Squidlit
- March 2, 2018
- Super Squidlit
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Get on itch.io Store"Squidlit" is a humorous single-player platformer game with a standout plot and unique mechanics. Jump and ink downwards on enemies as you navigate through the 8-bit inspired world with a stunning soundtrack, designed to mimic Game Boy hardware limitations. Can you stop Skwit Skwot and save the squidlits?
Reviews
- Charming and nostalgic Game Boy aesthetic with cute graphics and humorous dialogue.
- Simple and enjoyable gameplay that captures the essence of classic platformers.
- Very affordable price for a short but delightful experience, making it accessible to a wide audience.
- Extremely short gameplay, typically taking only 30-45 minutes to complete, which may leave players wanting more.
- Lack of a save feature requires players to finish the game in one sitting, which can be inconvenient.
- Some players found the gameplay too simplistic and lacking in challenge, with limited mechanics.
- gameplay38 mentions
- 24 % positive mentions
- 68 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game is characterized by its simplicity and charm, appealing to nostalgia with its Game Boy-inspired design. While some players appreciate the straightforward mechanics and variety in enemy types, others find the gameplay lacking depth and challenge, leading to a mixed reception. Overall, it offers a short, enjoyable experience that may not fully realize its potential but remains entertaining for those who appreciate its cute aesthetics and humor.
“Good sense of humor, simple aesthetics that do their job, straightforward gameplay with no noticeable bugs or issues. Reasonably priced, everything considered, worth it if this is your kind of deal.”
“The gameplay feels solid and intuitive, and the aesthetics of the game are pretty nice.”
“Squidlit is a platforming game very obviously inspired by the Game Boy days, not just in visual design but also in the way the levels and gameplay are structured, and it does what it sets out to do quite well, providing a cute storyline, fun characters, and an entertaining if not all that challenging half-hour of gameplay.”
“Unfortunately, Squidlit completely fails to deliver on any gameplay potential.”
“It's not a very long or mechanically deep game.”
“At its heart, it’s a simple little platformer that wrings just enough out of its main mechanic of only being able to shoot ink directly downwards at your enemies or other objectives that at less than half an hour, it doesn’t outstay its welcome.”
- graphics38 mentions
- 42 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are widely praised for their charming and nostalgic homage to the original Game Boy aesthetic, featuring simple yet effective pixel art that captures the retro feel. While some users noted issues with visibility and eye strain due to the graphics, many appreciated the cute and cozy visuals that enhance the overall experience. Overall, the graphics are considered a strong point, appealing to both retro gamers and those who enjoy a whimsical art style.
“Squidlit is a short platformer featuring pixel graphics, music, and sounds, reminiscent of the original Game Boy.”
“The visuals are pretty nice and do capture the look and feel of the original Game Boy, which is nice.”
“It's a cute and utterly wholesome little platformer that perfectly emulates the old Game Boy aesthetic to a fault, even giving it a choppy 40 fps framerate.”
“Ugly graphics with characters whose sprites are nigh indiscernible.”
“From the grating and repetitive chiptune to the eye-searing and annoying visuals; this game tries to be anything but good.”
“1 problem I did have with the game is that due to the nature of the graphics and the fact that you're constantly jumping around, you can experience a little eye strain.”
- music36 mentions
- 47 % positive mentions
- 44 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The music in Squidlit has received mixed reviews, with many praising its nostalgic chiptune soundtrack that evokes classic Game Boy titles, while others find it ear-piercing or annoying. Overall, the retro-inspired sound design is considered charming and well-executed, contributing positively to the game's cute aesthetic, though some players wish for more control over the volume. Despite some criticisms, the music is often highlighted as a standout feature that enhances the overall experience.
“Absolutely loved this game, from the presentation, music, and especially the enemy designs.”
“The soundtrack is absolutely amazing, and the nostalgia hit hard with every beep and boop.”
