Kalevania
- May 3, 2023
- Games By Michi
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Get on itch.io Store"Kalevania is a single-player Fantasy Platformer game inspired by Finnish mythology and retro-style Japanese console games. Explore seven diverse locations, combatting over 50 enemy types using various weapons and runic powers. Immerse in the authentic retro gaming experience, complete with an original nostalgic soundtrack by Ilari Hannula."
Reviews
- Fun and entertaining gameplay with a charming art style and excellent soundtrack.
- Unique take on Finnish folklore that adds depth and interest to the platforming experience.
- Solid mechanics and varied spells provide satisfying combat and movement options.
- Game is very short, often completed in under two hours, which may not justify the full price.
- Controls can feel imprecise, and there are issues with hitboxes and enemy AI that detract from the experience.
- Recycled enemies and bosses, along with some confusing design choices, lead to a lack of variety in later levels.
- music14 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received high praise for its quality and fittingness, with many users highlighting it as a standout feature alongside the pixel art graphics. While most reviews describe the soundtrack as excellent or good, some players experienced technical issues, such as music not looping properly during extended boss fights or overlapping tracks due to glitches. Overall, the soundtrack contributes positively to the gaming experience, despite some minor sound-related problems.
“A really fun albeit short platformer with an absolutely banging soundtrack.”
“Seriously though, I can't praise the OST enough.”
“Solid gameplay and excellent soundtrack.”
“Sometimes if you fight the boss for too long, the music stops looping.”
“I somehow managed to have two music tracks playing at the same time; I'm not sure if alt-tab had anything to do with it or the faulty mute feature.”
“You need to figure out what to do about all the stutter; you don't want it to feel like you're constantly changing speed in mid-air. Fix the music problems.”
- gameplay10 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The gameplay is generally praised for its satisfying mechanics, varied spells, and solid controls, drawing comparisons to titles like Shovel Knight and DuckTales. Players appreciate the blend of weapon variety and upgrades, alongside a strong soundtrack and humor. However, some users noted technical issues, such as stuttering, that detracted from the overall experience.
“The gameplay feels satisfying and punchy, and most spells are quite varied in function.”
“Amazing vania game with good music, rock solid gameplay mechanics, and Finnish humor!”
“I didn't have any issues with the gameplay aspects of the game; it's solid.”
“Gameplay-wise, it might resemble Shovel Knight somewhat; you control the old hero Väinämöinen who sets out to recover the Sampo (a mythical McGuffin) and find a bride.”
“At first, it felt like the gameplay was decent. I mean, you can change between multiple weapons, bounce on the sword, and use various spells, plus all of the upgrades.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics feature a charming and unique art style that balances abstraction and representation, appealing to many players. However, some users have reported issues with stuttering and visibility in gameplay, suggesting that improvements are needed to enhance the overall visual experience.
“The art style may be primitive in places, but it is extremely charming.”
“An art style focused on limited space and palette, with no single pixel representing anything in particular, creates a perfect compromise between abstract and representational art.”
“The graphics are extremely good so far, and the music is really good too.”
“I think you guys need to figure out what to do about all the stutter; you don't want it to feel like you're constantly changing speed in mid-air. Fix the soft lock, fix the music problems, and maybe rework some color coding and visuals in the levels so you can see what the hell is hitting you.”
- stability2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game experiences significant stability issues, particularly freezing near the final boss, which prevents players from completing it after several hours of gameplay. Additionally, there are glitches such as the music stopping during prolonged boss fights.
“The game freezes at what I assume is the last boss or close to the ending, so I was unable to finish it. I would say it's around 3 to 4 hours to get there.”
“Other glitches: sometimes if you fight the boss for too long, the music stops looping.”
- story1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The story is praised for its entertaining and enjoyable elements, with notable references to the Kalevala, providing a nostalgic experience for players.
“Highly recommend for just some good fun, with throwbacks to the story of Kalevala.”
- humor1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game features a blend of solid gameplay mechanics and engaging music, complemented by a distinct Finnish humor that adds a unique charm to the experience.
“An amazing Vania game with good music, rock-solid gameplay mechanics, and Finnish humor!”
“The humor in this game is top-notch, making every moment enjoyable and light-hearted.”
“I love how the game incorporates clever jokes and witty dialogue that keep me laughing throughout.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Users note that the game's replayability has improved following the 1.02 patch, making it feel more playable despite some lingering stutter issues. The default starting option is highlighted as the most enjoyable choice, suggesting that different playthroughs can offer varied experiences.
