ANIMAL WELL
" Atmospheric indie action-adventure with innovative puzzles and stunning pixel art but obtuse difficulty "
ANIMAL WELL Review
Animal Well is a unique metroidvania puzzle platformer that emphasizes exploration, atmosphere, and intricate puzzles over combat. Developed primarily by a single creator, it offers a technically polished experience with stunning pixel art, moody sound design, and a compact 32MB size that impresses many players. The game features a non-linear world with multiple layers of secrets and puzzles, some of which require community collaboration or external guides to solve.
Players praise its immersive and mysterious ambiance, clever level design, and creative mechanics like the bubble wand and frisbee, which provide fresh gameplay dynamics. However, the game is also noted for its high difficulty spikes in later stages, obtuse puzzles, and occasional frustrating backtracking. The lack of explicit narrative or handholding divides players, with some appreciating the challenge and mystery, while others find it confusing or feel the game lacks artistic depth. Despite these issues, Animal Well leaves a lasting impression and is highly recommended for fans of challenging puzzle metroidvanias.
Highlights
Animal Well is widely praised for its gorgeous pixel art and atmospheric sound design, creating a haunting yet comforting world. The gameplay mechanics stand out, especially the innovative use of items like the bubble wand and disc for puzzles and traversal. Its design encourages exploration without handholding, rewarding players with multiple layers of secrets and a strong sense of discovery. Many reviewers compare it favorably to classics like Hollow Knight and Cave Story, highlighting its elegant puzzle design and immersive metroidvania structure. The game’s compact size and technical polish also receive commendations.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the game's obscure and sometimes unfair puzzle design, which can lead to player frustration and reliance on external guides. Backtracking and repetitive runs after failures are often cited as time-consuming and tedious. The item management system is seen as clunky due to limited button mapping, causing annoyance during fast-paced sections. Additionally, the lack of narrative or artistic context leaves some players feeling the experience is soulless or empty. The game’s short main story and high price point are also debated, with some suggesting it is better suited for sale purchases.
Pros
- • Stunning pixel art with rich, moody atmospheric sound design and music.
- • Innovative and varied puzzle mechanics that encourage creative problem solving.
- • No combat; focuses on exploration and puzzle-solving for a fresh metroidvania experience.
- • Well-designed level layouts that reward careful observation and backtracking.
- • Compact file size showcasing technical efficiency without sacrificing quality.
- • Multiple layers of secrets that deepen replayability and community engagement.
- • Responsive controls and fluid movement make platforming satisfying.
Cons
- • Puzzles can be overly obtuse, requiring external help to progress.
- • Backtracking and repeated puzzle retries can feel tedious and time-consuming.
- • Item selection UI is cumbersome due to limited button mapping options.
- • Lack of narrative or artistic context leaves the experience feeling empty to some.
- • Short main story with limited character or plot development.
- • Some secrets feel like filler without meaningful rewards.
- • Difficulty spikes late in the game may frustrate less skilled players.
Rating Criteria
Explore a dense, interconnected labyrinth, and unravel its many secrets. Collect items to manipulate your environment in surprising and meaningful ways. Encounter beautiful and unsettling creatures, as you attempt to survive what lurks in the dark. There is more than what you see.
