MIO: Memories in Orbit

This is an exceptionally beautiful game with a lot of content, so much so that I did not think the game would have as much as it did going in. The environments and music are all so good to hear and watch, and there is clearly a lot of effort put into the storyline and general worldbuilding - which while not mind-blowing was very touching and poetic, and very rarely did I see anything that pulled me out of the immersion of the world. There is also a ton of collectibles and minor upgrades to collect, as well as great major movement upgrades (for the most part) - all things that result in a great Metroidvania experience. Truly, this is a game that all fans of MVs should play, despite all I'm going to say below. I have two major caveats to this positive review, however: 1) The majority of endgame content will rely on you doing some really very intensive platforming. Honestly, I think MIO may be one of the most demanding platforming games I've ever played. I'm fairly certain just to get to the normal ending you need to do at least 2 pretty tricky platforming sections: If you want to go for 100%, you are going to have to do SO - and I really mean SOOOO - many, and they are brutal. I have calluses on my thumb from them! I absolutely recommend for all players using the difficulty adjustment that gives you regen of 1 extra health when you stand still for a long duration - not because 'it's just too hard so you should cheese it', but rather because you will have to redo huge amounts of trial-and-error platforming for hours at a time without it. Some of the platforming gauntlets were really fun - others really weren't. Which brings me onto point 2: 2) This game is unfortunately marred by the fact that it is not very respectful of the player's time. There are huge, meaningless runbacks for bosses, often with mandatory elevators that you must interact with etc. to return to boss fights, very regularly. It's not like they offer any challenge either, they just waste your time. Additionally, every boss will have an intro sequence and you can never skip it. And then in terms of platforming - there are often huge long stretches of platforming without checkpoints (or even places to stand!), and despite the regen upgrade/difficulty adjustment being essentially mandatory to do them, cycle-based hazards don't take that into account, so you have to sit there and wait for another cycle of the hazard once you've regen-ed. It just made me feel miserable man, all that time wasted until I got the right pattern down, with no meaningful shortcuts to cut away at completed sections (there were a few, but not enough). I still highly recommend this game to most players. But beware, ye completionists - this is a mostly fun game to get 100% in, but it only feels that way after you've done it... and it will feel miserable sometimes during the process.

To put it simply this is a master piece. The visuals, the music and the game play are all top notch. The story is something very special for this genre (adventure / metroidvania), it stirs up emotions and make you really care for the characters. Parts of the game require a little bit of patience, but you will definitely get better and the bosses will eventually be beaten. All of the platform challenges can be addressed by practicing. If you still need help there are assist options which will make the game easier.

Es un juego grandioso juego se ve lindo y la jugabilidad se siente increíble, te sientes limitado al inicio pero como no te hace sentir incomodo hace que la progresión se siente muy satisfactoria, lo recomiendo si te gusta la exploración porque una cosa que vi por primera vez en juegos de este estilo es como conecta el mapa este juego y me encanto que la historia que te cuenta es bastante interesante

best aesthetic design ever

(100% spoilers-free review) Beautiful, excellent OST(s), challenging and accessible. Worth playing, worth discovering and praising. The story is unique, the characters are charming... I absolutely loved the platforming sections, the system is well balanced and the lore is both direct and also silent/visual; a perfect formula. You feel very small exploring and fighting in this big game and you matter so much more than what it seems. Go for it if you've both played & loved ICO (atmosphere), Outer Wilds (music and themes) anc Hollow Knight (fighting and platforming).

Very gripping story, solid controls and the art direction and environments will definitely make an impression. It's a bit hefty with the platforming, Hollow Knight (Path of Pain) lovers will feel right at home. Albeit not quite as challenging in every part, it will definitely keep you on your toes. In summary, a VERY well thought out Metroidvania with some of the most intriguing story telling and mechanics I've ever seen. Highly recommended!

Incredible game! Amazing art and music, challenging, but doesnt waste your time (with the right power ups) like silksong does, and really scratches that exploration itch. Also unlike silksong, it has a very interesting story thats easy to follow. Best metroidvania I've ever played to date!