KeyWe
- August 31, 2021
- Stonewheat & Sons
- 7h median play time
Impressive efforts with a few noticeable problems holding them back. Won't astound everyone, but is worth your time and cash.
"KeyWe is a cute, co-op platformer game where players control kiwi birds working in a post office, using teamwork to type telegrams, send messages, and ship packages. Experience masterful visuals and hilarious bugs in both local and online multiplayer mode, or single-player with a single controller. Customize your kiwi and conquer various postal environments across seasons in this charming, handless adventure."
Reviews
- KeyWe is an incredibly fun and original co-op game that offers a charming experience with cute kiwi characters and engaging gameplay.
- The game features a variety of levels that introduce new mechanics, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting throughout.
- It's a great game for couples and friends, promoting teamwork and communication while providing plenty of laughs.
- The game suffers from performance issues and bugs, particularly in online co-op, which can lead to frustrating gameplay experiences.
- Some players find the controls awkward and unresponsive, especially when trying to manage both kiwis in single-player mode.
- The game can feel repetitive after a while, as it relies on a limited number of gameplay mechanics that are reused across levels.
- gameplay83 mentions
- 45 % positive mentions
- 52 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The gameplay in Keywe is characterized by its charming co-op mechanics, where players control two kiwi birds in a postal office, offering a mix of hilarity and challenge. The game features a variety of levels with easy-to-learn mechanics that gradually increase in complexity, making it accessible for players of all skill levels while promoting teamwork and communication. Despite some minor bugs and occasional clarity issues, the overall experience is engaging, with a good balance of fun, replayability, and unique gameplay twists that keep it fresh.
“The charming gameplay, where you and a friend control two kiwi birds working in a postal office, is both hilarious and challenging.”
“The gameplay is pretty fun with friends and the visuals are adorable.”
“Extremely cute and surprisingly fun and deep gameplay!”
“In addition to a few of its own bugs, there were many instances of resetting and hair-pulling because the mechanics of the tournaments would occasionally just be too much.”
“We will complete an entire level just for the game to not give us the completion screen or during the level, the mechanics will break.”
“The mechanics are a bit wonky though... for example, I was able to play all the levels until the second day of winter alone, in that second level not only can it not be played as a single player but the mechanics are extremely laggy.”
- story39 mentions
- 10 % positive mentions
- 82 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The game's story is described as lighthearted and endearing, featuring a variety of missions that keep gameplay engaging despite some repetitive elements. Players appreciate the cute characters and the integration of mini-games that add variety to the main storyline, which can be completed in about 10-15 hours. While some missions may feel similar, the overall experience is enjoyable, especially when played with friends.
“The story is lighthearted.”
“The story is excellent, the gameplay and mechanics are superb.”
“The storyline was basic but quite endearing, and did I mention how cute the main characters are?”
“This game has no story.”
“My only gripe with this game is the repetitive nature of the main storyline as the challenges are the same but slightly different.”
“The storyline was basic but quite endearing.”
- graphics38 mentions
- 45 % positive mentions
- 47 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are widely praised for their charming and cute art style, which enhances the overall experience and complements the fun gameplay. Many reviewers appreciate the colorful visuals and the whimsical design, particularly the adorable kiwi characters, while some note that the graphics are not overly demanding, allowing for enjoyable play even on lower settings. However, a few critiques mention that the realistic art style may detract from gameplay, indicating a mixed reception in that regard.
“This is a splendid co-op game with a lot of soul and a fantastic art style.”
“The visuals are very cute stylized art with a great sense of humour and goofiness.”
“The animations are full of life and the visuals are so well done.”
“No need for this realistic art style; it severely hampers the gameplay and experience.”
“Horrible interface, bad graphics, and gameplay.”
“The graphics aren't overwhelming, but that doesn't take away from the entertainment value of the game.”
- humor28 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is consistently praised for its charm and silliness, with players enjoying the hilarious concept of controlling kiwi birds in a postal office. The gameplay is filled with funny twists, quirky collectibles, and amusing dialogue that keeps the experience fresh and entertaining, often leading to laughter and lighthearted moments among friends. Overall, the combination of cute characters, goofy scenarios, and engaging mini-games creates a delightful and comedic atmosphere that resonates well with players.
“The charming gameplay, where you and a friend control two kiwi birds working in a postal office, is both hilarious and challenging.”
“Overall the game is gold and very cute; it's funny, silly, and quite hectic.”
“It's a hilarious concept and the execution is excellent.”
- stability25 mentions
- 4 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 96 % negative mentions
The game's stability has received mixed reviews, with many players reporting significant bugs and glitches that can hinder gameplay, particularly in co-op mode and during specific levels. While some users found the game enjoyable and manageable despite these issues, others described it as frustratingly unplayable at times, especially during the winter season. Overall, the game appears to be in need of further polish to enhance the player experience.
“This game was wonderfully cute and a whole lot of fun, and it looks and runs great.”
“This game is buggy and unplayable when it gets to the winter season, do not buy.”
“This game fought my PC; the main menu is buggy and my friend and I couldn't stay connected for co-op for more than 1 level.”
“It's a cute game but the game is frustratingly buggy and unpolished.”
