Momodora: Moonlit Farewell – A Captivating Conclusion to the Series
Momodora: Moonlit Farewell marks the finale of the beloved Momodora series, initially launched on PC last year to rave reviews. Its recent arrival on consoles, especially the Nintendo Switch, showcases the title as an exceptional fit for the platform, further elevating an already outstanding gaming experience.
A Quick Overview for Newcomers
For those unfamiliar with the Momodora series, here’s a brief synopsis. Players assume the role of Momo Reinol, a priestess from the village of Koho, tasked with combating an invasion of demons unleashed by the ominous ringing of a Black Bell. To confront this dark threat, Momo must navigate through challenging Metroidvania-style levels, honing her abilities and unlocking new areas as she progresses.
Accessible for New Players
As the fifth installment, Moonlit Farewell serves as an inviting entry point for new players. This accessibility is evident in its straightforward narrative; while character introductions may be brief, the essence of each character is communicated effectively. This simplicity doesn’t detract from the experience; rather, it enriches the strong character dynamics, particularly the endearing exchanges with the regular shopkeeper, Cereza.
Gameplay Mechanics That Shine
The gameplay in Momodora: Moonlit Farewell retains the solid mechanics found in its PC version. Key to a successful Metroidvania is fluid movement, and this title excels in that aspect. While it may not reach the pinnacle of the genre, the movement is responsive and engaging.
Combat is equally impressive, delivering a satisfying challenge throughout the game. Interestingly, the difficulty seems slightly imbalanced; some routine enemies may pose more of a challenge than bosses. However, this oddity doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. The Sigil customization feature also surprised me with its versatility, often providing significant advantages in tougher segments.
An Optimal Experience on Switch
Having transitioned to the Nintendo Switch, the game’s performance is commendable. Despite concerns about the console’s aging technology, Momodora: Moonlit Farewell runs seamlessly. Its retro-inspired visuals are well-suited for the portable format, with the pixel art appearing especially vibrant and crisp in handheld mode. For owners of the OLED Switch, the visual enhancements may be even more pronounced, though I can only speculate as a first-year Switch user.
Perfect for Handheld Play
One of the standout aspects of this title is its suitability for gaming on the go. Checkpoint bells are well-placed, allowing for quick sessions between tasks. However, be warned: the immersive world may make it challenging to stop playing, turning what should be short breaks into lengthy gaming marathons. With its engaging gameplay, players might find themselves lost in the captivating universe of Momodora.
No New Features on Console
If you played this title on PC, you may not find the console version necessary. As far as I’ve observed, the Switch version is a direct port without additional features or modes. While I have been praising its handheld capabilities, players with a Steam Deck have already experienced everything this game has to offer.
Final Thoughts
For those who missed out on Momodora: Moonlit Farewell during its original launch, the Switch adaptation is well worth exploring. It’s an excellent contribution to the Metroidvania genre, offering a delightful experience without significantly innovating the conventional formula. The game feels custom-designed for handheld enjoyment, characterized by manageable length, straightforward gameplay, and visuals that thrive on compact screens.
Momodora: Moonlit Farewell is available now on PC, Nintendo Switch, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
Leave a Reply