Semblance

In a year with more than a few solid platformers, Semblance still manages to stand out. I love the design, the puzzles are challenging but not mind-breaking, and the controls are tight and easy to pick up. I only wish there was a bit more content here, but I may double dip on the Switch version once I’m far enough removed to forget some of these puzzles.

Semblance is an astoundingly enjoyable puzzle game that never outstays its welcome. It is neither too short nor too long and the progression to the puzzle design is spot on. The final level is a challenge unlike anything else, but somehow captures everything you have learned in your journey so far. The visual style takes the simplicity of games like Limbo, but shows that there is so much more that...

Semblance is a unique platformer whose minimalistic environment is the perfect background to the satisfyingly challenging puzzles that must be solved in order to save the adorable Squish's world. It's relaxing, aesthetically pleasing, and gradually increases its difficulty in a way that is fresh each time and does not get repetitive. While the controls of the game and the maneuvering of Squish can...

Semblance offers an intriguingly fresh take on the age-old 2D platformer. Its story may be all visual and very much open to interpretation, but what it lacks in narrative density it more than makes up for with a generous helping of levels to explore where the platforming itself is a vital part of the puzzle to be solved. While it's lacking in long-term replay value, it’s a definitely worth your ti...

Semblance is a fresh and interesting take on puzzle platformers. Players who like testing their mental fortitude will want to jump right in. Those who struggle and are easily frustrated might have more reason to be cautious though.

In a genre that's flooded with games, it must be difficult to make one that stands out. Thankfully, Semblance's distinct mechanics and eerie yet minimalistic world might just have what it takes.

Bend to your will

The 2D platforming puzzler has been a staple of the gaming world longer then I’ve been alive, and considering that at my age I’ve already run out of new ideas I can’t believe that the genre would have anything new to offer. Run left to right, jump and maybe use an ability, done, I’ve just made a side scroller. Then along comes Semblance and with one tweaked constant in gaming, the solidity and rig...