Aggelos, the retro-inspired platformer from Greek developer Storybird Games, delivers a compact and polished experience on Nintendo Switch.
Reviewed on the Switch with a review copy provided by publisher PQube, the title channels 16-bit aesthetics and classic platforming mechanics while integrating light RPG systems.
The review by Dan Lipscombe awarded the game a 9/10, highlighting how Aggelos balances nostalgia with modern design sensibilities.
Background and context
Aggelos wears its influences openly: the title's bright, oversized sprites and pixel art recall the look and feel of classic 16-bit platformers, with nods to series like Wonder Boy and Mega Man.
Storybird Games has crafted a game that blends Metroidvania-style exploration with action-RPG elements—enemies drop coins and experience, and bosses unlock new abilities that in turn open previously inaccessible areas.
The Switch version supports both handheld and docked play, and is available through the Nintendo eShop.
Combat, progression, and retro design
The review emphasizes responsive, tightly controlled platforming and combat that nonetheless retains the unforgiving edge of older games.
Enemies respawn when revisiting areas, and boss encounters loom as major challenges at the end of each world.
The experience economy mixes currency, equipment upgrades, and an XP-driven magic gauge: defeating the first major boss grants a mechanic that temporarily transforms foes into platforms, enabling further progression until the meter is refilled through combat.
Paraphrased commentary
The reviewer noted that Aggelos avoids the tedium that can afflict some retro revivals, explaining that routine backtracking often yields small rewards and that contemporary touches—such as elemental weapon advantages and a one-use revival herb—help modernize the formula.
Lipscombe also observed that while the RPG framework functions adequately, it lacks deeper customization beyond weapon and armor choices.
Assessment and final thoughts
Aggelos is presented as a concise, well-crafted indie platformer that captures the spirit of Saturday-morning cartoon adventures without overstaying its welcome.
The review praises its presentation and pacing, and cites the game’s short runtime as the primary drawback for some players.
Overall, the title stands as a strong example of retro-inspired design executed with modern conveniences on Nintendo Switch.
Version Tested: Nintendo Switch.
Review copy provided by PQube.
Final score: 9/10.
Reviewed on the Switch with a review copy provided by publisher PQube, the title channels 16-bit aesthetics and classic platforming mechanics while integrating light RPG systems.
The review by Dan Lipscombe awarded the game a 9/10, highlighting how Aggelos balances nostalgia with modern design sensibilities.
Background and context
Aggelos wears its influences openly: the title's bright, oversized sprites and pixel art recall the look and feel of classic 16-bit platformers, with nods to series like Wonder Boy and Mega Man.
Storybird Games has crafted a game that blends Metroidvania-style exploration with action-RPG elements—enemies drop coins and experience, and bosses unlock new abilities that in turn open previously inaccessible areas.
The Switch version supports both handheld and docked play, and is available through the Nintendo eShop.
Combat, progression, and retro design
The review emphasizes responsive, tightly controlled platforming and combat that nonetheless retains the unforgiving edge of older games.
Enemies respawn when revisiting areas, and boss encounters loom as major challenges at the end of each world.
The experience economy mixes currency, equipment upgrades, and an XP-driven magic gauge: defeating the first major boss grants a mechanic that temporarily transforms foes into platforms, enabling further progression until the meter is refilled through combat.
Paraphrased commentary
The reviewer noted that Aggelos avoids the tedium that can afflict some retro revivals, explaining that routine backtracking often yields small rewards and that contemporary touches—such as elemental weapon advantages and a one-use revival herb—help modernize the formula.
Lipscombe also observed that while the RPG framework functions adequately, it lacks deeper customization beyond weapon and armor choices.
Assessment and final thoughts
Aggelos is presented as a concise, well-crafted indie platformer that captures the spirit of Saturday-morning cartoon adventures without overstaying its welcome.
The review praises its presentation and pacing, and cites the game’s short runtime as the primary drawback for some players.
Overall, the title stands as a strong example of retro-inspired design executed with modern conveniences on Nintendo Switch.
Version Tested: Nintendo Switch.
Review copy provided by PQube.
Final score: 9/10.
