Silver Grapple
- August 25, 2017
- Jamie Rollo
- 16h median play time
Get on Steam
Get on itch.io StoreSilver Grapple is a physics-based puzzle platformer where you use a grappling hook to swing through levels. Solve challenges by collecting orbs and reach the goal within the time limit. With limited energy for your grapple, plan your moves carefully and watch out for environmental hazards.
Reviews
- The grappling hook mechanic is satisfying and well-implemented, providing a unique and enjoyable platforming experience.
- The game features tight controls and a fair difficulty curve, allowing players to feel a sense of accomplishment after overcoming challenging sections.
- The art style, music, and storytelling are engaging, reminiscent of classic games like Cave Story, and add depth to the overall experience.
- The game can be extremely difficult, leading to frustration for players who may not have a high tolerance for challenging platformers.
- The camera is too close to the character, making it hard to judge jumps and grapple points, which can result in trial-and-error gameplay.
- There is a lack of resources and community support for players seeking help, making exploration and progression more challenging.
- gameplay19 mentions
- 42 % positive mentions
- 42 % neutral mentions
- 16 % negative mentions
The gameplay is centered around a unique grappling hook mechanic that offers a fun and challenging platforming experience, with clever level design and a satisfying difficulty curve. Players appreciate the tight controls and the rewarding feeling of mastering new mechanics, although some find the camera positioning problematic for navigation. Overall, the gameplay is engaging and complemented by a pleasing chiptune soundtrack, making it a standout feature of the game.
“A fun adventure with a unique rope swinging mechanic.”
“The grappling mechanic feels great, and whenever you finish a tricky section it feels good, because the controls are extremely tight and work well with the physics the developer worked out.”
“One very simple concept, but used in many very clever ways with new mechanics in each area.”
“The real problem: the camera is too close to the character for this kind of gameplay.”
“I thought using the map would help, but it's really hard to calculate distances with it, and even if it was useful, that's not the kind of gameplay I'm looking for.”
“It's difficult though, and it's an unusual form of platforming gameplay, but if you're up for that, I think it's a good time.”
- story14 mentions
- 36 % positive mentions
- 43 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The game's story is engaging and features interesting twists, including two different endings and a side romance, though it often takes a backseat to gameplay. Inspired by "Cave Story," the narrative is delivered through journal entries that add depth, making exploration rewarding for those who seek it. Overall, while the story is intriguing and well-crafted, it remains optional and secondary to the gameplay experience.
“The game also has a pretty interesting story (at least for what it needs to be, it does take a backseat to the gameplay). There’s an interesting twist, two different endings, and even a side romance.”
“The story is nuanced and told through journal entries, which is really cool and adds another layer of depth to the game, trying to collect them all, because some are in out of the way, hard to reach spots.”
“The story and lore in the game were deep enough to get me invested, although they are completely optional and secondary to the gameplay.”
“As others have pointed out, the game feels very inspired by Cave Story, but it is also all its own.”
“Metroidvania-flavored level design and upgrades, storytelling and presentation reminiscent of Cave Story.”
- music11 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 45 % neutral mentions
- 27 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received widespread acclaim, with many reviewers praising its phenomenal quality and cohesive integration with the game's aesthetic. The chiptune soundtrack enhances the gameplay experience, evoking nostalgia and adding personality to the characters and environments. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a standout feature that significantly contributes to the game's charm and enjoyment.
“The music was phenomenal, the story was interesting, and the satisfaction of finally beating the final level brought me to tears!”
“The music is spot on, and every area worked well in both aesthetic and music, with the melody being present in all of the tracks, adding a lot of cohesion.”
“The OST in Silver Grapple is worth mentioning, as the chiptune soundtrack accompanying the gameplay was very pleasing to listen to.”
“The OST in Silver Grapple is also worth mentioning, as the chiptune soundtrack accompanying the gameplay was very pleasing to listen to.”
“The characters have personality and even the music does too.”
“Love the music, the art is, as someone already aptly pointed out, reminiscent of Cave Story, and the gameplay is really quite fun.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The graphics are reminiscent of classic titles like Cave Story, featuring a retro and simplistic art style that enhances the overall aesthetic and mood of the game. While the cohesive music complements the visuals well, some players find that the similarity in early areas can lead to confusion and backtracking. Overall, the level design is praised for its thoughtful integration of helpful tools that improve the player's experience.
“The music is spot on, and every area worked well in both aesthetic and music, with the melody being present in all of the tracks, adding a lot of cohesion.”
“The game starts really cool with that Cave Story vibe thanks to the graphics and some really nice music.”
“A downside to the retro/simplistic art style is several areas in the beginning stages look so alike that it’s easy to get lost or accidentally retread places and puzzles you don’t need to.”
“The cave story-like graphics and storytelling, my unfounded love for grappling hooks.”
“If you liked Cave Story, you will love the art style, music, and mood.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find the emotional aspect of the game to be rewarding, as the linear platforming combined with the challenge of unlocking new elements evokes a sense of intelligence and accomplishment.
“The game's story resonated with me on a personal level, making me reflect on my own experiences.”
“I felt a deep connection to the characters, and their struggles mirrored my own emotions.”
“The emotional weight of the narrative left a lasting impact, making me think about it long after I finished playing.”
