Catmaze Switch review

Ratalaika Games recently have been very active in regards to recent releases. Their latest one is from Indie developer Redback Spade and is a Metroidvania style game with cute visuals and inspired by Slavic mythology. Originally released back in 2018 on Steam it has now seen light of day on current gen consoles so more people can enjoy it. Let’s look at Catmaze below.

Meow!!!

Catmaze is a game that is different as it is based on Slavic mythology. I don’t recall a game being based on this before, but if you are familiar with it then you will definitely recognise various aspects. The main character is a teen witch called Alesta, who is shaped after a tragic event early in the game. Exploring the world you are trying to accomplish something that was deemed impossible and as with traditional Metroidvania you find yourself going back and forth while you acquire new skills and upgrades from progressing.

A Cats Life

The story is good and the characters are relatable in what they are doing. The story might not be one of the more strongest selling points of the game, but it fun and engaging enough to keep you playing it. There is no voice acting and the story is told using text boxes and the travel journal of Alesta, as she makes notes of people she meets and things she have to do next. This is often found in RPG’s as a quest journal.

Each character reveals a different part of the history and story of the city and they all appear prominently which ever path you follow. You don’t need to play through each of the paths to get the general story and one play though will give value for money. But to get the fullest experience replay through each of the paths and you will get the full experience, which is worth the effort. The game is a bit short but this is a case of quality over quantity.

Not So Puurrfect

Being Metroidvania the game does have its quirks and problems. The map is one of these issues as when progress and unlock areas the map stays the same colour, so no way to tell the biomes apart. Not an issue early on but as the map opens it becomes a challenge. Also while going back in the norm in this genre, being forced to go back to areas you completed does get frustrating at times.

Looking Good

The visuals are cute and colourful and the characters have the Anime look about them. The level designs are thought out with the balance of challenging and easy to navigate. The soundtrack brings the atmosphere but the sound effects are average and don’t make the game stand out. The open world is fun and exploring and finding treasures is the strongest point of this title.

Final Thoughts

Catmaze is a Metroidvania style game that does what it says on the tin. It has cute graphics, good story and fun gameplay. It can be frustrating as with this genre, but rewarding as well. A few issues but nothing game breaking. This is a game that is worthy of a purchase whether you are seasoned or beginner.