- music15 mentions
- 53 % positive mentions
- 27 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its whimsical and relaxing qualities, enhancing the overall fun and cute aesthetic. Players particularly enjoy the music bonus levels, which are considered highlights, while some find the soundtrack engaging enough to keep playing despite initial fatigue. Overall, the combination of catchy tunes and vibrant art style contributes significantly to the game's charm.
“A short, challenging, cute game with great music and fun challenges.”
“Definitely a great game and cute concept, the music bonus level is a favorite!”
“Music is cute, but after a few games, I turned it off.”
“You start the game, and it forces you to create a save and then watch a long intro video with the music blaring.”
“The music choice is whimsical and relaxing even when the game is throwing various curve balls into the mix.”
- replayability14 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 29 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The game boasts significant replayability due to its diverse challenges, collectible hunting, and varying level designs that change with each playthrough. While it may be shorter in length, players find enjoyment in striving for high scores and unlocking content, making it a worthwhile experience. Overall, the combination of customization options and engaging mechanics contributes to its high replay value.
“Educational, fun, and has lots of replayability - many different level types and the contents of the levels change between runs.”
“The game offers a surprising amount of depth and customization, tons of replayability, and fun game mechanics.”
“There is a ton of replayability in the design of the game, such as secret items, customization, and overall fun gameplay with a ton of things to it.”
“Unlike so many other puzzle games, Keywe has a ton of replayability thanks to so many different versions of the basic puzzles.”
“The game is fairly short (around 60 different stages with bonus things included), which I personally don't mind because it has replay value in trying to get high scores and unlocking things.”
- emotional12 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is characterized by a blend of joy and heartache, with players expressing feelings of both laughter and tears. Many describe it as a cute and wholesome experience that fosters connection, particularly when played with loved ones, while also highlighting the emotional impact of setbacks, such as losing progress. Overall, it evokes a strong sense of warmth and enjoyment, making it a memorable experience for players.
“It made me cry in agony and joy.”
“Even though the life of a kiwi in a mail room isn't easy work, each level, season, and minigame really brings a smile to the player and makes for an extremely fun and heartwarming time.”
“This game is so wholesome, I cried.”
- optimization7 mentions
- 43 % positive mentions
- 14 % neutral mentions
- 43 % negative mentions
The game's optimization has received mixed reviews, with some players experiencing significant performance issues that hinder gameplay, especially in co-op modes. Conversely, others praise the game's high-resolution textures and responsiveness, noting that it runs smoothly despite its size. Overall, while some players find the optimization lacking, others appreciate the challenge it presents and the rewards for improved performance.
“I recommend aiming for silver performance grades, as gold is near impossible for a mortal.”
“The latter is incentivized, as better performance is rewarded with a larger amount of currency, which you can spend on various cosmetics, ranging from colorations and plumage styles to hats, backpacks, and more.”
“Really nice increase in difficulty, and optimization challenges and achievements as well.”
“Not fun because of this performance issue.”
“Poorly optimized game that can't be played in co-op as well.”
“Horribly optimized.”
- grinding7 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players generally find the grinding aspect of the game to be excessive and tedious, often leading to a significant increase in playtime without much enjoyment. While some appreciate the challenge and the fun of collecting cosmetics, many express frustration with the difficulty and time commitment required to achieve 100% completion or unlock all content. Overall, grinding is seen as a double-edged sword that can detract from the overall experience.
“As a completionist, I'd love to 100% it, but this would be so very grindy; it'll probably at least double your playtime without providing that much fun.”
“It brought me and my partner many hours of joy before slowly grinding into an infuriating slog.”
“Getting 100% achievements was a bit boring considering the hours you have to spend grinding overtime and grinding for stamps.”
- atmosphere3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is characterized by its visual charm and playful art style, which together create a welcoming environment for both experienced players and newcomers. The thoughtful design of the levels and attention to detail contribute to a fun and engaging experience.
“This visual charm, combined with the moderate puzzle difficulty, creates a welcoming atmosphere for both seasoned puzzle lovers and newcomers.”
“Cosmetics and the set dressing for the various levels have a lot of love put into them, resulting in a playful and frankly fun atmosphere.”
“+ adorable atmosphere and art style”
- monetization2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game features a variety of level types and allows players to earn cosmetic options for their character through gameplay, with no microtransactions involved.
“There's also a ton of variety in the level types, and there are lots of cosmetic options you can earn for your bird by playing (no microtransactions).”
“There are no microtransactions.”
Critic Reviews
KeyWe Review – A crate load of fun
KeyWe is a charming and loveable two player experience that will have you coming back for more. If the small Kiwi bird protagonists don’t already have you sold, then the chaotic puzzle platforming levels will. It’s a postal post-office adventure worth taking along with a friend. You can also choose to play it alone, but two player is where it shines the most. With very little to complain about, KeyWe is a fun and joyful title worth your attention.
80%KeyWe Review - A Furiously Adorable Co-op Puzzler Everyone Can Enjoy
KeyWe is more than just an adorable concept, it actually backs it up with a thoroughly enjoyable co-op experience that always seems to know when to change things up in its formula without ever losing sight of what makes it tick. It’s possible to enjoy it solo, but honestly, that pales in comparison to joining friend or family in a round of buttslamming boxes and pecking papers to deliver the mail as the fuzziest little postal workers around.
85%KeyWe
Impressive efforts with a few noticeable problems holding them back. Won't astound everyone, but is worth your time and cash.
85%