Gestalt: Steam & Cinder

Ultimately, Gestalt: Steam & Cinder is a game that will likely appeal to fans of the genre, especially those who appreciate strong art direction and well-designed worlds. If you can accept that this game is short and far from perfect, chances are you'll love it.

Gestalt: Steam & Cinder pays homage to the games that came before it without falling into a nostalgia trap of repeating the same elements from those it draws inspiration from. Instead it tries to refine them into a new and rewarding experience that while familiar, is not just more of the same.

Gestalt: Steam & Cinder is a gorgeous-looking metroidvania title with smooth controls and a deep story. It’s a bit short to play through, but it is an enjoyable experience.

Gestalt: Steam and Cinder is a rock-solid retro metroidvania that borrows some of the best aspects of its main inspirations.

Gestalt: Steam & Cinder is a charming metroidvania with a unique world that's ultimately undone by its overstuffed and underwhelming storytelling.

Gestalt: Steam & Cinder looks and plays the part of a competent action game. However, its heart lies more in its narrative. While I admire the ambition, Gestalt left me asking, both as a game and as a story, one simple question: “so what?”.