Sephonie, originally released by Analgesic Productions and ported over to consoles by Ratalaika, embarks players on a contemplative journey through an enigmatic island filled with primitive life forms. Set against the backdrop of a 3D platformer, the game combines platforming mechanics with visual novel-style storytelling and line-matching puzzles for an interesting mashup of genres. Though not without its flaws, Sephonie dares to experiment with conventions, making it a standout in the realm of 3D narrative platformers.
In Sephonie, players assume the roles of three researchers – Amy, Riyou, and Ing-wen – who are shipwrecked on the mysterious Sephonie Island. Armed with ONYX implants, their task is to explore the vast cave network, connect with the island’s peculiar life forms, and study the unique ecosystem. The game tells players a story of camaraderie and self-discovery as the trio navigates the island’s mysterious terrain, delving into their memories and dreams as they go along. While the concept is intriguing, the narrative’s execution occasionally falls short as the storytelling feels like it could be more focused at times – something that comes from the visual novel inspired scenes with can feel overly wordy.
Sephonie’s gameplay shines most brightly in its blend of 3D platforming and line-matching puzzles. Players can switch between the three researchers, each possessing an identical acrobatic moveset, including wall running, jumping, and environmental interaction. Platforming through the island’s varied and challenging environments is mostly a fluid affair, albeit with occasional small control issues, as sprinting always felt a little awkward. The linking process, which involves connecting with the island’s creatures through puzzles, grants new traversal abilities, giving Sephonie subtle Metroidvania vibes at times. The puzzles themselves, while engaging and fair, may occasionally lack clear progression indicators though, leading to moments of confusion and random experimentation – though nothing too bad.
Sephonie sports a low-poly aesthetic reminiscent of early 3D platformers, but delivered in high definition. It manages to create a unique atmosphere with the island’s abstract and dream-like environments though, which are backed up with lovely meditative music that immerses players in the game’s dreamlike world. There are parts of the environment that we wish were a little less abstract, but this is an indie production so a relatively lack of detail is easy to forgive.
The game’s engaging 3D platforming mechanics provide challenging and varied environments, offering a gratifying experience for players looking for a new platformer to play. The intriguing line-matching puzzles complement (and break up) the exploration aspect nicely, creating a unique blend of genres. Sephonie’s unique low-poly art style, combined with thought-provoking sequences delving into the subconscious, adds depth to the game’s visual and emotional appeal.
The narrative execution suffers a bit from the visual novel sections and some characters lack depth from a storytelling point of view, but Sephonie still manages to stand out in the indie 3D platformer genre, blending platforming, puzzles, and storytelling in an original manner. While its narrative execution and character portrayal have room for improvement, the game’s solid platforming mechanics and surreal environments offer a unique and immersive experience. Players who appreciate a leisurely atmosphere and exploration-focused gameplay will find Sephonie an enjoyable journey into the depths of Sephonie Island.
Score: 7.3/10
Press Play Media 