I’ve been keeping an eye on this game in the Discord while it was in development, and while I was intrigued (this was the first game I tried after clearing my rating queue), I was also a bit skeptical you could pull it off. To make a game that’s fun to play both with 100% and with 0%, without being too demanding of the player? That’s a very slim tightrope to walk.
But man, do I feel silly for doubting, because you absolutely nailed it! Disclaimer: at this point I’ve only played through it 100%, but I think I understand all the tricks needed to go for 0%, which I will probably try tomorrow. I definitely did some skips on my first go, such as fighting Seiryu without the mallet, tear, or boots, and finding the Grappling Hook only after I no longer had any use for it. It can be hard to tell the difference between what is intended and what is “”“unintended””” in this game, but that only got my gears turning about my next run.
I think the combat was the weakest point, which was mostly due to the way the player character controls. The camera could get in the way, and the three hit combo never really felt that satisfying. However, it makes up for it with some really good boss design. Having 4 bosses is already impressive, but they all felt like a solid challenge, but never like a brick wall, they have very fair patterns. Learning Seiryu while fighting him “early” was a lot of fun. I hate that dang lantern yokai though, I never managed to beat those guys without taking damage.
The game also has a nicely cohesive theme, a pleasant artstyle and music, and even has a bit of lore. Not to mention a hint system, and map drawing tools? You really went above and beyond. Very impressed, definitely one of my favourite MVM entries I’ve ever played.