Balan Wonderworld

 PC
User Score
6.1

Mixed or average reviews- based on 196 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 111 out of 196
  2. Mixed: 5 out of 196
  3. Negative: 80 out of 196

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  1. Shucyc
    Mar 27, 2021
    10
    This game contains some truly unique charm that rarely I see in the today's game.
    I can see the way that the development intent to make when they make this, and I like what they've done here.

    Good job and good game
  2. Qilokor
    Mar 27, 2021
    10
    Surprisingly much, much, much better than what I have initially thought, honestly.
    It's the kind of game that only when you playing determines levels, can you see the cool and amazing stuff hidden in it.
    I'm pretty happy to experience that I've had with this little big game.
  3. Zomyt
    Mar 27, 2021
    10
    Amazing and incredible game.
    This is the kind of game I've waited for many years.
    A good old style platform. Awesome
  4. Piken
    Mar 27, 2021
    10
    Honestly I've found a profound sentiment when I've come to complete this adventure.
    That kind of sentiment that you can experience only when you reach the end of a more important message, from the development to the player.

    Live a life without regrets.
    This is more than enough reason for consider this a sort of a little masterpiece.
  5. Ephuna
    Mar 27, 2021
    10
    What a ride. A luminous and intriguing journey around the normal experience of the people of this game.
    Lovely message with sublime soundtrack.
    Top 10 best platform for me
  6. Arolo
    Mar 31, 2021
    10
    Incredible beautiful platform game!
    An absolute must play for who loves this genre
  7. Kiroph
    Mar 29, 2021
    10
    After having reach the end of this game, I'm finally understand why it is so good.
    Because this game brings emotions to the player.

    And this is really a good quality that rarely we can see in the today's platform games
  8. KrilinPhil
    Mar 28, 2021
    10
    Awesome game
    Don't trust the Haters
    This game it is one of the best platform games ever
  9. Koruvo
    Mar 29, 2021
    10
    This game is simply most original platform of this 2021.

    If you have the will to try the complete game, you will be able to see why this game is so special
  10. Uroxa
    Mar 29, 2021
    10
    I'll suggest to give a real chance to this game.
    Because it's much more entertaining and fun to play than many other games of the same genre.
  11. Ixyom
    Mar 29, 2021
    10
    Easily one of the best platform games of this decade.
    A truly surprising experience.
    Fun to play
  12. HanSol
    Mar 27, 2021
    10
    From the whole list of platform games that I've finish, this is surely one of the best.
    I'm really enjoying every single world of this game, and I'm gladly going to take even a Platinum Trophy for this.

    It's a game that deserves to be experienced
  13. Ichyto
    Mar 28, 2021
    10
    Absolutely amazing game.
    From the first level to the last.
    The best charming platform ever
  14. AceDen
    Mar 28, 2021
    10
    Definitely the most original platform game of the last decade of gaming.
    I've truly glad of the whole experience lived.
  15. Hildens
    Mar 28, 2021
    10
    Best platform game made in this 2021 for sure.
    I'm loving what I've played of this.
    And I suggest anyone to play and buy this awesome game
  16. Heriett
    Mar 29, 2021
    10
    A real classic platform game!
    Definitely a must have for who likes this games
  17. Walkym
    Mar 28, 2021
    10
    I'm really happy to hear how much love this game has received from the people.
    Because it deserves it.

    This game is truly the best surprise of the gen
  18. Avryl
    Mar 28, 2021
    10
    Masterpiece of the platform genre.

    Absolutely recommend it to everyone who loves the platform games
  19. KoolKingKiya
    Mar 28, 2021
    9
    This game is truly magical. i really enjoyed my time playing balan wonderworld. but this game is not without its flaws the one button control is quite questionable and the animations are quite bland. the first level can leave a bad impression but the gameplay really picks up after that. with so many costumes( some might have a similar function) at your disposal you can find different waysThis game is truly magical. i really enjoyed my time playing balan wonderworld. but this game is not without its flaws the one button control is quite questionable and the animations are quite bland. the first level can leave a bad impression but the gameplay really picks up after that. with so many costumes( some might have a similar function) at your disposal you can find different ways to complete the courses and grab collectibles. the boss fights are pretty cool (rather short though and can get a bit confusing). i must commend the visuals and art-style and cg cutscenes and dances they are fantastic in a surreal kind of way. overall a truly splendid game. Well done to Naka-san and square enix. oh yeah i forgot the mini games suck don't waste your time on it
    PS: DO NOT TRUST THE NEGATIVE REVIEWS DONT KNOCK IT TILL YOU TRY IT.    … Expand
  20. Larryor
    Mar 28, 2021
    10
    The most adorable and fun game released this year.
    I appreciate each strange mechanism of this, and Balan is just the best charismatic hero today
  21. JayFromMelee
    Mar 29, 2021
    10
    Balan wonderworld is 100% one of the best games of the year, if not the best, this game is to 2021 what Super mario 64 was to 1996, this game is revolutionary it's really setting a high standard for the platformers to come, the controls are great,The graphics are beautiful and stylish, and the platforming feels better than a 1000 orgasms, Square Enix did a great job with this game, and IBalan wonderworld is 100% one of the best games of the year, if not the best, this game is to 2021 what Super mario 64 was to 1996, this game is revolutionary it's really setting a high standard for the platformers to come, the controls are great,The graphics are beautiful and stylish, and the platforming feels better than a 1000 orgasms, Square Enix did a great job with this game, and I hope to see it as this years GOTY… Expand
  22. Unityx
    Mar 30, 2021
    10
    After that i'I've personally tried this controversial game, I've discovered one of the best platform games of the decade.

