Ufouria: The Saga 2, published by Red Art Games and developed by Sunsoft, brings back the nostalgic charm of the original NES game that’s a bit of a cute cult classic while introducing fresh elements that make it stand out in today’s gaming landscape. Set in a whimsical and colorful world that’s being threatened by an alien invasion, the game follows the adventures of Hebe, a courageous penguin, and his quirky companions as they embark on a mission to cleanse their planet of gooey monsters known as Bumyon.
The premise of Ufouria: The Saga 2 combines classic platforming with slight exploration-based action, offering a blend of familiar characters and stages from the original game reimagined with a charming look and feel that resembles handmade feltwork. The transition from retro/pixel art to tactile textures adds a unique visual flair to the game, immersing players in a world crafted with care and creativity.
From the outset, players are introduced to Hebe’s quest to thwart the evil Utsujin and his nefarious plans. The game’s narrative, while whimsical and engaging, may lack depth for some (older) players but compensates with its endearing characters and lighthearted tone, making it a game that’s easy to fall in love with. The inclusion of fourth-wall-breaking humor adds an extra layer of charm to the storytelling, making it enjoyable for players of all ages and not just the younger ones.
In terms of gameplay mechanics, Ufouria: The Saga 2 offers a blend of traditional platforming and Metroidvania(-lite) elements, with players navigating through randomly changing stages filled with secrets and surprises. The ability to swap between different characters, each with their own unique skills, adds depth to the exploration, allowing players to access new areas and uncover hidden treasures over time.
The game’s visuals are a standout feature, with handcrafted textures and charming character designs that evoke a sense of nostalgia while feeling fresh and original. The use of iron bead artwork for character portraits adds a nostalgic touch, while the stop-motion-like animations breathe even more life and character into the world of Ufouria.
Accompanying the delightful visuals is a captivating soundtrack by Naoki Kodaka, featuring remade NES music with a modern twist. The catchy tunes and cute and whimsical melodies enhance the immersive experience, complementing the game’s charming aesthetic.
But while Ufouria: The Saga 2 excels in many areas, it may disappoint players seeking a greater challenge. The lack of a real difficulty curve and relatively simplistic boss battles may leave some players craving more substantial gameplay challenges. At the same time, the game’s reliance on hidden clues and limited guidance may frustrate players unfamiliar with the metroidvania genre’s conventions.
Despite these small drawbacks, Ufouria: The Saga 2 offers a fun platforming experience filled with charm, creativity, and nostalgia. With its visually stunning artwork, engaging gameplay mechanics, and cute storytelling, it’s a worthy addition to the platformer genre, appealing to both fans of the original game and newcomers alike. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant landscapes or embarking on a quest to cleanse the planet of gooey invaders, Ufouria: The Saga 2 is a heartwarming adventure for the young at heart.
Score: 7.8/10
Press Play Media 