Arkedo Series - 03 Pixel!

Pixel might be exactly what it sounds like. The dotted cat is back after being first introduced in Pix’n Love Rush and also has the honors of closing the Arkedo series trilogy, with a fun platformer with a twist. In the trademark, modern pixel art style, the game offers the same pseudo black and white dotted universe and simple bit tunes. In a select amount of levels, our feline friend jumps and roars his way towards the exit and will have to overcome many pitfalls and enemies along the way.

As this is a simple mini-game there aren’t a lot of mechanics, other than simply running and jumping and all platform elements that come with that. Moving platforms will need to be calculated and many enemies block the path to freedom. Luckily, Pixel can jump on their simply presented heads and after 5 successful kills, the cat can let out a mighty meow of mass destruction. Additionally, there’s also a sleuthing button that shows a magnifying glass on the screen, which can scope around for interactive areas. These unlock a small mini-game that requires racing towards the exit through a maze before the time runs out. Unlocking the areas can either yield energy, useless relics for collection or alter the game area with things such as a snow machine, turning all water into ice. This in particular is a great little twist that gives extra spice to the platform element.

It isn’t all good though, as again the series continues with cheap replayability options, such as useless relics. At least the game is humorous and upfront about it, but it still doesn’t add up in the end. But the largest issue is the skating controls, which are just a tad too finicky to exert proper control at all times. Especially in the hardest jumps later in the game, this will frustrate to no end, just to get one jump further. And since there are only a very select few amount of checkpoints per level, trial and error will reach classic proportions.

The sleuthing maze mini-game. Don't bump the sides; it's annoying.

Still, as a small title, Pixel completes the row of solid games brought to us by Sanuk Games and Arkedo Studios, despite control issues. A fun little platform with good humor and a great additional layer is all that this game needs to be successful. The classic bit vibe is just the icing on the cake, so get out the modern Atari and have a go.

Gallery + wallpaper

Daav Valentaten, NoobFeed. (@Daavpuke)