    A stunning experience
  23. AtomZone
    Mar 30, 2021
    10
    Splendid and interesting platform game.
    A really surprising platform to discover these days

    Art design 10
    Platform design 10
  24. NotGamesVillage
    Mar 28, 2021
    10
    Balan Wonderworld è un’opera d’arte, un monumentale esempio di game design e storytelling, una testimonianza per le future generazioni della grandezza di un sviluppatore leggendario, Yuji Naka, che ha firmato molti dei più grandi capolavori usciti nel corso degli anni sulle console Sega. Esatto, è proprio così, ed è bene proclamarlo ad alta voce e subito, prima ancora di qualsiasiBalan Wonderworld è un’opera d’arte, un monumentale esempio di game design e storytelling, una testimonianza per le future generazioni della grandezza di un sviluppatore leggendario, Yuji Naka, che ha firmato molti dei più grandi capolavori usciti nel corso degli anni sulle console Sega. Esatto, è proprio così, ed è bene proclamarlo ad alta voce e subito, prima ancora di qualsiasi descrizione e spiegazione, o di qualsivoglia analisi critica, in modo che il giocatore, anche il più distratto o superficiale, sappia immediatamente di fronte a che genere di gemma preziosa egli si trovi davanti, un oggetto che, sempre che non detestiate visceralmente il genere dei Platform con elementi GdR, non può neanche lontanamente essere ignorato, a meno di non volersi perdere il più grande videogioco mai uscito su Next Gen. E attenzione: persino i più feroci hater di Sonic, Mario, Crash o di questa tipologia di videogiochi dovrebbero seriamente considerare di dare una chance a questo episodio della lunga serie di successi di Yuji Naka, poiché molto probabilmente non avranno un’opportunità migliore di scoprire un universo spettacolare e meraviglioso e, in definitiva, convertirsi a Balan.… Expand
  25. Snaksi_XD
    Apr 24, 2021
    9
    When you tell Balan Wonderworld to break a leg. it sprains it's ankle, but honorably still does it's job without breaking the immersion. Despite gaining frowns and grimaces from some in the audience by the end, it still recieves a standing applause by the end, at least from me.
    An awesome platformer oozing 2000s nostalgia, feeling just like a game from that era but with high quality    When you tell Balan Wonderworld to break a leg. it sprains it's ankle, but honorably still does it's job without breaking the immersion. Despite gaining frowns and grimaces from some in the audience by the end, it still recieves a standing applause by the end, at least from me.
    An awesome platformer oozing 2000s nostalgia, feeling just like a game from that era but with high quality visuals. and a story that while simple, still manages to be impactful. (Heavily suggesting you pick up the novel and give it a read!)
    While there are some issues i've had during my 100% playthrough, none of them persist throughout the game like the hitboxes on the projectiles of a few select bosses. Some even have workarounds, although quite unorthodox, like with having to reset a world to try an another go at a perfect Balan's Bout.
    I especially like the amount of strategization the player is challenged with as they're required to choose three from the 81 outfits the game has to offer, each one with their strengths and weaknesses. Every problem can be approached by the player in their own way and having a plan work after evaluating the enemies and environment around you and choosing a costume loadout suitable for them never stops feeling satisfying. (Currently clocking in at 45 hours, all golden statues collected and Hard Mode Stamps on everything but Act 3s)
    After 2020, i think everyone's deserved a hint of positivity in their life. If gaming from 2000s with games like Monsters Inc. Scream Team, Glover, and Chameleon Twist etc. is something you loved, consider giving Balan a shot. If you're a fan of more modern platformers, wait for a prize drop.

