Haiku, the Robot

 Switch
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 5 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 5
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 5
  3. Negative: 0 out of 5
  1. Switch Player
    Oct 7, 2022
    90
    All in all, Haiku, the Robot is a truly delightful experience that doesn’t come around that often. The Metroidvania formula is utilised in the best possible way. Anyone, not just fans of the genre, should pick this one up. It’s well worth spending your hard-earned spare parts on.
  2. KeenGamer
    Oct 3, 2022
    85
    Haiku, the robot might just be one of the best options for first-time Metroidvania players. It is intuitive, has a decent story that will leave you asking for more, and has great, simple but entertaining gameplay. You will definitely feel like a random robot trying to save their homeland from a random virus, and Arcadia will probably care enough to search in every damn corner for every last collectible. Yet, it probably won't be in your best game ever ranking.
  3. Finger Guns
    Aug 25, 2023
    80
    Haiku, the Robot is an exceptional debut and a wonderful Metroidvania. The content updates and overall gameplay improvements over time have only bolstered the game’s overall package, making it the best time to play. General combat isn’t compelling and the introspective story can get lost, but the exploration and accessibility make the game special.
  5. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Dec 22, 2022
    80
    Haiku, the Robot is a fantastic take on a crowded genre. It's fast, challenging, charming and almost always fun to explore. It's not perfect, but it's earned its place among the greats in its class. [Issue #63 – January/February 2023, p. 21]
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  6. NintendoWorldReport
    Sep 9, 2022
    70
    The openness of Haiku is both its strength and its weakness, and some who get drawn in by its Metroidvania trappings and retro look will be let down by the lack of direction provided. Those who don't mind experimenting and backtracking will find a more satisfying experience, but about halfway through I felt like I had already had my fill. Aesthetically, the clean presentation is an asset, but the soundtrack lacks punch and variety. Ultimately, even though Haiku, The Robot does play well, it can be tedious more often than it is compelling.

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 6 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4 out of 6
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 6
  3. Negative: 0 out of 6
  1. justinsnow
    Jan 18, 2023
    8
    Excellent metroidvania, the combat is super smooth, it looks great, highly recommended.
  2. Key19
    Nov 16, 2022
    9
    If you are a Hollow Knight fan, you very likely will also be a fan of Haiku, the Robot. It is fun in many of the same ways that Hollow KnightIf you are a Hollow Knight fan, you very likely will also be a fan of Haiku, the Robot. It is fun in many of the same ways that Hollow Knight is fun. The main difference to take into consideration is that this game is not on the same level in terms of difficulty. Some Hollow Knight fans will be put off by that difference. To me, I thought Haiku, the Robot landed in a nice spot in this aspect. Not so easy that it felt mindless, but not so hard that it caused frustration.

    Strengths:
    -Diverse world that has very distinct biomes which are enjoyable to explore and experience
    -Controls are spot on, movement feels great and natural
    -Charming character and enemy designs
    -Has the polish of a talented person's passion project (which it is)
    -Fun!

    Weaknesses:
    -Fast travel system would benefit from a couple more stations
    -Customizable player attributes suffer from questionable balancing and some filler that offer minimal utility

    Your mileage may vary:
    -Combat is simple (I enjoyed)
    -Music is VERY ambient (I didn't enjoy)
    -Noticably easier than its influences (I enjoyed)    … Full Review »
  3. amospalla
    Oct 31, 2022
    9
    Good game, completely (art, mechanics, enemies, environment) inspired by hollow knight.

    If you enjoyed the exploration aspect of HK this    Good game, completely (art, mechanics, enemies, environment) inspired by hollow knight.

    If you enjoyed the exploration aspect of HK this game is an easy pick. Don't expect it to be the same, but just the younger naive brother.    … Full Review »
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