The Messenger

 Switch
User Score
8.4

Generally favorable reviews- based on 234 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 200 out of 234
  2. Mixed: 15 out of 234
  3. Negative: 19 out of 234

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  1. Gnuphilly
    Aug 30, 2018
    10
    The Messenger is one the most entertaining, refreshing and innovative game I have played in a while. It feels like a what a triple A production would have been in the 90s. The mechanics are simple, yet they provide for a very challenging experience when mixed together in such great levels. The story is well written, and much deeper than expected at the beginning. The characters are lovelyThe Messenger is one the most entertaining, refreshing and innovative game I have played in a while. It feels like a what a triple A production would have been in the 90s. The mechanics are simple, yet they provide for a very challenging experience when mixed together in such great levels. The story is well written, and much deeper than expected at the beginning. The characters are lovely and I found myself reading all the optional dialogues, which I never do. The visuals are gorgeous and diverse. Each level has a 8-bit and 16-bit version.

    Sabotage Studio really accomplished something by crafting a real love letter to what we enjoyed about retro games. It stands out in the sea of pale copycats by finding its own modern identity while hitting that nostalgia nerve all the time.

    From a side-scroller to a metroidvania, this game offers a depth that is unexpected. It is very polished and well-paced, offering a 20+ hours experience that is worth every penny. Highly recommended 10/10 - This should make short list for GOTY.    … Expand
  2. WarioJo
    Sep 9, 2018
    10
    Overall, easily the best game i've played for years! Everything's top notch. Can't wait for The Messenger 2 !
  3. vincentincident
    Sep 10, 2018
    10
    This game has to be on everyone's must play list! Hands down this game is the absolute best game you will play in the retro 8 & 16 bit genre. Not since Shovel Knight has a game taken all the aspects we LOVE about old school games and improved them so vastly you didn't even know it was possible, while removing all the aspects that drove us nuts! Must play for sure do NOT skip this one!
  4. Sunshadow87
    May 12, 2020
    9
    Uno de los mejores juegos retro de plataformas/acción con un toque de metroidvania.
    El juego comienza con un planteamiento lineal muy clásico a la vieja escuela, pero llegado a cierto punto, la historia y el gameplay da un giro completo, introduce nuevas mecánicas y abre el mundo completamente.
    El juego tiene un sentido de humor muy gamer, y el gameplay es extremadamente divertido.
  5. Daisuk
    May 26, 2020
    7
    The first part of this game is excellent, a relatively difficult platformer with great mechanics and cool bosses, sprinkled with a bit humour - the second half though ... it's like popping a balloon. The game loses direction, and you need to backtrack by simply doing large parts of the map yet again - which just feels unneccessary. It would be a much better game if it just stayed a pureThe first part of this game is excellent, a relatively difficult platformer with great mechanics and cool bosses, sprinkled with a bit humour - the second half though ... it's like popping a balloon. The game loses direction, and you need to backtrack by simply doing large parts of the map yet again - which just feels unneccessary. It would be a much better game if it just stayed a pure platformer throughout instead of trying to be a metroidvania towards the end, in my opinion. Still worth playing for the first part alone.… Expand
  6. tdub154420
    Sep 5, 2018
    10
    The back tracking can be a little tedious, but I personally didn't mind it as it was a time well used to master all the abilities and upgrades. My biggest problem with the start of the game is there was just too much to the platforming. To cloud step you needed to strike an item and then jump, there was the grappling hook, and then the glide and downward strike and often times you'd needThe back tracking can be a little tedious, but I personally didn't mind it as it was a time well used to master all the abilities and upgrades. My biggest problem with the start of the game is there was just too much to the platforming. To cloud step you needed to strike an item and then jump, there was the grappling hook, and then the glide and downward strike and often times you'd need to string these together in different directions and in a moments notice. Its hard to get used to. But the metroidvania part of the game allows you that time and comfort to truly master your abilities. Once you master these abilities, the game is so incredibly fun to play. The platforming and bosses are just the right difficulty and the controls really are so tight and responsive. This is a very very good game.… Expand
  7. camptownrangers
    Sep 1, 2018
    9
    It's one of those games that starts out fine and just never stops getting cooler. It's unexpectedly funny and witty, lots of attention to detail, main gameplay that's just constantly fun and satisfying. Definitely stands out among the deluge of other retro indie games that this might look similar to at first glance. Highly recommended.
  8. Vcityrocker
    Sep 10, 2018
    10
    It seems like a lot of gamer's are saying their burnt out on the nostalgic 8/16 bit pixel art, that developers are taking the easy way out and copying older classics, but this is far from the truth with The Messenger . Now maybe you didn't grown up on the NES and don't appreciate some of the hardest, well designed, fun to return to time and time again adventures ever! or maybe becauseIt seems like a lot of gamer's are saying their burnt out on the nostalgic 8/16 bit pixel art, that developers are taking the easy way out and copying older classics, but this is far from the truth with The Messenger . Now maybe you didn't grown up on the NES and don't appreciate some of the hardest, well designed, fun to return to time and time again adventures ever! or maybe because there's been a plethora of these games recently, ,that some of these outstanding titles have been over looked and neglected. The Messenger stands on its own, sure some of us will look at it and say Ninja gaiden but once you pick it up the music HITS! and you get into the game play it simple to see this isn't some copycat or wanna be.t his is its own game with fresh solid mechanics, they may take a bit to get down but once you do...man are you a real ninja, Gliding, slashing and cloud stepping through the stages feels so good that i don't think you have to be reminded or know older games to enjoy this side scrolling plat former. the Messenger is so appealing to the eyes, This is art and great art, not simple pixel nostalgia. If you haven't played this gem i wont say much about the second half where a lot of reviews seem to think it loses its steam, but i would have to disagree. At this point your have to back track and explore to find hidden areas on the map and decipher prophecy to do this but in no way does it get boring, just a bit more challenging. I couldn't wait to open a new part of this world, to see it expand and i always felt rewarded when i did. The music in the Messenger was a treat! i don't get music from games stuck in my head all that often but it happens and oh did it with this on. i have actually turn on some of my favorite sections just to hear it the song while i did other things around the house! There is a lot that can be said about this game and has, so clearly my point outside of this The messenger being so good would be don't judge it by its style. this is a game im sure ill enjoy going back to time and time again over the years. Will you carry the scroll?.......... i did and cant wait to do it again.… Expand
  9. jeffbizloc
    Oct 8, 2018
    8
    I beat the Messenger and thought I was done only half way through! It is divided into a linear part and then a more exploring part (though I used a guide mostly here).

