Cave Story®+

For context, I have previously played the original PC version, this remastered version (via Steam), and the Nintendo Switch version. The game itself is a fairly short 2D platformer, and is essentially baby's first Metroidvania, with most progression being fairly straightforward and not having to go all that heavily out of your way for power-ups such as health boosts. The world and characters aren't very deep, but are still interesting and loveable none-the-less. I do recommend this game, however the version on PC isn't ideal, as it is missing a lot features from the Nintendo Switch version, such as additional soundtrack options, animated textbox sprites, more detailed visuals, the 'Sand Pit' challenge mode, and various other quality-of-life features and bugfixes. This game is a lovely short experience, and if you wish to own this remaster DRM-free I'd argue this version is still worthwhile, but there are unfortunately better ways to experience this game. I'd probably raise the rating a little if it at least came with the original freeware version for convenience, too, but at this time it doesn't.

Well, what more needs to be said about this game in 2021? We're basically talking about the grandfather of indies games, a milestone in gaming history, who challenged the status quo of a time when the industry continued to focus exaggeratedly only on the graphic power of its titles, leaving behind the gameplay and simplicity characteristic of the 8-bit and 16-bit gold era. Cave Story was bold and went against the grain, showing everyone that the "oldschool" market was always alive, as it is today, and it certainly served as an empowerment for most of the indies games that would follow, especially after the big boom of "Braid" in 2008. Extremely fluid, with flawless soundtrack, loud replay fact and visceral story, it's a title that has aged remarkably well, and is more current than ever. It follows challenging, poetic, pleasurable, provocative and fun. Exactly the kind of experience that carries the DNA of video games. Long live Daisuke Amaya (Pixel) masterpiece, which gets even better in this "+" version, with more content that perfectly matches the original work. It is a must buy for absolutely any player, including those who have already purchased a copy on another platform. Big day for us GOG users!

Arguably one of my favorite games of all times. It defined what indie are mostly now, back in 2004 with the talented Daisuke Amaya. It's not very long but that also encourages for multiple playthroughs, finding new secrets, discover new endings, weapons and an entire final secret level! It never gets old, the physics, different weapons, routes, enemy behiavor, level design, bosses. If you want a simple 2D Metroidvania with shooter mechanics type of game, this is one of the best one out there.

Even the first version of the game (freeware title with rather basic graphics and audio) is an extremely enjoyable platform game. It's a mix of a traditional platform game (but without extremely frustrating sequences) and a "shooting platform game" (like the Jazz Jackrabbit series). together with a surprisingly engaging and genuinely interesting plot. By the way - even if you're not a big fan of anime aesthetics, give it game a try, it doesn't go too deeply into that direction. The looks might be a bit deceiving because, under that "infantile" appearance, there are some surprisingly mature tones. The "commercial" version of the game (with "plus" in the title) is enhanced with graphics, audio and some additional modes. They're not revolutionary, but due to a rather low price, I would still recommend getting this version - enhanced graphics doesn't lose too much from its initial charm and audio is vastly improved. It's a bit shame though, that the final sequence of the game (which is partially hidden due to the necessity of fulfilling some conditions, they're a bit cryptic) is so extremely brutal. I know it's supposed to be a challenge, but due to the save game system (you can save only at some moments), be prepared for repeating it many times. And to be honest, sometimes save games can be a bit problematic even during your first gameplay (some sequences/bosses can be a bit hard to complete on the first attempt). But other than that - it's definitely a title worth playing and completing.