The Nintendo brand is no stranger to outstanding platform games and another one has arrived for the Switch. Shu is a charming 2.5D platformer, set in a world ravaged by an apocalyptic storm. Developed by Coatsink and Secret Lunch, Shu first made its way to Steam during October 2016.
Now, PlayStation 4, Switch, and PS Vita owners can also chase the storm. This charming adventure stands out among its rivals with a hand-drawn aesthetic, full of pastel cells and soft lines. It makes for a refreshing change from the blistering assault of primary colors plastered throughout so many indie titles.
Shu takes a fairly traditional approach to level design. In among the Warbler Woods and Vulture Cliffs, a carefully crafted amalgamation of ledges, levers, and blind leaps all combine to create an experience that feels decidedly fresh. Several zones, generally consisting of three levels, are available to explore.
Each of these presents a unique experience and has more than enough environmental variety to keep players engaged. Watching medieval statues crumble or gorgeous stained glass platforms shatter while Shu and company traverse the obstacles in their way is great fun and imbues each zone with a very particular identity.
Rescuing refugees from the oncoming storm grants players an interesting range of additional options. As Shu evacuates these villagers, double jumping, walking on water, and wall jumping produce new ways to get to safety that keep the game engaging but are absolutely necessary to avoid the impending storm.
After tearing through Shu’s village, this entity will not abate easily. While players are busy acclimating to new horizons or getting to grips with a movement skill, the storm will reappear. Depicted by a gaping set of teeth, this purple monstrosity practically swallows the screen. It bears down on Shu, blotting out the light and threatening to devour everything in its path. It is a great opponent for this title. Unable to fight this force of nature means players can only run or die. As one o the most original parts of this title, it forces players to master their movement abilities and continues to build on that great feeling of momentum.
The game has great graphics and lots of variety. You can find it now in the Switch eShop.