    Pros: - The 8 to 16 bit was pretty cool - even if graphically I couldn't always tell - Bosses were well done - Perfect amount of challenge Cons: - If I didn't have a guide I would of repeated sections many, many    I beat the Messenger and thought I was done only half way through! It is divided into a linear part and then a more exploring part (though I used a guide mostly here).

    Pros:
    - The 8 to 16 bit was pretty cool - even if graphically I couldn't always tell
    - Bosses were well done
    - Perfect amount of challenge

    Cons:
    - If I didn't have a guide I would of repeated sections many, many times versus just many times
    - A couple frustrating spots of platforming

    Cons:
    - Really not many, I suppose it was missing something (I don't know what) that would of made it a 10 for me    … Expand
  10. jmart00031
    Sep 2, 2018
    10
    A better Celeste, not as much Super Meat Boy difficulty platforming as Celeste though, with action and amazing music. The game is full of surprises too and probably longer than you think at first.
  11. touchfuzzy
    Sep 9, 2018
    10
    Fantastic game — great controls and platforming, clever story and dialogue, and fun/challenging boss fights that don’t get frustrating. It’s also really funny and clever! The soundtrack is one of the best I’ve ever heard in a retro inspired game. Good length for the price too, around 12-16 hours. Don’t sleep on this The Messenger — not just one of the best indie games of 2018, but one ofFantastic game — great controls and platforming, clever story and dialogue, and fun/challenging boss fights that don’t get frustrating. It’s also really funny and clever! The soundtrack is one of the best I’ve ever heard in a retro inspired game. Good length for the price too, around 12-16 hours. Don’t sleep on this The Messenger — not just one of the best indie games of 2018, but one of the best of 2018, period!… Expand
  12. Rtheom
    Sep 23, 2018
    6
    Unfortunately this game could have been great if they had just worked on the controls a little bit more. The big main mechanic of the game is "cloud stepping" where you can jump again in mid-air after attacking an enemy or object. The problem is that they tried to bog the jump mechanic down with so many other functions that the game often has trouble figuring out what exactly you want toUnfortunately this game could have been great if they had just worked on the controls a little bit more. The big main mechanic of the game is "cloud stepping" where you can jump again in mid-air after attacking an enemy or object. The problem is that they tried to bog the jump mechanic down with so many other functions that the game often has trouble figuring out what exactly you want to do.

