iaidoka_interlude Reviews

[h1] Short and Sweet [/h1] Iaidoka_interlude is a well-balanced, challenging platformer. The controls feel smooth and responsive. The levels/sub-levels are well-designed and have a good sense of flow to them. I find it very easy to pick up and play this game for, say 20 minutes or less and put it down feeling satisfied. This game does have a level-select (of which there are 5). It will usually take me about 40-45 minutes to beat the whole game; with practice, it could be done in less time. I enjoy playing a kind of "meta-game" in finding the most efficient solution to each sub-level (essentially speed-running practice). I feel like every time I run through the game, I find a new trick, timing, or method that saves time. The graphics and themes are stylish and aesthetically-pleasing. The sounds and music are pleasant, though I always appreciate the ability to mute as I like to multi-task. I have encountered a handful of bugs, often involving a wall or ledge, but they are few and far in-between. Usually, I don't see any in a single play-through. The enemy behavior does throw in a bit of randomness that can augment absolute speed-running consistency, but then it might be far too easy if they were more predictable. Nonetheless, there is a decent variety of enemy types. One small addition I would love is some kind of indication on the exits that the next screen, the player will be going in the opposite direction. It happens about a dozen times, which I like and it only takes some memorization on my part, but a little arrow would make the levels just flow really well together. I don't have any real complaints. I'd like more levels, but the amount it has is apt for the price tag. It seems this game used to be a game called "Jump/Boxer." The dev gave the option to revert this game into that game if you want to try it, which I think is cool. I have yet to play it, but it seems most of the negative reviews are for that game. I hope others will look deeper into iaidoka_interlude despite the mixed rating, because I think it's worth playing, especially for the price.