Lil Gator Game

 Switch
User Score
8.5

Generally favorable reviews- based on 19 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 19
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 19
  3. Negative: 1 out of 19

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  1. FoxyChalet
    Dec 15, 2022
    7
    So, I was reallly looking forward to this game, and I've played it for a few hours, and it feels very similar to three games, the first two are pretty obvious: A Short Hike, and Breath of the Wild, the third less obviously, is Paper Mario: The Origami King. It does not live up to the first two titles, mostly because of poor writing, and the designer's choice that you follow the way theySo, I was reallly looking forward to this game, and I've played it for a few hours, and it feels very similar to three games, the first two are pretty obvious: A Short Hike, and Breath of the Wild, the third less obviously, is Paper Mario: The Origami King. It does not live up to the first two titles, mostly because of poor writing, and the designer's choice that you follow the way they want you to play the game. Let's be clear about this, the writing itself is not the worst, but there is too much of it, and its far too self referential. Less is more when it comes to game writing. And also there is nothing wrong with a game that makes you play a certain way, but it feels odd to be given this sandbox style island playground, and then feel hampered by a feeling of needing to move along a cinematic plot. The two clash, end of story, it's the thing that brings the game down from what would probably be a nine otherwise,.

    The things that made BOTW and A Short Hike good were the freeness and openness of how you could play, which is something that is missing here. Also the charm of the dialogue often comes from it's brevity, which is something sorely lacking in Lil Gator Game. It feels, as is often the case in indie games by newer developers, that they think everything they think of is important enough to put in the game, and so important that you have to listen to it when you play. Basically this game forces you to talk to people, and they say a lot.It should also be noted that the games I am comparing these too are unusually good.

    The other major detractor is, like I said, it's similarity to Origami King, which is kind of a series of interactive cutscenes, interspersed with hitting cardboard things until confetti comes out. There's an emphasis on imagination, but the cardboard cutouts are... just cardboard cutouts. It's cool to have this actual fake zelda world set up, but it would be much better if the characters' pov provided the imagination, and made it more like an actual action/adventure game, where there was some sort of minor... not combat exactly, but something more than just smashing things open. Think of of a Don Quixote video game, fighting giants is more fun that hitting a windmill with a stick.

    All this being said, a lot of care and talent went into this game, the meta-ness, when it doesn't go too far shows an overall love of many good things. I think with tweaking this game could be a 10/10. As in the same assets, the same world, the same sprites, just rearranged a bit differently. All the mechanics are good, and I really like going around the world. I recommend this game overall, mostly because I want to see what the dev will do next if it's successful.    … Expand
  2. luciamelier
    Jan 9, 2023
    7
    This game is nice. I had fun playing it but I must admit that from time to time I felt too much directionless. If you like the idea of playing a game with no big purpose where you simply explore, this is a good choice. For me, it was a little disappointing because it felt like I wasn't playing a game but only killing time.

Awards & Rankings

26
#26 Best Switch Game of 2022
54
#54 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2022

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 16 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 16
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 16
  3. Negative: 0 out of 16
  1. Gamezebo
    Oct 19, 2023
    90
    Lil Gator is a wonderfully refreshing and often very funny adventure we’d recommend everyone to check out.
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  2. Starbit
    Oct 1, 2023
    90
    Lil Gator Game invites the player with its charming presentation and a no-stress and accessible gameplay approach to an adventure game, only to leave its marking with marvelous writing and delightful storytelling that deliver a touching and unforgettable homage to the powers of childhood imagination and friendship. Truly an indispensable gem in the Nintendo Switch catalogue, and a game with a soul that can bond with anyone.
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  3. NintendoWorldReport
    Jul 10, 2023
    80
    This game is primarily geared to a younger audience, but even still if this type of relaxed experience suits you, I hope you accept the invitation to relive your childhood. And to parents introducing their kids to The Legend of Zelda, putting Lil Gator Game on ahead of Breath of the Wild might be a magical thing to see.
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