    Not only do you have the double-jump after an attack, you can also jump and press jump again to glide, jump and press a button to do a downward attack, jump and press a button to launch a grappling hook and you have wall claws to cling to walls. Because so much is tied to jumping, I often found myself gliding when I didn't want to, clinging to walls at the worst moments and missing critical grapples. Worst of all, there's often a big of lag between your aerial attacks and your ability to jump again, meaning that you've often fallen a fair distance from your target before you get that second jump off.

    Other than that, the enemy designs are meh, mostly just copy pasted from other games, the platforming portions are meh, neither too hard nor really interesting, and as others have said, the "skill tree" is utterly pointless.

    TLDR: This would be a fine game to pick up for $5 or less. It's not worth the full $20.    … Expand
  13. AesopB3EF
    Sep 14, 2018
    10
    I knew I was going to like The Messenger from the moment I watched the trailer. I like ninjas. I like video games. I like video games about ninjas. What I didn’t expect from The Messenger was to be completely enraptured by it, teleporting me back to my childhood where I couldn’t get the game out of my head.

    For a week straight, it seemed like all I could think about was The Messenger.    I knew I was going to like The Messenger from the moment I watched the trailer. I like ninjas. I like video games. I like video games about ninjas. What I didn’t expect from The Messenger was to be completely enraptured by it, teleporting me back to my childhood where I couldn’t get the game out of my head.

    For a week straight, it seemed like all I could think about was The Messenger. When I wasn’t playing, I was wishing I was. If I wasn’t playing, I was listening to the soundtrack. If I wasn’t playing, I was searching for developer interviews, watching twitch streams, or simply just thinking about the world and its characters. With The Messenger, Sabotage Studios has created a modern classic that doesn’t just play immaculately, but engages the player in new and surprising ways that speaks to both the child and adult within you.

    On the surface, The Messenger begins as a fairly standard Ninja Gaiden-inspired platformer. You do sweet front flips and you cut up demons with some of the tightest, most responsive controls anyone can ask for. The story? Deliver a scroll to the top of a mountain on the other side of the land to stop those demons from destroying the last of humankind. However, it doesn’t take long before the game starts standing out on its own by introducing new mechanics and some great writing. If you’re at all interested in what I’ve said so far, I’d just go play the game and stop reading. The Messenger is meant to surprise and catch you off guard and while I’m not going to specifically spoil anything, I do want to dive a little deeper into the game.

    The Messenger really starts to shine by showing its personality and the motto of developer Sabotage Studios, “retro aesthetics with modern game design.” The game looks absolutely gorgeous with some of the best pixel art out there and the music is equally awesome. Playing the game is a dream, but The Messenger also had me looking forward to every new level to see the artwork and hear the next track. Amazing NES aesthetics? Check.

    Beyond the aesthetics, your ninja will evolve as you play with some handy upgrades that push his abilities from rookie ninja to grand master. Exploring the environment will net you time shards that you can use in the shop to purchase a wide range of upgrades from shurikens to new attacks to health upgrades. Each upgrade feels impactful and worth the purchase. Other upgrades come as you progress through the game like the Wingsuit, which lets you slowly glide over chasms or ride gusts of air vertically. Even for someone like me, who explored every nook and cranny and unlocked every upgrade well before the end of the game, I never was bored with the gameplay because mastering both the character and the levels were so much fun.

    And speaking of the shop, The Messenger’s shopkeeper is just as important (and frankly, more memorable) as the main character. The shopkeeper is the game’s main way to give flavor text to the environments, present some backstory, tell stories, and dole out a heaping helping of comedy. He’s my favorite character of the year. Maybe he’s a woman actually? I don’t know. But I love him. Without going into any spoilers, I just will say that the game’s writing is commendable. The game seamlessly walks the line of being philosophical and satirical while never ceasing to be flat-out entertaining. It’s the main reason why I feel like the game pulls off what so few games, or any other media, accomplish: speaking to both the child and the adult within you. Playing the game felt like going back in time, but hearing the story and listening to some things the shopkeeper says really spoke to the man I am today.

