Skies Above Review: Whale-Riding Action Shines on Nintendo Switch

Skies Above for Nintendo Switch: Soaring with a Flying Whale in Indie Retro Style Indie developers continue to innovate for Nintendo Switch, and Skies Above is no exception.

Released via the Nintendo Switch eShop, Skies Above blends the charm of side-scrolling shooters with the novel twist of riding a colossal flying whale.

Developed by a passionate indie team, this title quickly earned attention for its imaginative premise and retro-inspired presentation. A Unique Premise: Defend, Upgrade, and Survive In Skies Above, players partner with Leviathan, a flying whale seeking to escape a world filled with dangerous airborne orbs.

The game is driven by the player's mission to protect their mammoth companion by leaping between orbs, neutralizing threats before they can damage the whale.

When commenting on this engaging gameplay loop, the development team noted that the player becomes both protector and passenger: the journey is about keeping the whale airborne while using themselves as a weapon to clear the sky.

"From the start, you’re introduced to Leviathan’s plight, setting the stage for a unique aerial adventure," they shared through official channels. Gameplay Mechanics: Fluid Controls and Satisfying Challenge Skies Above embraces a side-scrolling format, but instead of arming players with typical shooter weapons, it tasks them to jump between enemy orbs using precise timing and direction with the joystick.

With every well-aimed leap, players destroy hazards and accumulate points.

The controls are streamlined, focusing on using the left joystick to aim and propel the character through the air, targeting orbs for maximum efficiency.

Miss a jump and gravity does its job, returning the hero to the ground—only to have Leviathan fetch them back for another attempt. Visuals and Audio: Nostalgic Without Excess Borrowing from 16-bit era aesthetics, Skies Above delivers visuals that invoke nostalgia while remaining smooth and accessible.

The retro graphics pay homage to classics without falling into overwrought pixelation.

Developers highlighted the importance of a balanced soundscape, emphasizing how the soundtrack and effects keep players engaged while allowing them to maintain focus on the action. Progression and Replayability Points accrued during play are more than just a score—they serve as currency for upgrades, such as enhancing Leviathan’s health or boosting the points earned per action.

The game incentivizes repeated play and skill improvement, as maintaining the whale’s health is crucial.

Each failed attempt is not just a setback, but an opportunity to further upgrade and challenge oneself to achieve higher scores. Conclusion: A Distinct Experience on Nintendo Switch With its distinct premise, responsive controls, and a healthy dose of retro flair, Skies Above delivers a unique diversion for the Nintendo Switch audience.

Few games offer the whimsical thrill of surfing the skies on a flying whale, and this indie title embraces that originality.

Whether you’re on a quest for nostalgia or a fresh indie challenge, Skies Above makes a compelling case for a spot in your Switch library.

Whatever you do, remember: protect your friend—and, as the game’s humor hints, don’t panic. Skies Above is available now on Nintendo Switch via the eShop.

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