Games That Really Schmeck is a series of first impression game review articles that highlight games that really stand out to me and that I thoroughly enjoy. It takes a lot to get me to write an article so trust that these games are worth reading about and playing.
Schmeck:
a verb that means to taste good.
a verb meaning something ”fits” or “works” for someone, similar to “it suits me” or “I like it”.
Developer: Jake Macher (@jakemacher.bsky.social)
Platform: Gameboy Color
Release Date: TBA (Demo Available)
As someone who has long admired the nostalgic charm of classic Game Boy Color titles, the introduction scene of Sofia the Witch immediately brought to mind the magic of the Zelda Oracle games. From the very beginning, that beautiful top-down sprite work and the subsequent delightful transition to a platformer paired with an upbeat, bouncy tune captured my attention and didn't let go.
The game boasts the "solid" feel of a retail title, with tutorials and a pause screen designed like a spellbook—a charming touch that sets the stage for the whimsical adventure ahead. The music, reminiscent of Jake Kaufman’s vibrant compositions, truly stands out, adding an extra layer of joy to the experience. Within Sofia's cozy house, you can even pet the cat or explore various fun activities that I won't spoil here—there's even a hidden fishing game in the demo—and everything I've mentioned so far was before even stepping into level 1-1!
The game's first tutorial, completed within a single building, ensures players are well-prepared without overstaying its welcome. The presence of a map screen (yay I love map screens!!) evokes memories of Mario Land 2 and Zelda: Link's Awakening, blending elements from both to create something uniquely its own. Once you start playing, you’ll find the platforming solid and full of charming surprises, like jumpy mushrooms and adorable animal transformations.
The animation and sprite work are not just gorgeous but also incredibly adorable, creating a world that's fun to explore. The game's levels and graphical presentation feel reminiscent of WayForward's high-quality designs, each packed with little secrets and delightful touches that made me want to uncover every hidden area.
The soundtrack deserves a special mention as well—it’s always engaging; I found myself bouncing along with the rhythm, couldn't stop, and didn't want to. One of the earlier levels finds you in a cave and the music there, while moodier, still keeps you grooving, and the stunning cave animations with waterfalls and other details were special treats for my eyes. The bubble mechanic adds a fun element, allowing players to discover new hidden areas by bouncing around.
Finding your friends and turning them back into cute little critters is an absolute blast, adding a layer of emotional investment to the gameplay. The level of solid development and polish elevates Sofia the Witch to new heights, making it a truly enchanting game. Plus, the ability to teleport home to save your progress is a fantastic quality-of-life feature that players will appreciate.
In conclusion, Sofia the Witch is a magical journey that rewards players with endless fun and charming surprises, making it a must-play for fans of classic platformers and whimsical adventures alike.
Sofia the Witch: Curse of the Monster Moon is certainly a Game that Really Schmecks!
An article by Adam Holmes
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