    The Messenger is a game that sets out to play with your expectations. Just when it feels like your NES adventure is about to come to a close, the game turns into something new and fresh, giving you a whole new experience to play on top of what was already a solid game. I would love to sit and chat about every aspect about The Messenger but that’s not what this review is meant for. I’ll leave you with this; The Messenger is one of the best games I’ve ever played. Period. And all I want to do is go back to playing it a hundred more times. See ya!    … Expand
  14. Nintendist
    Jun 30, 2022
    0
    this game has a easy going through history with not good content ahead. im so sad about this one
  15. lucinhagamer
    Aug 26, 2022
    0
    this game is very bad with no good gameplay, the lack of content is huge. i hate it
  16. Dacoo
    Sep 5, 2018
    6
    At the core, the mechanics are simple, but really fun. I grew up playing NES and love metroidvanias and 2D action games, so I think I would be the target audience. I was enjoying the game quite a bit until reaching the metroidvania part. I'll keep the issues that weight it down direct and brief.
    1. You might think that the frequency of warp points is a trivial issue, but this causes    At the core, the mechanics are simple, but really fun. I grew up playing NES and love metroidvanias and 2D action games, so I think I would be the target audience. I was enjoying the game quite a bit until reaching the metroidvania part. I'll keep the issues that weight it down direct and brief.
    1. You might think that the frequency of warp points is a trivial issue, but this causes immense frustration may sound like a minor issue. Going back for secrets often means replaying a 5 minute level because there is no faster way to get there.
    2. The game suffers from slowdown in some areas. At it's worst, button presses are not read and the game slows significantly, making it frustrating to play.
    3. The game opens up and let's you explore freely, but the game will only give you one or two objective clues at a time, so going to a different area is entirely pointless.
    4. The music in the NES versions is generally pretty cool. The 16-bit versions are quite atrocious.
    5. The upgrade system is pretty limited. Some skills are must haves, where there are a few that are almost worthless (including one that I'm pretty sure does nothing). You get so much money that you stop caring about it altogether.
    6. It's pretty easy overall. You can breeze through most areas without really trying.    … Expand
  17. Ihatemessanger
    Sep 16, 2018
    0
    All the fun I had with a game was overshadowed by really frustrating final boss fight.
    I do not get why would developers want to torture gamers, at what point did they think that
    meshing b button would be fun as a final challenge. I spent over 20 hours on the game and
    I am stuck at a stupid, pointless point, trying to mesh B button.
  18. VonSeux
    Sep 5, 2018
    4
    I really can't understand this point of the gaming culture where unoriginality, copycats, faux-sequels, and simply poor design gets praised so much. Enough with the nostalgia hype bubble. This game, again, is generic as 100 other games on steam, do programmers make this the sane game-maker tool or something? pfff
  19. Psico32
    Sep 9, 2018
    10
    El juego es demasiado genial, superó por demas las expectativas. El humor es excelente, el gameplay fluido, la musica espectacular, el estilo retro es un detalle muy bueno. Tuvo un par de caidas de FPS pero nada grave, a lo ultimo el tendero pierde un poco de personalidad y al abrir el cofre verde incluso carece de dialogo o felicitacion alguna, es lo unico que no me gustó mucho. Uno deEl juego es demasiado genial, superó por demas las expectativas. El humor es excelente, el gameplay fluido, la musica espectacular, el estilo retro es un detalle muy bueno. Tuvo un par de caidas de FPS pero nada grave, a lo ultimo el tendero pierde un poco de personalidad y al abrir el cofre verde incluso carece de dialogo o felicitacion alguna, es lo unico que no me gustó mucho. Uno de mis indie favoritos, ultra recomendado, genial para rejugar e incluso intentar speedrunning… Expand
  20. LuRoRo
    Aug 31, 2018
    0
    nice game, but this game is not worth for its price! its too expensive which compare to other indie games.
  21. Deckard2
    Apr 13, 2019
    9
    You're a ninja, you've been given a scroll and have a banging soundtrack to kick ass too........lets go save the world.

    I knew limited information about The Messenger before diving in and damn am I glad I took a gamble. This game rocks. From its epic chip tune soundtrack to the simple but effective gameplay 'The Messenger' will keep you hooked until you reach its conclusion and reveal    You're a ninja, you've been given a scroll and have a banging soundtrack to kick ass too........lets go save the world.

