Pixel-Metroidvania Dominates Indies – PlayStation Players Get It for Free

The indie game Animal Well has become a surprise hit of the year, earning high praise and solid reviews from the gaming community and critics. Developed by Billy Basso and published by Bigmode, the label founded by YouTube's Videogamedunkey, this pixel-art styled Metroidvania game has garnered strong scores across various platforms, with 89% on Opencritic and 91% on Metacritic for the PC version. PS5 players with a PS Plus subscription can enjoy the game without additional cost as part of the service. Animal Well forgoes traditional combat and focuses on exploration, puzzles, and secrets, introducing players to a world full of dangers and mysteries as they maneuver a small slime ball through an enchanting underworld environment. The game's unconventional approach to the Metroidvania genre has secured its position as one of the best-rated games of the year.

What is unique about the gameplay mechanics in Animal Well?

Animal Well stands out with its lack of traditional combat and complicated platforming sequences, prioritizing puzzles and exploration over battles. Players don't directly fight enemies but must instead use strategy to outwit or distract them, allowing for safe passage and continued discovery of the game's immersive world.

Animal Well has captured the hearts of players by offering a distinctive take on the Metroidvania genre. By transcending typical genre features such as intense combat and challenging platforming, the game introduces a more cerebral and exploratory experience that caters to gamers who appreciate intricate puzzles and atmospheric adventure. Furthermore, the engagement with the Metroidvania form in Animal Well emphasizes the genre’s versatility and ability to evolve by eschewing expectations and embracing innovation within its design philosophy.