VVVVVV

Razor sharp platforming and toe-tapping chiptunes keep you coming back. [Aug 2012, p.80]

As thrilling to complete the first time as the fifth. [July 2012, p.105]

Dexterity, wits, and a cold-blooded attitude, that's what you need to play VVVVVV, the indie platformer of Terry Cavanagh, well-known on the PC and now available on the 3DS. The port works perfectly well, and even though it doesn't make any use of the 3D whatsoever, it's as good as ever.

Got a 3DS? Get VVVVVV. Essential indie gaming, now on the go.

VVVVVV is a spectacular game, and while the 3DS version is a little pricier compared to other available options, it's well worth it if you've never played the game before or want it on the go.

Yes, VVVVVV is challenging and some rooms can have you squirming in frustration as you die over and over again but with nicely positioned checkpoints ensuring you go back in for more, it's hugely addictive.

Take away anyone of its gameplay elements, and VVVVVV will crumble. But, as it is, it's one hell of a game, difficult but not frustrating, innovative but simple.

No doubt about it, VVVVVV is one of the best games out on the 3DS eShop. It is a wonderful reminder that, in an age of super powerful consoles with HD and 3D graphics, old-school 2D games with simple concepts can still deliver some of the most addictive and downright fun entertainment.

Playing with gravity is fun, especially when it's so clean and simple like in the super retro game VVVVVV. The graphics make it feel like an old game from the late 1980's, but at the same time it's so refreshing and fun that it fits perfectly in the year 2012. Respawning is fast and there are many checkpoints, so this game does hardly get very frustrating. We do miss the option to make and share levels though.

An independent game that retains it soul in the 3DS. It is a hard game with a remarkable retro flavour, and an unique and very deep gameplay mechanic thanks to its great level design. Maybe some players won't understand the graphics or won't enjoy dying so many times, but those pure videogame lovers will enjoy VVVVVV a lot.

Punishingly and infuriatingly hard, but also the best retro-inspired platform puzzler for years, and a very successful port to the 3DS.

Switching effortlessly between sadistic punishment and boundless freedom, VVVVVV provides more moment to moment pleasure in its scant two or three hour campaign than most games do at four times the length.

It's one of the more unique games we've seen for 3DS and another fine addition to the handheld's downloadable library. VVVVVV lacks some flash, but more than makes up for this with hardcore play.

It's hard to believe that such a simple concept as flipping gravity can prove to be so enthralling, but given the game's incredibly diverse level designs, it's no wonder it's so difficult to put down.

All that said, VVVVVV is a charming little indie puzzle/platformer that you'd have to completely fail to click with to not get your $8 purchase price worth of entertainment out of. When it's good, it's great. When it's bad, it's merely annoying for fifteen minutes at a stretch rather than desk-poundingly awful.

3D wise, V doesn't really take advantage of the hardware.

As it is, VVVVVV is still a spike-lined, death-packed good time. Its steeper price and wimpy 3D just make it feel like more of a straightforward PC port and less like something truly special for the eShop.