After sinking enough hours into gaming, you reach a point where certain instincts just kick in. It’s odd, but within ten minutes of playing a game, I often know if it’s going to be my cup of tea. This isn’t about sticking to my usual genre—it’s more of a gut reaction. I’ve enjoyed plenty of games outside my comfort zone simply because they felt right from the get-go. This is precisely why I believe you don’t need to finish a game to deliver a fair review. Most game loops are predictable, meaning if you don’t enjoy the first hour, chances are the next five won’t be any different. I mention this because I’ve been diving into Cryptical Path on PC, and by the time the tutorial wrapped up, I was completely sold. I’ll unpack why I’m so smitten as we go along, but suffice it to say, this game could well be my top pick for 2025—and the year’s only just begun.
In Cryptical Path, you embody The Architect, summoned to The Hexium, a prison under your command that’s spiraled out of control. A doppelganger has seized power, not only declaring itself the new master but also showing great disdain for your arrival. To make matters worse, it has released the prisoners and transformed them. To restore order and prevent complete pandemonium, you’ll need to wield all your powers. Adding to the challenge, this doppelganger is roaming around with abilities that feel uncomfortably familiar.
What sets Cryptical Path apart in the roguelite genre is its unique concept. Forget about following a pre-set map; here, you’re crafting one as you progress. You, as The Architect, construct The Hexium and direct its operations. Each room, along with its occupants, is your creation. However, there’s a catch: you’re in charge, but not entirety—thanks to The Doppelganger’s antics. You have control, but not total control, which is unnerving, especially on your home turf.
As you venture further in Cryptical Path, it’s clear that not everything aligns with your plans. Constructing rooms is essential but costly. Your power has its limits, marked by control points each room requires. If you fall short, you incur a curse, starting as minor nuisances but quickly escalating if unchecked. Strategy is definitely your friend here.
Cryptical Path might strike as another platform-based roguelite, but it shines due to its distinct charm. The game’s design and mechanics are compelling enough, but it is the style that truly captivates. It’s evident that this title was crafted with immense care and passion, making it impossible not to adore it.
The game whisks you into a world reminiscent of 90s cartoons in the most delightful way. It’s like experiencing an Adult Swim show transformed into a video game. It strikes the perfect balance of maturity and excitement to keep longtime gamers engaged while also enchanting younger audiences. Honestly, if this turned up as a new series on TV tomorrow, I’d binge-watch every episode. It’s well-written, bursting with intriguing characters, and oozing fun.
One aspect to highlight about Cryptical Path is the controls. While many PC games suggest a controller for ease, in this instance, I strongly recommend it. I’ve tried it both ways, and you’ll likely be more precise with a controller. This doesn’t mean mouse and keyboard aren’t viable, but they certainly aren’t optimal. This isn’t a significant drawback—just a heads-up.
I can’t recall the last review where finding criticisms was this tough. When it comes to Cryptical Path, I’m genuinely struggling to find any flaws. If platformers or roguelites are your jam, you owe it to yourself to download this game. While it might not reinvent the wheel mechanically, it’s a stellar showcase of developers doing their craft justice.
In conclusion, there’s nothing negative left to say, so I’ll wrap it up here. Cryptical Path deserves a swift console release as I foresee it making waves among PS4, Xbox, and Switch communities. The Architect has quickly become a favorite character of mine, and I hope this marks the start of a franchise we’ll cherish for years to come. Hats off to a remarkable job!
Hexiyummy!
- Look and Feel: 10/10
- Controls and UI: 10/10
- Story: 10/10
- Replayability: 10/10
Cryptical Path is an indispensable experience for fans of roguelites and platformers alike. It’s rare to connect so intensely with characters that you eagerly anticipate more. It’s a game I’m sure to revisit often, and one I wholeheartedly champion to others. An exceptional creation all around!