    Edit: My review was recently featured in the "What Happened?" episode for the game and despite being only for a moment, i think it's worth pointing out that i really would've preferred if that place was reserved for one of the actual fake 10/10 reviews of the game, especially when mentioned together with and i quote "Most of them in broken english and all of them hilarious".
    It's not very fun to be not only be basically ridiculed for having a different opinion by others in the internet and on top of that have my review featured like this. I actually put effort into putting my acknowledgement of the game's mistakes while still liking it into words.    … Expand
  26. mareepthesheep
    Mar 28, 2021
    10
    just an all around perfect game and the perfect sendoff to Yuji Naka's career
  27. Uwuym
    Mar 31, 2021
    10
    The highest quality version of this wonderful great game.

    Balan Wonderworld is an unique platform game in his same genre.
    It's the most original platform game made in years, and a really colorful and enjoyable platform game.
    Thank to his cool platform design.

    Definitely recommend
  28. hoppimike
    Jan 27, 2022
    9
    It's awesome but Yuji Naka's games always are - it's imaginative, magical, mysterious and has a great artstyle.

    My only real criticism is how the battle music often interrupts the level music.

    If it were me I'd reserve music changes for boss or mini boss battles.
  29. SuperkenGaming
    Apr 5, 2021
    8
    Balan Wonderworld
    Really Fun, Really Underated
    Look, I of all people have the biggest chip on my shoulder when it comes to Balan, Square Enix doesn’t love me and wont send me codes anymore… And even I am baffled at the low metacritic score and IGN calling this game bad… it isn’t.. not even close to a bad game… This is probably one of the weirdest games youll ever play, you chose your    Balan Wonderworld
    Really Fun, Really Underated
    Look, I of all people have the biggest chip on my shoulder when it comes to Balan, Square Enix doesn’t love me and wont send me codes anymore… And even I am baffled at the low metacritic score and IGN calling this game bad… it isn’t.. not even close to a bad game… This is probably one of the weirdest games youll ever play, you chose your haracter in the start and youre basically on the journey to fix the hearts of numerous characters all with their own story of sadness… this ggame will remind you a lot of a Mario game… in each level there are golden statues for you to collect that are required to move onto the next section of the world like a star in a Mario game or any other collectathon.. so the challenge does not come in clearing levels, it comes in hunting these things down… which here lies my biggest issue with balan… its insistence to give you collectables that you cant even reach with that level’s characters… each level youll be finding keys and crystals with different chrcters that will give you new abilities, either an attack, or traversal ability for the majority of the time… some charcters not even being able to jump, so youll be essentially character deck building… you can even bring charactrs from other levels into the next levels.. and Balan runs with this in a really frustrating way… there are so many times youll see a statue out of reach because yo udont have the right character from either a previous section or a future section, an in a game all about collecting as many statues as you can to move on, this can be super annoying…. Back tracking and replaying aa few levels almost feels mandatory.. but I do appreciate the variety here.. each level for the most part felt unique to me and memorable.. . at the end of 2 acts in one chapter you will take on a boss, these bosses are all super easy to beat, but it int about beating them, its about finding 3 different ways to deal damage, as youre rewarded up to 3 statues in the end based on your fighting variety… I do feel as though Balan Wonderworld overstays its welcome, clocking in at about 11 hours… and I am annoyed how luck based certain statue erning activites feel… and the overall lenth of the game also makes balan wonderworld just feel overwhelming as again its about colleting, not completing.. you unlock a new set of levels and it isn’t like man I cant wait to see what they throw at me next.. its more so, great, to unlock the next section of the world I need to find 4 statyues in this many levels before it gets back to only finding 3… and it was a strss that proved to just be too much for me during the final stretch.. A game that started with fun, ended with anxiety and frustration….
    Overall though I guess Balan Wonderworld is a game youre either going to click with or not, I for one don’t understand why o many people think this is a bad game,
    I guess because a bit of the sonic team worked on it and this isn’t a sonic game?
    I don’t know, I enjoyed it.
    I give Balan Wonderworld
    a 7.5/10    … Expand
  30. Sharoy
    Mar 31, 2021
    10
    I think the game is very cute and funny!
    It's sweet as honey!
    Worth every bit of my money. I love the colorful graphics and the cartoony art style as it is a breath of fresh air compared to ugly-gritty "realistic" games like The Dumbest of Us 2 and Call of Duty White Whops Warm Water War. Some people say that this game is tedious but that isn't fair to the game as even after all these    I think the game is very cute and funny!
    It's sweet as honey!
    Worth every bit of my money.
    I love the colorful graphics and the cartoony art style as it is a breath of fresh air compared to ugly-gritty "realistic" games like The Dumbest of Us 2 and Call of Duty White Whops Warm Water War.
    Some people say that this game is tedious but that isn't fair to the game as even after all these years, games like Banjo and Kazooie and Donkey Kong 64 are still treated as masterpieces that are only held back by their graphics which is a blatant lie. So as a grudge, I will put the bar of quality at that point and since this game beats those games in enjoyability and variety, then clearly it's a masterpiece as well.
    The costumes are funny and interesting to use and kind of remind me of Mario's hat system from Mario Odyseey which is nice because it seems not many are trying to compete with, match, or exceed that game.    … Expand
  31. gekatapidoras
    Mar 31, 2021
    10
    Don't understand why people hate it. Yes, it's not a AAA shooter battle royale, but it's a good platformer with various mechanics. Art design kind of Nights, but more weird and colorful but still good. Dances are cool by the way.
  32. PenisPickles69
    Jun 23, 2021
    10
    Balan Wonderworld > The Last Of Us Part 2!