“Come for the totally-not-squids-if-you-watch-jim-sterling, stay for the fantastic music.”
“Terrible ear-piercing music.”
“Oh, and the music grates on me.”
“My only objection is the annoying music which does not turn off or down.”
- humor25 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is widely praised for its charming and humorous elements, featuring witty dialogue, cute characters, and a lighthearted aesthetic. Players appreciate the simple yet engaging gameplay, which is complemented by funny references and comedic moments throughout. Overall, the humor adds a delightful touch to the experience, making it a worthwhile and enjoyable platformer.
“The game is very cute and funny; the gameplay is simple, but that's by design.”
“Such a fun and cute little game! You can really feel the love that went into creating the characters, the funny dialogues, and the charming art style.”
“This game is actually not only really simple (like a Game Boy game) but also kind of funny in its references and dialogues.”
- story25 mentions
- 28 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
The story of "Squidlit" is a straightforward and whimsical quest where players control a squid-like creature on a mission to thwart the evil plans of a villain, the skwit skwot. While the narrative is simple and reminiscent of a child's storybook, it is infused with charm and humor, complemented by well-written characters and engaging visuals. Overall, the game offers a nostalgic experience with a light-hearted plot that aligns well with its playful aesthetic.
“In Squidlit, you play as a squidlit on a quest to journey to the local castle and stop the evil Skwit Skwot (God Emperor) from whatever evil things he has planned.”
“Anyway, there is actually a story as well, and it is perfectly in keeping with the overall whimsical nature of the game.”
“And that is it for the story.”
“Nothing new or unique, just the minimum stuff to make a story.”
“The story, characters, and settings are presented in this simplistic and childlike manner that is straight out of a first grader's storybook.”
- replayability11 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 45 % neutral mentions
- 27 % negative mentions
The game's replayability is mixed; while some players find enjoyment in pursuing achievements and speedrunning, others feel that the short length limits overall replay value. For achievement hunters, there are challenges that can extend playtime, but those uninterested in achievements may find little incentive to replay. Overall, the game offers a fun experience, but its replayability largely hinges on individual player goals.
“They definitely offer a touch of replayability, and there's even something for casual speedrunners in there.”
“I totally recommend playing this game due to everything I just listed and the fun replay value, and I can't wait to play Super Squidlit!”
“Finished my first playthrough in about 45 minutes but only unlocked 10% of all achievements along the way, so there might be some replay value here.”
“Normally I wouldn't care, but since most of the intended replay value is in the goals set by the achievements themselves, it's hard not to be let down.”
“If you're not an achievement hunter or bought it on another platform, Squidlit is devoid of replayability.”
“There isn't any replay value either - you see absolutely everything the game has to offer in those 30 minutes.”
- emotional5 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its emotional impact, evoking nostalgia and warmth through its wholesome gameplay and retro Game Boy aesthetic. Reviewers appreciate its straightforward charm, likening it to a heartfelt love letter to classic childhood games.
“My girlfriend loved this game, and I enjoyed its wholesomeness.”
“It really comes across as a love letter to these old, simple, wholesome games you used to play as a kid.”
“It's a cute and utterly wholesome little platformer that perfectly emulates the old Game Boy aesthetic to a fault, even giving it a choppy 40 fps framerate.”
- character development2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is highlighted by its adorable and well-designed characters, which contribute to a nostalgic and enjoyable experience. Players appreciate the charming aesthetics and engaging levels, suggesting that a sequel could further enhance these elements.
“The character development is incredibly engaging, making each character feel unique and memorable.”
“I love how the characters evolve throughout the game, their backstories add so much depth to the experience.”
“The way the characters grow and change based on player choices is truly impressive and adds a personal touch to the story.”
- stability1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its stability, with users reporting smooth performance and no significant issues, contributing to an overall positive experience.
“I have no real negatives with this game: it runs great, looks and sounds good, everything is adorable, and it's a great game overall.”
