Celeste is a game that has captured the hearts of many, and it's easy to see why. Developed by Maddy Makes Games and Extremely OK Games, this precision platformer offers more than just challenging gameplay; it delivers an emotional journey that resonates and inspires. In this Celeste review, we'll explore what makes Celeste one of the best platformers available on platforms like the Nintendo Switch.
At first glance, Celeste greets you with charming pixel art that evokes a sense of nostalgia for classic 2D platformers. The pixelated visuals are not just for show; they serve as a hand-crafted platformer from the creators of TowerFall, another exemplary title from Matt Makes Games. The art style is both lovable and otherworldly, featuring a model of the mountain that changes as you ascend.
The level design is meticulous, each single screen offering its own set of challenges that are satisfying to complete. The game's environments range from icy caves to windy cliffs, all while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic. The pixel-art not only enhances the visual appeal but also complements the game's mechanics and character interactions.
The characters you meet along the way are memorable and add depth to the story. From the quirky old woman who first warns you about climbing the mountain to Theo, a fellow traveller with his own reasons for ascending, each character contributes to Madeline's journey in meaningful ways. The art style makes it easy to empathise with these characters, despite the minimalistic design.
You play as Madeline, a young woman named Madeline who wants to climb Celeste Mountain. But climbing a mountain isn't just a physical endeavour here; it's a metaphor for overcoming anxiety and depression. The game revolves around a girl facing her inner demons, making it easy to empathise with her struggles. Madeline's journey to the top is filled with characters along the way who help Madeline survive her personal battles.
The narrative delves deep into mental health issues, portraying them with sensitivity and care. Madeline meets her darker self, often referred to as "Part of Me," who embodies her fears and self-doubt. This manifestation of her anxiety and depression creates compelling gameplay scenarios and storytelling moments.
The game's dialogue is heartfelt, and the story resonates on a personal level. It's not just about reaching the top of Celeste Mountain; it's about the journey and the personal growth that comes with it. The game also touches on themes of self-acceptance and perseverance, making Celeste's story one that many players find deeply moving.
When it comes to gameplay, Celeste shines brightly. The controls are responsive and precise, essential for a precision platformer that demands accuracy. Madeline can jump, dash, and cling to walls, and these simple mechanics are combined in ingenious ways. The real challenge lies in mastering these moves to navigate the increasingly complex levels.
The game introduces new mechanics and obstacles regularly, keeping the platforming fresh. From wind currents to moving platforms, each new element requires you to adapt. The level design is exceptional, often requiring you to plan your moves carefully. Every death is a lesson, and with instant respawns, the game encourages you to keep trying. The mechanics and character growth are intertwined, making the gameplay deeply satisfying.
One of the standout features is the dash ability. Mastering the dash is crucial, as it allows you to reach distant platforms and avoid hazards. The game cleverly incorporates the dash into puzzles and challenges, making each section a unique test of skill.
An exceptional soundtrack can elevate a game, and Celeste delivers with music composed by Lena Raine. The soundtrack is more than just background noise; it's an integral part of the entire game. The music adapts to the gameplay and Madeline's emotional state, enhancing the overall experience. Whether you're navigating a tranquil section or a tense platforming challenge, the soundtrack sets the perfect mood.
The music not only complements the gameplay but also deepens the narrative. Tracks like "Resurrections" and "Reach for the Summit" are memorable and contribute to the game's emotional impact. Many players find themselves listening to the soundtrack outside of the game, a testament to its quality.
Understanding that not every gamer seeks the same level of challenge, Celeste includes an Assist Mode. This in-game feature allows you to adjust various aspects of the gameplay, such as slowing down time or gaining infinite stamina. The option to skip particularly challenging sections makes Celeste more accessible without diminishing the game's core experience. It's completely optional and designed to help you play this game in a way that suits you best.
The Assist Mode is a thoughtful addition, especially considering the game's themes of mental health. It allows players who might be discouraged by the difficulty to still experience Madeline's journey. The game doesn't penalise you for using it; instead, it encourages you to tailor the experience to your comfort level.
For those who love to explore, Celeste offers a wealth of secrets to find. Collectibles like strawberries are scattered throughout the levels, often in hard-to-reach places that test your platforming skills. While these strawberries are completely optional, collecting them adds an extra layer of challenge and satisfaction.
There are also cassette tapes that unlock B-Sides, which are more challenging versions of the base game levels. The B-Sides and even C-Sides provide hours of gameplay beyond the main story. These levels are designed for players who have mastered the mechanics and are looking for the real challenge that lies beyond the main game.
Unlocking these levels is satisfying to complete, and they significantly extend the rest of the game's replayability. The B-Side levels, in particular, offer a level of difficulty that appeals to speedrunners and those interested in the speed running community. The game's design encourages you to revisit levels via the level select screen to find secrets you may have missed.
Since its release, Celeste has fostered a passionate community. Players share speedruns, fan art, and even custom levels, keeping the game's spirit alive. The developers have embraced this enthusiasm, releasing a free DLC chapter, "Farewell," which adds new story elements and some of the most challenging levels to date.
For fans of Super Meat Boy and other demanding platformers, Celeste offers an experience that is both challenging and rewarding. The game's influence is seen in its community and the speed running community that has grown around it. The option to create and share content ensures that Celeste remains a favourite game for many.
What truly sets Celeste apart is its emotional resonance. The game doesn't shy away from depicting the struggles of depression and anxiety, and it does so with authenticity and care. Madeline's story is one that many players find relatable, making her journey all the more impactful.
The narrative encourages self-reflection and offers a message of hope and perseverance. It's rare for a video game to handle such topics without feeling preachy, but Celeste strikes the perfect balance. By the end of the game, you'll find that you've not only enjoyed a fantastic platformer but also engaged in a meaningful emotional journey.
Players have noted that the game helps them understand and confront their own mental health issues. The way Celeste intertwines gameplay with narrative elements about anxiety and depression is both innovative and touching. It makes the game not just a form of entertainment but also a medium that can resonate and inspire.
If you've played Hades and appreciated its blend of tight mechanics and storytelling, you'll likely find Celeste to be an absolute peak in platforming. While Hades focuses on the roguelike genre, both games excel in weaving narrative with gameplay. Reviews for Celeste often highlight this synergy, much like the acclaim received by Hades.
Fans of TowerFall will recognise the craftsmanship of Matt Makes Games in Celeste. The game's precision and tight controls are reminiscent of TowerFall, but with a deeper narrative focus. Similarly, if Super Meat Boy's challenging levels appealed to you, Celeste offers a difficulty curve that's challenging yet fair.
Celeste is one of the best platformers of recent years, combining challenging gameplay with a heartfelt story. Whether you're playing on the Nintendo Switch or another platform, the game offers a seamless experience. The level select screen allows you to revisit areas and find secrets you may have missed, adding to the game's longevity.
If you've been on the fence about climbing Celeste Mountain, consider this your invitation. The journey to the top is one filled with challenges, but also moments that resonate and inspire. With its exemplary design, lovable characters, and engaging mechanics, Celeste is a game that deserves a place in every gamer's library.
So grab your controller, help Madeline survive her journey, and reach the summit. Celeste is not just a good game; it's an experience that stays with you long after you've touched the ground at the mountain's peak.
