A Retro Re-imagining
Platformers are a rather linear genre but the Switch is home to some of the best. While they may be packed with charm, harbor tight controls and burst with color, the worlds are more of a set-piece to the gameplay. This is shown in the introduction to Wunderling by Retroid Interactive, as you take control of the lead protagonist Carrotman. While there is a ton of fun to be had in Carrotman’s quest to recover a portal-making staff, the solid platform level is a simple distraction of what’s to come as we are introduced to the Wunderling. Aided by the magic of a witch akin to Kamek in Yoshi’s Island you are revived after being viciously stomped on by Carrotman. It is up to you as a newly-revived minion to stop the vigilante and recover the staff.
Goombatized
The Wunderling is a humble creature. Akin to a Goomba from Super Mario Bros. or a Badnik from Sonic the Hedgehog, you move automatically and only turn when you hit a wall. You are able to jump with the A or B button, but starting out those are the only controls available to you. Using your limited skillset you must traverse the perilous world behind Carrotman. This is where Wunderling shows its true nature as a puzzle game with light platforming. All of the traditional elements are present, from crumbling platforms to trampoline jumps, and Wunderling does a great job at giving them a unique twist from a fun perspective. Conquering these familiar challenges using the limited skills of a basic enemy is a fun and engaging experience with rewarding progression. With alternate routes and treasures in plain sight, you will not be able to help but wonder how you are supposed to get there. It’s even more fun when you discover how.
A Goon of my Own
While the charm of the game is in being a rank-and-file type enemy, the treasures you find along the way are filled with costume pieces. Dressing up your Wunderling proves to be a fun experience with the wide variety of cosmetics you will unlock. This also feels very rewarding as the treasures in this game are not easily obtained. The tight controls are complemented by their application in-game, as you will need to understand the mechanics of your jumps and momentum to catapult yourself to these achievements. This is made easier later when your Wunderling learns some new moves, but the challenge only rises to meet these mechanics as you progress. This learning curve can be a bit harsh at times, as getting to the portals to move on to the next level can become a bit frustrating. The collectibles in the game also add to this minor frustration, as your Wunderling will eventually die without constantly collecting them.
Witty and Charming
The aesthetic of Wunderling is bursting with charm, personality and conveys an atmosphere of pure fun. From the pixel-perfect visuals, to the quick and clever dialogue, you will be hard pressed to stop smiling while playing. It is also the perfect game on the go, as the limited controls prove to be perfect for quick downtime sessions. Each world feels fresh and never overstays its welcome, as you are able to move on to the next after completing 9 out of the 12 total levels each one houses. Many of these worlds introduce new environmental gameplay mechanics as well which lends a sense of anticipation to your progression. From slippery surfaces to cannonball creatures, each of these mechanics is presented in a way that never detracts from the aesthetic of the environment.
All Hero, No Zero
Wunderling is a great casual title that can be easily enjoyed by everyone. It is filled to the brim with inspired charm and packs a solid gameplay punch. The accessibility of the limited control scheme does nothing to detract from its depth, offered by the fantastic level design, and proves to be great for showing off the Switch’s portable edge. From its fun riff on retro platformers, to its tight and compelling gameplay, Wunderling is a great time on the Switch. When you can, pick this one up for hours of fun puzzles, exciting platforming and wacky dialogue.
