Players Like...

❤ Seamless Movement and Responsive Controls

Players consistently praise the game's controls and movement as a standout feature. The protagonist, Iko, can run, jump, wall climb, and perform various traversal abilities that feel incredibly smooth and responsive. One player highlights how the sword attack's slight forward lunge contributes to the game's fluid feel, allowing them to "whip Iko around the environments with ease." Reviewers emphasize how the tight, intuitive controls make navigating the levels a joy.

❤ Compelling Metroidvania Progression and Exploration

The game's Metroidvania-style progression and world exploration captivate players. As they unlock new movement abilities, they can backtrack to previously inaccessible areas, uncovering secret paths and hidden secrets. The interconnected floating islands add an extra layer of exploration, as connecting the landmasses changes the map and reveals new areas to discover. One player appreciates how this island-connecting mechanic encourages revisiting locations and rewards their thoroughness in scouring the world.

❤ Customizable Upgrades and Abilities

The game's upgrade system, which allows players to choose between random options when acquiring new abilities, is a divisive but interesting mechanic. Some reviewers enjoy the element of unpredictability and the ability to tailor their playstyle, while others wish the upgrades were more consistently meaningful. Regardless, the sense of progression from gradually acquiring more powerful abilities and customizing the protagonist's loadout is highlighted as a rewarding aspect of the gameplay.

❤ Satisfying Combat and Bosses

While the game is not considered exceptionally difficult, the combat and boss battles are praised for providing a satisfying challenge. The sword-based combat is fluid and responsive, with small invincibility frames during attacks enabling tactical maneuvering. The boss encounters, in particular, are noted for their creative design, requiring players to learn and dodge their patterns. Reviewers describe the game's difficulty curve as well-balanced, starting relatively easy but gradually increasing in complexity as players progress.

❤ Accessible and Relaxed Pacing

Islets is often lauded for its approachable and accessible nature, making it a great entry point for newcomers to the Metroidvania genre. The game's difficulty can be adjusted, and the overall pacing is described as more relaxed and casual compared to more demanding titles in the genre. This allows players to simply enjoy the exploration, traversal, and charming world without becoming overly frustrated. However, experienced Metroidvania fans may find the game a bit on the easier side and wish for a more substantial challenge.