Koira

Everything about Koira left me with a smile on my face, from its cute environmental storytelling to its thoughtful, emotive adventure. It’s such a beautiful journey, one that tells important lessons for those willing to find them but otherwise explores how important it can be to have someone by your side. I wanted to protect that dog at all costs, so every moment that came across when they were in danger drove me to find the right solution as quickly as possible. Way to make me feel for a 2D character, Studio Tolima.

Koira is a magical adventure that I adored from beginning to end. While the game’s bugs did detract somewhat from the overall experience, if you’re looking for a cozy experience that you can beat within a few hours, then this is the game for you. If you need more convincing, you can also pet the dog, which is always a plus. I can’t wait to see what other games Studio Tolima has planned because this is a fantastic start.

Koira is beautiful, with its exploration of hope and the harsh world around us. Its mystical setting and its focus on music as the gateway to harmony and peace is a pleasant package for a cozy night in. It doesn’t bend the genre but it doesn’t need to, with how it makes these very real issues more accessible to a younger audience with its simplistic gameplay and whimsical moments. I’ll never stop loving this little genre of indie games, with its big heart and aim to say something meaningful.

Koira is very clear about its goal of delivering a touching story without worrying about complexity or challenging puzzles. It no doubt delivers that beautifully, but there are still some annoying issues, like the chapter selection, that could be fixed to make it more polished.

Koira wins over with its charming visuals, sensitive soundtrack and the affectionate relationship between the protagonist and his dog, delivering an emotionally warm experience. However, its short length, simplistic puzzles and empty areas compromise immersion and engagement. The lack of a platinum trophy also reduces the incentive to fully explore. In addition, the presence of a possible bug that directly affects the experience may prevent players from seeing the outcome of the journey.