    I knew limited information about The Messenger before diving in and damn am I glad I took a gamble. This game rocks. From its epic chip tune soundtrack to the simple but effective gameplay 'The Messenger' will keep you hooked until you reach its conclusion and reveal what the message you are carrying is all about.

    Without giving too much away, which arguably may have already been revealed to you if you have seen any trailers for the game, the game is split into two halves. The first half, a traditional platformer and the latter half a metroidvania. Utilising some clever gameplay mechanics and a dynamically changing soundtrack I couldn't wait to jump back in each time and start kicking ass all over again. The writing is very clever and never afraid to poke fun at itself which made the story that much more enjoyable. Please keep an eye out for the sarcastic shop keeper.

    The one criticism which has been raised in other reviews and I accept it too is that the pace slows a tad at the mid point. Its very easy to fall off the band wagon at this point but I'm very glad I stuck it through.

    An indie gem and a standout title for 2018. Now go and deliver that message.    … Expand
  22. Meeleepit
    Jun 15, 2020
    2
    I tried to like this game but everything from the start feels repetitive.

    The flow of the game is a bit to slow.
  23. DartAnok
    Feb 4, 2020
    10
    One of the best platformer I ever played. On my Nintendo Switch this is one of the best game in my collection.
  24. Gavino
    Jul 4, 2020
    8
    This game is extremely entertained in all ways. At the forefront, of course, is the hilarious writing which deserves all the praise in the world. I was going through the adventure if only to see what new wacky dialogue the Shopkeeper would have in store for me next. Though in reality there was more keeping me engaged than the writing. The graphics and the sound are phenomenal, and the factThis game is extremely entertained in all ways. At the forefront, of course, is the hilarious writing which deserves all the praise in the world. I was going through the adventure if only to see what new wacky dialogue the Shopkeeper would have in store for me next. Though in reality there was more keeping me engaged than the writing. The graphics and the sound are phenomenal, and the fact they had to go through and make two different sets of the whole game is just breathtaking. If there's anywhere the game struggles even a tad it's the end, because it just feels like it ends without any of the problems really having time to be solved, and you don't get to know the final boss much in the first place.… Expand
  25. Alkimesto
    May 30, 2022
    9
    Really fun platformer in Ninja Gaiden style with metroidvania twist. Its have some stupidly hard segments but overall difficulty well balanced, and level design are good. Game is not cheap, but it takes like 16 hours to beat if you try to find all secrets
  26. Zombiemouse
    Jun 1, 2019
    10
    If you own a Switch, and don't own The Messenger, you seriously need to reconsider what you're doing with your life.
  27. drlowdon
    Jan 3, 2020
    8
    The Messenger is an independently developed 2d action-platform title. The game opens with a village of ninjas being attacked by a Demon King, starring defeat in the face a legend known as the "Western Hero" appears. He hands a scroll to one of the surviving ninjas, appointing him as "The Messenger" and telling him to deliver it to the top of a mountain in order to save the last of mankind.The Messenger is an independently developed 2d action-platform title. The game opens with a village of ninjas being attacked by a Demon King, starring defeat in the face a legend known as the "Western Hero" appears. He hands a scroll to one of the surviving ninjas, appointing him as "The Messenger" and telling him to deliver it to the top of a mountain in order to save the last of mankind.

