Öoo
" Charming action-adventure puzzle platformer with ingenious bomb mechanics but short playtime "
Öoo Review
Öoo is a brilliantly designed puzzle platformer that excels in teaching players through organic level design and iterative mechanics. Players use a simple core skill set—primarily remote-detonated bombs—to solve cleverly crafted puzzles that build upon one another, creating continuous "aha!" moments. The game is relatively short, averaging around 2 to 3 hours, but the experience is dense and satisfying without any filler or unnecessary complexity.
The minimalist art style, charming soundtrack, and smooth controls complement the gameplay, making the entire experience delightful and approachable. Although it’s often compared to a Metroidvania, Öoo is more of a “metroidbrainia,” focusing on knowledge and puzzle-solving rather than unlocking new abilities. Post-game secret puzzles provide additional challenge for those seeking more depth. Some players noted the lack of map markers and a desire for more content, but overall, the game is highly polished and recommended for puzzle enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Highlights
Players praise Öoo’s ingenious puzzle design and how it teaches mechanics through gameplay rather than tutorials. The iterative use of a small set of abilities leads to satisfying problem-solving and a rewarding sense of accomplishment.
The charming retro-inspired graphics and vibrant, catchy soundtrack enhance the experience. The pacing and difficulty curve are well balanced, making the game accessible yet engaging. Many reviewers highlight the game’s tight design and the joy of discovery throughout the journey.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the game's short length, with some wishing for additional content or DLC expansions. A few players found the optional secret puzzles repetitive or lacking meaningful rewards.
Some mention the absence of map markers or achievement tracking for secrets, which can cause minor frustration in navigation and completion. A minority felt the core mechanic—using bombs to traverse levels—was less exciting compared to other puzzle games. However, bugs and technical issues are rarely reported.
Pros
- • Ingenious puzzle design that encourages creative problem-solving and learning.
- • Satisfying "aha!" moments that keep players engaged throughout.
- • Minimalist, charming art style complements the gameplay perfectly.
- • Catchy and vibrant soundtrack enhances the overall atmosphere.
- • Smooth, intuitive controls make platforming enjoyable and precise.
- • Well-balanced difficulty curve accessible to a wide range of players.
- • Clever teaching of mechanics through level design without handholding.
Cons
- • Relatively short playtime leaves some players wanting more content.
- • Lack of map markers can make navigation and backtracking confusing.
- • Optional secret puzzles feel repetitive and unrewarding to some.
- • Some players find the bomb-based core mechanic less exciting.
- • No achievement or trophy tracking for secrets reduces completion satisfaction.
- • Linear progression limits exploration compared to traditional Metroidvanias.
- • A few puzzles near the end may require external hints or guides.
Rating Criteria
A Bomb Caterpillar's Big Adventure! "Öoo" is a charming yet mysterious exploration puzzle platformer where you discover creative ways to use bombs!