SEASONS AFTER FALL
Not one to leaf behind
As far as 2D platformers go, they don’t come much more charming than this. Visually spectacular, the cutscenes are done in the style of watercolour paintings, while the in-game graphics are comparable to Disney animations of old. It’s a treat for the peepers and should be enough to swiftly silence those who still question the artistic credibility of videogames.
It’s engaging to play, with a play mechanic making the most of those graphics. Taking control of a fox, you gradually gain the ability to change between seasons. This not only alters the aesthetics of your surroundings but also opens up new possibilities for interaction with the environment. Each season has unique benefits, which are cleverly combined for some fun and thoughtful platforming. For example, the icy touch of winter freezes fountains, allowing them to be scaled, while the rainy spring sees the water levels rise, granting access to previously inaccessible areas. 1
The forest itself is expansive and can be freely explored after you’ve gained use of all four seasons. However, thanks to the lack of a map or any navigational tools, figuring out which area you should be in is often the game’s most perplexing aspect. 2 A good memory and sense of direction are essential, especially when you’re asked to perform tasks like finding an unassuming rock that you’ve passed at some point.
Many of gaming’s usual tropes, such as health and combat, are absent, meaning it won’t be to everyone’s taste, but for those who value an atmospheric adventure and inventive puzzles, there’s a lot to love.
FOOTNOTES1 Autumn winds allow the fox to ride leaves and the summer sun unfurls climbable plants. 2 Difficulty is well-balanced, providing an experience that’s accessible yet satisfying.