back to earlier areas.
Combat feels quick and responsive, with your trusty scythe as the main weapon. Timing your dodges and lining up hits gives each encounter a pleasant rhythm, especially when bosses enter the mix. These larger battles are inventive and occasionally tricky, mixing attack patterns with puzzle elements that keep you thinking as much as slashing.
The difficulty sits in that “just right” space, enough to keep you on your toes but never so punishing that it kills the fun. There are also accessibility options available if you need them, a welcome touch that ensures everyone can enjoy what Spindle offers.
A World Worth Wandering
Visually, Spindle leans into detailed pixel art, and it’s gorgeous. Every location feels distinct and thoughtfully designed. The world feels organically connected and fascinating to explore, with little cool features like being able to kick a ball about in town while NPCs follow you. There’s even a neat visual trick with reflections: your reflection in water shows a different version of yourself, the version that NPCs see.
It’s a game that constantly rewards curiosity. Hidden tokens scattered across the world can be traded for health upgrades, encouraging you to poke into corners and investigate suspicious rocks or ruins. Exploration never feels like busywork; it feels like a natural part of the journey. Fishing also features, and I sure do love my fishing mini games.
And yes, you can pet the pig. That alone is worth a mention.
Conclusion: Death Done Right
Spindle surprised me in the best way. It’s a love letter to the golden era of top-down adventures, but adds enough personality and heart to stand out on its own. The gameplay feels tight and satisfying, the story balances emotion with wit, and the art direction is full of small but memorable flourishes.
If I had to nitpick, some of the puzzles can occasionally feel a bit too simple, and the structure may feel familiar to veterans of the genre. But those are minor points in an otherwise excellent adventure.
Whether you’re a fan of Zelda-like games or just want something that makes you smile while tugging gently on your heartstrings, Spindle is a trip worth taking, scythe, pig, and all.
Final Verdict: Two Thumbs Up
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