Hoa (2021)

Lovely little journey through a wonderful world.

This is a little puzzle platformer with very simplistic gameplay, no combat or any traps that would kill you, where you traverse an absolutely stunning world while listening to amazing music. Great for relaxing before going to bed. It's pretty short, it took me less than 3h to complete, but it was a very pleasant journey.

On the downside, the framerate is not always perfect, the controls could be a bit more precise and there's a section in the last chapter that is a bit frustrating, also i wish it had a few more chapters, but overall definitely worth your time.

I played on Nintendo Switch. The platforming and puzzles were just OK. But you simply MUST play this game for the visuals and, above all, the MUSIC. Or check out the soundtrack. But seriously, I haven't heard a better scored game in a long time.

Would be a great game for kids 8+, or younger if you're there to supervise and help with the puzzles.

See PeppyPenguin's review below for more detail; I have similar sentiments.

Absolutely took my breath away. The character designs are so fantastical and wonderous, and all of the graphics are breathe taking. The music pulled at my heartstrings, and you play the cutest little fairy hopping around.

The gameplay is quite nice - a simple smooth platformer with some interesting elements added. There are some very relaxing points and some that are a little more frustrating. While it is a puzzle platformer I would say that the puzzles don't require a crazy amount of brainpower. There's a nice progression through the game as you uncover the story and gain abilities.

Story-wise, it's a beautiful sci-fi/fantasy. However, I do have to give caution that while 90% of the game seems cozy and sweet, there is darkness towards the end. I actually enjoyed the depth of the story, but be wary if that's not what you're expecting.

What prevented me from giving this game 5 stars is how short it is. Truly I would rate it a 4.5 if I could - but I lean towards the 4. I really wish there were a few more levels. I completely understand how much work went into this. I can't imagine the time and effort spent on the art, the character designs, making the gameplay as smooth as it was, designing the platform levels, coding, etc... That being said, while I value everything that was wonderful about this game (beauty, smooth gameplay, story, etc...) I also value the level of replayability, or how long I can get enjoyment out of it. While it's stunning, this only took me about 3 hours to complete.

I 100% recommend playing this game through. Whether I recommend buying it, I would say depends on what you value in a game. If you want something short, sweet and stunning that you may want to re-experience in a couple of months or years, then yes, totally make the purchase. Because it is beautiful. If however, you value gameplay more than story and the art of the game itself, I would not recommend the purchase. I think in that aspect you would be disappointed.

Personally, I regret absolutely nothing. This was beautiful, I teared up, and I enjoyed myself.