Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo review (PS5)

Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo is a delightful fusion of retro charm and inventive gameplay, delivering a top-down action-adventure that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly original. Developed by Pocket Trap and published by PM Studios, this PlayStation 5 title (also available on all other major platforms) invites players into a vibrant urban landscape teeming with quirky characters, challenging puzzles, and a satirical narrative that cleverly critiques corporate overreach.

At the heart of the game is Pippit, a self-proclaimed yoyo master and the reluctant heir to the Pipistrello family’s energy empire. When a rival faction attacks, Pippit’s aunt, Madame Pipistrello, becomes partially trapped within his yoyo, setting the stage for a quest to recover her fragmented soul and thwart the ambitions of nefarious entrepreneurs. The narrative deftly balances humor and social commentary, offering a storyline that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

The game’s standout feature is its inventive use of the yoyo as both a weapon and a traversal tool. Players can execute a variety of tricks to combat enemies and navigate the city’s diverse districts, each filled with secrets and challenges. The mechanics are intuitive yet offer a surprising amount of depth as well, encouraging experimentation and rewarding mastery.

Visually, the game pays homage to the Game Boy Advance era, with pixel art that is both colorful and detailed. The character designs are expressive, and the environments are richly crafted, creating a world that feels alive and immersive. Complementing the visuals is a soundtrack featuring compositions by Yoko Shimomura, whose work adds emotional resonance and enhances the overall experience.

While the game excels in many areas and is pretty much a must-play, it is not without its flaws. Some players may find the difficulty curve steep, particularly in the early stages where limited health and resources can make progression challenging. Our tip is start over after getting a good feel for the mechanics, and give yourself a bit of a head start. Additionally, the debt system for upgrades, while thematically appropriate, may feel restrictive to those who prefer more straightforward progression mechanics.

Having said that, Pipistrello and the Cursed Yoyo is a standout title that combines inventive gameplay, a compelling narrative, and a distinctive aesthetic to create an experience that is both fun and meaningful. Its unique mechanics and satirical storytelling set it apart in the crowded action-adventure genre, making it a must-play for fans seeking something fresh and engaging, and one of this year’s best indies so far.

Score: 8.6/10