HYKE: Northern Light(s) Review – A Magical, If Familiar, Retro RPG Adventure on Nintendo Switch

HYKE: Northern Light(s) is the latest indie title to make its debut on the Nintendo Switch via the Nintendo eShop, promising fans a retro-inspired action RPG adventure filled with witches, journeying, and the unique twist of camping.

Developed for those who appreciate top-down dungeon crawling and party-based combat, HYKE offers a visually captivating but somewhat familiar experience for RPG enthusiasts. The game opens against the backdrop of a conflict between humans and witches, introducing players to a high-stakes, one-on-one battle where the odds aren’t in the witch’s favor.

Fast forward to the future, and players control Hyke, a young witch who sets out on a personal journey after losing her family, motivated by a desire to uncover the truth behind her mother’s mysterious fate.

Accompanied by her sleepy friend Riko and a portable radio—an essential tool for communication and guidance—Hyke embarks on an adventure that blends mystery and exploration. Gameplay in HYKE: Northern Light(s) draws inspiration from classic retro RPGs.

Players navigate a variety of environments from a top-down perspective, dodging enemies and tackling them with a mix of melee and magic attacks.

As the game progresses, new spells and abilities enhance combat, adding depth, though the overall mechanics may become repetitive over time.

Each major section concludes with a boss fight, offering increasingly complex battles against uniquely themed witches.

Defeating these bosses has a direct benefit: they join the player’s party, bringing distinct skills that add strategic variety to subsequent encounters. The diversity among the witches is a clear gameplay highlight, as each offers abilities suited for different enemy types.

This dynamic encourages players to experiment with party composition and tactics.

However, some reviewers note that combat precision can be lacking, and extended levels may lead to a sense of monotony despite scattered side quests and challenges peppered throughout. A notable addition is the camping element.

Outside of combat and exploration, players can decorate their campsite, interact with party members, and cook meals for in-game buffs.

Yet, for many, these activities feel largely superfluous, serving more as a visual bonus than a substantive gameplay feature. HYKE: Northern Light(s) offers a polished audiovisual experience, with charming pixel art and an evocative soundtrack that complements its magical setting.

While the narrative and characters provide enough intrigue to keep retro RPG fans engaged, the gameplay loop may not keep them hooked for long after completion.

As one reviewer summarized, “It’s an enjoyable journey, but not one that’s likely to linger.” Scoring 6.5 out of 10, HYKE: Northern Light(s) is a pleasant addition to the Nintendo Switch library for those seeking a nostalgic RPG experience.

While not revolutionary, it serves as a reminder of the enduring appeal of classic dungeon crawlers—complete with a contemporary indie twist.

Nintendo Switch Nintendo eShop Switch Adventure RPG HYKE: Northern Light(s) Nintendo eShop