NOTs
Potentially Fiddly Platform Controls
The game at its best is a platform styled hand to hand action title. Occasionally, when solely a platformer the controls seemed fiddly. The controls are far from complex but for those not used to fast pace button presses on a few different buttons could cause frustration. I am a fan of challenging gameplay but when the trickiness is as a result of controls I think some players may be put off. If you are a fan of games that require multiple button combos you will be more than fine but those that don’t game much may find their fingers not fast enough.
Too Short
Guacamelee is incredibly fun to play with entertainment packed in from start to finish. It is a shame however that the finish comes far too early. Gamers will easily be able to sit down and finish the game off in one day. Even with the recommended hourly breaks, which every gamer abides by, it is possible to finish within a day. The first play through is enjoyable enough that most will happily play through again but it begs the question with players hungry for more why couldn’t the game be longer? If there was a harder difficulty unlocked after finishing the game there would be even more reason to play again, keeping players interest more than the game already does. The ability to co-op does help but with little difference the game is too short.
Verdict
Overall, Guacamelee! Gold Edition is a game that is entertaining and fun to play. The length is an issue but with the game being so enjoyable a second if not third playthrough. The same screen co-op does little to add to the game but is a nice feature to have available. For people that often play games the control will not be a problem, those relatively new to a keyboard or controller may struggle with the speed needed from their fingers. The mix of platform and combat is a perfect one, with both interchanging with ease and keeping each other fresh. If you are looking for a small title that will be incredibly fun to play look no further than Guacamelee! Gold Edition.
[Editor’s Note: Guacamelee! Gold Edition was reviewed on the PC. The game was provided to us by the publisher for review purposes.]
