This is an off-beat game with a surreal-like nature and it works surprisingly well. The combat is right and never feels unresponsive, and the different builds available for your character are all very well thought out. It really feels like a game that you can play at your own speed and in your own style, no matter what that style is.
Another thing that helps is that The Weird Dream feels more non-linear than most Metroidvanias have in a long time. The fragmented nature of the story lets you discover things at a good pace and explore the way you want. More to the point, this is a game where it really feels possible to get lost and that is something I feel has been lacking in most Metroidvania titles in recent years.
Is it a perfect game? Well no, the bosses can be more frustrating than they need to be at times, and the music in the game is a little too strange at times for my liking. Getting lost can also be frustrating at times, just as much as it can be exciting, but this one feels like an intended effect and therefore I cannot fault that aspect.
One thing I need to mention is that the level design is handled so well and every aspect of it is something that makes the game stand out more. The entire setting feels realized to such a degree that the world feels like the most important character in the game. The characters themselves are well handled, but I do not wish to give spoilers in that regard.
I have had more fun with The Weird Dream than I have had with some AAA titles lately, names will not be mentioned there though, and this is a perfect example of an indie game that shows off true passion. The unique visuals work so well, here and the way combat is handled fits that surreal atmosphere so perfectly that it cannot be understated how much care must have been placed into this game. I will probably keep playing it because I doubt I saw everything, and I feel this is a Metroidvania that all must play. You will not regret it.
Disclaimer: A review key was provided
