Recent reviews by Jayextee

We're no strangers to LOVE; as a platformer, you know the rules - and so do I. Although a short game, a wealth of additional objectives provide no small commitment if that's what you're thinking of, and this game delivers it like no other.

Now I've told you how I'm feeling, and hopefully you understood, I shall cease not-so-covertly Rickrolling and get on with the review.

This is an incredibly pared-down platformer with a single unique gimmick; the ability to set one's own checkpoints; which impresses due to its focus and incredible level design. The apparent 13 years the developer has been honing their craft really show here, as the original two games' levels (plus the remastered originals from LOVE 2: KUSO) are present for posterity and completeness - meaning that not only is this a good time, but an incredibly complete package.

I feel it would be remiss of me not to mention the game's amazing aesthetic, too -- this is very much like minimalist graphic design in game form, with often alien-looking landscapes carved out of the chunky pixels and each stage having its mood inferred with a limited palette; and a soundtrack that goes entirely hand-in-hand with the action to the point where I'd consider the game incomplete without it.

Simply put, if you want a no-nonsense platform game to tickle the pleasure centres of your brain with fundamentals instead of gimmicks, LOVE 3's never gonna let you down... <cough>

You Have To Play The Game.

You know why? It's free, but worth so much more than that. Evoking the spirit of old '80s platform games such as Jet Set Willy and StarQuake, but with a more modern flourish that sees it nestle comfortably in any games library that also contains L'Abbaye Des Morts or VVVVVV, also bringing its own ingredients to the mix - of a distinctly MetroidVania flavour.

New items and abilities are earned, allowing access to hithero-impossible paths, with enough tangential extras to tempt players into revisiting this charming game time and time again. Did you find the secret word? How about that 100% completion? What is the deal with the cats?

The icing on this delicious cake is in the form of the beautiful CGA/EGA style graphics and cute minimalist sound. This entire package is more than the sum of its parts, and really a rewarding experience. Gratis.

You Have To Play You Have To Win The Game.