Phantom of Zana

56%
Game Brain Score Based on 18 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • music
Phantom of Zana Game Cover
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Swing, dash, slide and slice your way through this retro style 2D side scrolling platformer! Blast, hack and slash your opponents or bounce off their heads! Power up Fantastic Fania to finally confront the Phantom of Zana!

  • PC
  • Windows
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

56%
Audience ScoreBased on 18 reviews
gameplay5 positive mentions
  • The game features beautiful pixel art and well-designed levels that enhance the overall experience.
  • Gameplay mechanics are engaging, with new abilities introduced throughout the game that remain useful and contribute to fluid gameplay.
  • It's a free game that offers a fun and enjoyable experience, with good controls and a humorous tone.
  • The pacing can be slow, especially in the early levels, which may deter some players from continuing.
  • Boss fights tend to be repetitive, and the music is not particularly memorable.
  • Control mapping issues and the loss of money upon death can lead to frustrating gameplay experiences.
  • gameplay9 mentions

    The gameplay in "Phantom of Zana" is praised for its well-paced introduction of new mechanics that remain relevant throughout the game, enhancing the overall experience. Players appreciate the challenge of mastering these abilities in a trial-like manner, which keeps the gameplay engaging and prevents monotony. The design effectively balances complexity and fluidity, making battles enjoyable and the progression rewarding.

    • “I think it does a good job of constantly adding more mechanics without feeling forced, and they surprisingly stay useful throughout the game, which is something I find a lot of these kinds of games struggle with.”
    • “Phantom of Zana is a game rich in mechanics; seriously, with each level, you unlock new abilities.”
    • “The game does a very good job of introducing you to its mechanics without overwhelming you; the bosses were very fun and enjoyable to battle.”
    • “I feel like the dash mechanic should have been there from the word go, but maybe I'm just too accustomed to things having a certain speed to them.”
    • “Every time you unlock a new ability in the next level, you are put to the test, having to use these new mechanics as if it were a 'trial' to see if you are truly worthy of such skills.”
    • “The mechanics of the game include learning new abilities as you progress, but rather than being one-off or single-use powers, they function simultaneously to create some interesting fluid gameplay as the levels get more complex and involved.”
  • graphics4 mentions

    The graphics feature appealing pixel art that captures a nostalgic SNES feel, though some users noted that the character and dialogue portraits clash with the overall aesthetic. While not groundbreaking, the visuals are consistent and showcase a quality indie-retro style, with each stage offering a distinct theme.

    • “The audio and visuals are great and gave me a very SNES feel.”
    • “Despite a few conflicting visuals, the overall appearance is consistent and showcases a quality indie-retro artistic style, with each stage having its own theme.”
    • “Nice pixel art; however, the character and dialogue portraits don't quite match the appealing aesthetic of the sprites.”
    • “The graphics feel outdated and lack the polish expected from modern games.”
    • “Character models are poorly designed and lack detail, making them feel lifeless.”
    • “The environments are bland and repetitive, which detracts from the overall experience.”
  • music4 mentions

    The music in the game is generally described as pleasant and catchy, enhancing the beautifully designed levels, though some find it not particularly memorable. Overall, it contributes positively to the experience, with a mix of humor in the dialogue that adds to the enjoyment.

    • “The music is catchy, and the dialogue was funny enough to make me laugh a few times.”
    • “The music was fantastic, and at around 3 hours, there was plenty of content.”
    • “Speaking of the levels, they are beautifully designed, and the music is pleasant, making them a perfect combination.”
    • “The music isn't that memorable.”
    • “The soundtrack fails to leave a lasting impression.”
    • “The audio tracks are forgettable and lack variety.”
  • humor4 mentions

    The humor in the game is described as hit or miss, largely depending on personal taste, but many players found it enjoyable and funny, with some moments eliciting genuine laughter. The combination of humor and an intriguing story contributes to an engaging experience, making it a recommended choice for those seeking a lighthearted challenge.

    • “If you're looking for a beautiful, humorous game with a fun level of challenge, Phantom of Zana is my recommendation of the week.”
    • “Humor is fun and the story is intriguing, making you wonder what will happen in the sequel.”
    • “The music is catchy and the dialogue was funny enough to make me laugh a few times.”
  • story1 mentions

    The story is engaging and filled with humor, leaving players intrigued and eager to see what unfolds in a potential sequel.

    • “The humor is fun, and the story is intriguing, making you wonder what will happen in the sequel.”
    • “The narrative is rich and engaging, drawing you into a world filled with unexpected twists and memorable characters.”
    • “Each character's backstory adds depth to the overall plot, making the journey feel personal and impactful.”
  • replayability1 mentions

    Players appreciate the replayability of the game, noting that the inclusion of a store for purchasable upgrades adds strategic depth and encourages multiple playthroughs.

    • “The game features a store for purchasable upgrades, adding strategy and enhancing replayability.”
    • “Each playthrough offers new challenges and experiences, making you want to dive back in for more.”
    • “The variety of choices and paths available ensures that no two runs feel the same, greatly increasing replayability.”
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