Moons of Darsalon Review (Steam & Steam Deck)
Summary: This retro-inspired game boasts engaging gameplay, quirky humor, and nostalgic visuals that will become a must-play for fans of classic platformers and puzzle games
4.5
Modern classic!
Moons of Darsalon is an enchanting retro-inspired 2D platformer that has been meticulously crafted by the talented team at Dr. Kucho! Games and published by Astrolabe Games, where players are thrust into the role of a courageous astronaut whose primary mission is to rescue a group of stranded miners, affectionately known as Darsanauts, scattered across the perilous moons of the distant planet Darsalon, a journey that combines nostalgic elements from beloved classics like Lemmings, Abe’s Odyssey, and Pikmin, with subtle influences from timeless titles such as Lunar Lander and JET PAC, creating an engaging and immersive experience that is both familiar and refreshingly unique.
The gameplay of Moons of Darsalon invites players to navigate through a diverse array challenging levels, each meticulously designed to test their platforming prowess and problem-solving skills, as they embark on a thrilling adventure that requires them to jump, shoot, jetpack, and blast their way through various hazards and enemies, all while ensuring the safe passage of the vulnerable Darsanauts, whose survival hinges on the player’s ability to guide them to safety with precision and care. The game’s innovative mechanics seamlessly blend classic platforming elements with intricate puzzle-solving challenges, resulting in a dynamic and rewarding gameplay experience that demands both strategy and skill, as players must adeptly manage their limited resources and make split-second decisions to overcome the myriad obstacles that stand in their way.
Graphics & Audio
Visually, Moons of Darsalon boasts a charming and vibrant retro aesthetic, with meticulously crafted pixel art characters and backgrounds that evoke the nostalgic feel of the Commodore 64 era, transporting players back to a time when video games were defined by their creativity and ingenuity. The game’s advanced platformer AI, dynamic terrain detection, and realistic physics further enhance the immersive experience, providing players with a sense of authenticity and depth as they traverse the treacherous landscapes of Darsalon, navigating both ground and air vehicles with unparalleled precision and control.
Adding to the game’s nostalgic appeal is its evocative soundtrack, inspired by the iconic MOS 6581 (SID) chip from 1982, which perfectly complements the retro visuals and gameplay, creating an auditory experience that is both captivating and immersive, drawing players deeper into the world of Darsalon and heightening the sense of adventure and excitement that permeates every moment of the game.
Final Thoughts?
This retro-inspired game boasts engaging gameplay, quirky humor, and nostalgic visuals that will become a must-play for fans of classic platformers and puzzle games, offering a unique and memorable experience that pays homage to the golden age of gaming while introducing fresh and innovative mechanics that are sure to captivate both new and seasoned players alike.
Moons of Darsalon is available on PC, Switch, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One
About the Author
Adrian Gunning Adrian lives in Melbourne Australia and has a huge passion for gaming, technology and pop culture. He recently finished his a Bachelor of Journalism and is currently focusing on games journalism. When not writing and playing video games, Adrian can be found in Comics 'R' Us debating the pros of the DC Universe and cons of the Marvel Universe.
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