GIGASWORD instantly caught my eye. It is dated, weird, and it combines multiple genres to great effect. On top of this, the storytelling is fascinating, and I enjoyed many elements of this tight, fun, and well-constructed indie affair. However, if you are not a fan of Metroidvania games, you’ll probably want to give this a miss.
This action-adventure Metroidvania was developed by Studio Hybrid and published by Akupara Games. It is a single-player title that has a fine Mega Drive edge. Additionally, each area is a mini-puzzle in itself. Accordingly, your grey matter will be tested repeatedly as you try to fight, jump, and overcome every problem you face.
GIGASWORD highlights man’s greed.
We can never be truly happy with what we have. Moreover, if someone or something has more than us, we want to take it by force. Humans are greedy, selfish, and out for number one. Sadly, GIGASWORD highlights our flaws from the beginning.
The city of Thoenhart is plagued by famine and disease. There is a huge divide in wealth, and people are dying. However, there is a solution hiding in plain sight. The Nocturne are guarding the God Crystal, Gnosis, and the humans want it. This crystal is said to bring wealth and prosperity to whoever holds it. Consequently, the army is raised, and the Nocturne are slain. This turn of events unleashes an evil power, and one human must wield the GIGASWORD and save the day.
A game of balance and puzzles.
The story is as outlandish and out there as you’d expect from an old-school-inspired adventure. Yet, it is the fine mechanics and puzzles that make this shine. Additionally, the classic Metroidvania elements of new skills and abilities to open up otherwise unobtainable levels are familiar but well considered.
If you’ve tackled a Metroidvania game, those mechanics will not surprise you. However, it is the balance of the GIGASWORD that adds originality and a high degree of difficulty. If you hold this powerful tool, you will not be able to jump correctly, and you will move at a snail’s pace. Subsequently, you must stab the sword into the ground and find ways to overcome your obstacles and be reunited with your weapon.
This core idea was brilliant, frustrating, and pretty difficult to work with. The difficulty wasn’t off the chart, but it will make you think as you try to solve every problem. On top of this, there are the normal fights, big encounters, and secrets to discover. Each of these elements helps to add depth and keep you on your toes.
GIGASWORD is brilliantly dated.
GIGASWORD was surprisingly large with many maze-like rooms and loads of twists and turns. Each area has an earthy colour palette, and this was complemented by the pixelated visuals. Although I appreciate that this will not be for everyone, I like the dated style and the walk down memory lane. Thankfully, the animation was smooth, and there were limited bugs or glitches. As such, the developer has done a nice job with the final product.
The audio is as daunting, dramatic, and impressive as you’d expect. The music plays on regardless of the situation. Alongside this, there are some incredibly basic but effective sound effects to match every action. I wasn’t particularly blown away by the choice of sound effects, but they worked well and added depth to the sound profile.
Tight controls.
I was relieved once I mastered the basics. Luckily, the control setup was straightforward to learn, and the layout was easy to understand. Furthermore, the controls are tight, responsive, and perfect when trying to navigate tight and deadly platforms.
With many secrets, loads of monsters, and plenty of abilities and skills to unlock, GIGASWORD has loads to keep you playing. If you adore unusual puzzles, old-school gaming, and interesting but basic combat, this will have you hooked.
GIGASWORD is a great indie game.
I didn’t expect to enjoy this as much as I did. However, the core mechanics were good, and the story was touching and cruel. Moreover, the world is confusing, challenging, but a joy to explore. If you want to test your grey matter and destroy an army of selfish humans, I recommend buying this here! Can you seek revenge and save the day? Master the GIGASWORD, solve the puzzles, and retrieve the Gnosis.