    Balan Wonderworld has everything that TLOU2 doesn't, including the following. 1. Gameplay that is generally fun and full of unique/creative variety that always keeps the game fresh as you progress through it, and is not just a boring walking simulator. 2. Characters that are interesting, charming and naturally likable, and the way they    Balan Wonderworld > The Last Of Us Part 2!

    Balan Wonderworld has everything that TLOU2 doesn't, including the following.

    1. Gameplay that is generally fun and full of unique/creative variety that always keeps the game fresh as you progress through it, and is not just a boring walking simulator.

    2. Characters that are interesting, charming and naturally likable, and the way they tackle serious issues in life gives you a good reason to care about the characters!... In other words they're not just bland generic flesh-robots that you're forced to play as after one of them abruptly murders the beloved main character (without any proper transition/build-up that would've given it an emotional impact that it completely lacks when it happens), nor do they feel incredibly forced and manipulative with little to no actual character development whatsoever with their main appeal being pretty much just SJW bait. The characters in Balan Wonderworld are nothing like that at all.

    3. A decent story that is pretty simple but carefully structured in a way that is easy to follow, and is not an overly complicated incoherent mess that doesn't even know what kind of messages it's trying to convey, nor is it overall insulting to human intelligence to the point where it ultimately pushes you away and makes you never wanna play it ever again, instead of it drawing you in wanting more, which Balan Wonderworld always does! (Unlike TLOU2)    … Expand
  33. Jeffsy33
    Jun 27, 2021
    9
    I'm not even Joking, this game gives me tons of Surprises 1. Brilliant CGI Artstyle 2. The Tims
    3. The One Year in Oven
    4. The Experience of Gameplay
    5. The Amount of Power Ups
    6. The Great Music
    7. Its from Square
    8. The Fanart

    Mostly the hate. which this game doesn't deserve it honestly.
  34. SamuraiArmour
    Dec 5, 2021
    10
    **** MARIO ODYSSEY
    BALAN WONDERLAND IS THE BEST ****ING GAME EVER MADE BETTER THAN KNACK

    verified reviewer
  35. Barrack_obama
    Feb 21, 2023
    10
    a beautiful masterpiece of its time a truly inspirational opening packed with amazing gameplay and perfect secrets nothing holds a candle to it.

Awards & Rankings

37
#37 Most Discussed PC Game of 2021

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
38

Generally unfavorable reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 0 out of 11
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 11
  3. Negative: 8 out of 11
  1. CD-Action
    Nov 19, 2021
    45
    Around the middle of the campaign Balan Wonderworld suddenly gets its act together and becomes almost enjoyable, but the first half is a discouraging display of awful level design and overall ineptitude. [06/2021, p.40]
  2. Het Nieuwsblad
    Apr 22, 2021
    20
    Playing Balan Wonderworld is like looking forward to a virtuous hot shower after a long and hard day of work, only to find that there is only cold water: a big and unfortunate disappointment.
    Read full review
  3. GamesBeat
    Apr 13, 2021
    20
    Balan Wonderworld is a $60 game, but I wouldn’t recommend it for even $10. It oscillates between boring and infuriating. The most fun I had with it was when I got costumes that made it feel almost on par with a mediocre Sega Dreamcast platformer in terms of capabilities. The kindest thing I can say about the game is that it does make for an entertaining livestream. I broadcasted my play on Twitch, and my audience seemed to really enjoy watching me suffer. So I guess this is a great one for all those fans of masochism out there. Let’s call it The Room of video games.
    Read full review
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