Violet Wisteria
- February 8, 2023
- Kanipro Games
Get on SteamIn Violet Wisteria, play as Wisteria Asagiri and navigate through multiple dimensions to stop Maskandes' evil plot. Master the unique tri-color attack system, where each color is strong against one but weak against another, to defeat enemies and obstacles. With inspiration from 80s and 90s fantasy platformers, players must use quick thinking and strategy to reach the heart-wrenching finale.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- Violet Wisteria is a challenging retro-style action platformer that successfully captures the essence of 90's gaming, drawing inspiration from the Valis series.
- The unique color mechanic adds depth to the gameplay, requiring players to strategize and adapt to different enemy color weaknesses, which can lead to interesting combat dynamics.
- The game features beautiful graphics, catchy music, and a nostalgic atmosphere that appeals to fans of classic platformers.
- The color mechanic can be frustrating, as enemy color weaknesses change randomly, making it difficult for players to remember strategies and leading to frequent game overs.
- Some players feel that the game needed more rigorous playtesting and polish, particularly regarding the music and control scheme, which can detract from the overall experience.
- The game may not appeal to everyone due to its high difficulty level and the steep learning curve associated with mastering the color-switching mechanics.
- gameplay36 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 58 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the title features a unique color attack mechanic that requires players to adapt their strategies based on enemy colors, reminiscent of classic platformers but with a modern twist. While some players appreciate the challenge and depth this mechanic adds, others find it detracts from the overall enjoyment due to its complexity and the lack of fixed enemy colors. Overall, the game offers a solid retro experience with engaging mechanics, beautiful art direction, and a captivating soundtrack, though opinions on the color system are mixed.
“The game's action platformer gimmick is a 3-color mechanic that forces you to change colors to defeat enemies or use them to your advantage.”
“It's challenging, has a beautiful art direction, a fantastic soundtrack, and the attack color mechanic really leads to some interesting strategies.”
“The color attack and boost mechanics are satisfying and keep your interest throughout the game.”
“The designer was too in love with the 3 elemental rock/paper/scissors mechanics of the game that it completely took away from the immediacy and feel of the game.”
“The color mechanic is what is holding me back.”
“Also, I get that the color attack system was an attempt to make this stand out and lead to different gameplay possibilities, but I'm not feeling that at all.”
- music26 mentions
- 31 % positive mentions
- 58 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many praising its catchy and nostalgic qualities reminiscent of the 90s and 2000s. While some users find the soundtrack to be a highlight that enhances the gameplay experience, others have noted issues with the sound quality, describing it as "kind of broken." Overall, the music is seen as a strong aspect that complements the game's retro aesthetic and challenging mechanics.
“It has a strong challenge and good music, so I highly recommend it to gamers looking for a retro platformer fix.”
“From the cut-scenes, the music and the graphics you can see that inspiration all over this, and it's very well done.”
“It's challenging, has a beautiful art direction, a fantastic soundtrack, and the attack color mechanic really leads to some interesting strategies.”
“And, I'm going to be much more of a debbie-downer here, but the music... well the music sounds kind of broken.”
“And, I'm going to be much more of a debbie-downer here, but the music... well the music sounds kind of broken.”
“And, I'm going to be much more of a debbie-downer here, but the music... well the music sounds kind of broken.”
- graphics10 mentions
- 30 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
The graphics are highly praised for their imaginative and detailed design, featuring unique elements like organic stage settings and eyeball platforms. Reviewers note that the visuals are solid and well-executed, enhancing the overall experience with captivating cut-scenes and a rich aesthetic. Each new stage offers a visually rewarding experience, showcasing the game's artistic inspiration.
“From the cut-scenes, the music and the graphics, you can see that inspiration all over this and it's very well done.”
“Thankfully, the visuals are extremely well done and so full of imagination that being able to see each new stage is a real treat.”
“Random graphic details like organic stage settings or eyeball platforms create a unique atmosphere.”
“Random graphic details like organic stage settings or eyeball platforms, blood drips from the ceiling.”
“Random graphic details like organic stage settings or eyeball platforms.”
“Graphics are also very solid.”
- story4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The story is described as somewhat lacking in depth, with combat mechanics that do not enhance the overall narrative experience. While it may appeal to fans of the PC Engine era, the storytelling and presentation do not significantly elevate the gameplay.
“It'd be a different story if they were weak to their own color, but that added step to each encounter doesn't make combat more interesting, if I'm being honest.”
“For the gameplay, storytelling, and presentation, it scratches that PC Engine itch.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the humor in the game, particularly noting that the unusual enemy designs elicit laughter upon their first appearance. The combination of detailed backgrounds and effective animations enhances the overall comedic experience.
“The enemy designs are varied and interesting—there are some enemies that made me laugh when they first appeared because of how unusual they were.”