    These 2d indie platformers are ten and penny these days but The Messenger is a cut above the rest. There are a couple of difficulty spikes, but for the most part the learning curve is brilliantly managed (something that can’t always be said about this genre) with new actions and controls being steadily introduced throughout. The level design is excellent throughout, and thanks to the precise controls, offers a good challenge without ever becoming too frustrating. A neat little twist, which I won’t spoil, also helps to mix things up just as the game may have started to become repetitive meaning that at less than £10.00 this is an absolute bargain.    … Expand
  28. DrChocolate
    Apr 23, 2019
    10
    One of the best platformers in the modern era. A game that starts off like Ninja Gaiden and becomes Castlevania through the use of new and clever game mechanics. A real treat for those who want a retro-style game with excellent level design and an innovative ability scale.
  29. guatoman
    Nov 18, 2018
    8
    metroidvania style. very well done, interesting story and gameplay. only flaw is the use of b button to fly, very frustrating. everything else is ok
  30. thryce3
    Oct 12, 2021
    10
    I heard nothing but praise for this game but held off for a really good sale. Finally bit the bullet and I couldn't be happier. One of the reasons I delayed was that I heard it was really hard. A lot of these 8bit throwback type games really try to hit that old-school difficulty. I just don't have the temperament or desire to play and replay punishingly difficult games anymore.I heard nothing but praise for this game but held off for a really good sale. Finally bit the bullet and I couldn't be happier. One of the reasons I delayed was that I heard it was really hard. A lot of these 8bit throwback type games really try to hit that old-school difficulty. I just don't have the temperament or desire to play and replay punishingly difficult games anymore. Thankfully, while it is challenging, it's not overwhelming and the checkpoints are fair. (i just finished the free DLC and it's brutal, but that's another issue). What I had no idea about was just how funny the game is. There's a lot of clever and often hilarious meta-humor.
    Great action and platforming in an entertaining retro package. I can't really think of any major flaws    … Expand
  31. krulemuk
    Sep 5, 2023
    10
    The Messenger is the best indi game I have played so far and easily the best game of 2018.
  32. metachirrup
    Dec 24, 2019
    10
    Probably one of the best indie games every made. It takes a bit of time to build up its core mechanics, which might be boring for some initially, but when you think you know what the game is all about - BOOM another dimension. The story telling is also very funny and memorable. I wasn't a fan of the music initially as I was used to the complexity of the Shovel Knight OST but it's perfectProbably one of the best indie games every made. It takes a bit of time to build up its core mechanics, which might be boring for some initially, but when you think you know what the game is all about - BOOM another dimension. The story telling is also very funny and memorable. I wasn't a fan of the music initially as I was used to the complexity of the Shovel Knight OST but it's perfect match for the gameplay with some outstanding tracks.… Expand
  33. Jax360
    Dec 7, 2018
    9
    the best indie game in 2018.

    Presentation. 8/10
    Graphics TV. 7.5/10
    Graphics Handheld. 8/10
    Music. 9.5/10
    Controls. 10/10
    Fun-factor. 9.5/10
    Score. 9.5/10
  34. Bullish
    Feb 28, 2019
    8
    This game was great, but like its ridiculous story, it just went overboard when there was no need.

    + the in game mechanics are **** fantastic, the ability to jump after landing a hit on anything was pure genius + the music, oh lord is the music solid + the boss fights are a blast - the story was unnecessarily complicated (sky giants? what?) - the little fables got tiresome - my    This game was great, but like its ridiculous story, it just went overboard when there was no need.

    + the in game mechanics are **** fantastic, the ability to jump after landing a hit on anything was pure genius
    + the music, oh lord is the music solid
    + the boss fights are a blast

    - the story was unnecessarily complicated (sky giants? what?)
    - the little fables got tiresome
    - my biggest flaw with the game is that it turned into a Metroid-Mania 1/3 of the way through. The game was literally perfect going left to right, fighting bosses at the end of each level. Then, out of nowhere, all that ends and you have to go searching for small holes. Hated that they did that.    … Expand
  35. jikflet
    Sep 9, 2020
    9
    Amazing game. Beautiful pixel art. the first two hours of the game, I though it was just a fund platformer, but then the game opens into something huge and fantastic . one of the best indie platforms / metroidvanias I've seen.
  36. Drastic_drugs
    Nov 20, 2018
    10
    Fantastic old school game!!! 20/10!!! I hope we'll see Messenger 2 next year!
  37. nusco
    May 20, 2022
    8
    An 8-bit side scroller that takes a few twists and turns before turning into a mixed 8 and 16 bits metroidvania adventure. Yes, it's a weird game.

    CONS: RAW AROUND THE EDGES: From the core mechanics to the levels, some parts of The Messenger are way better than others. That handmade feel is charming in its own way, but it grows old as you keep playing. IT GETS WORSE AS IT GOES:    An 8-bit side scroller that takes a few twists and turns before turning into a mixed 8 and 16 bits metroidvania adventure. Yes, it's a weird game.

    CONS:

    RAW AROUND THE EDGES: From the core mechanics to the levels, some parts of The Messenger are way better than others. That handmade feel is charming in its own way, but it grows old as you keep playing.

    IT GETS WORSE AS IT GOES: The game starts very strong. After the main plot twist, however, it sets on a descending path of disappointing challenges, excessive backtracking, and disappointing bosses. Collecting all the power seals was a particular disappointment for me.

    WILD DIFFICULTY SWINGS: The difficulty is where the "amateur" origin of the game is at its most jarring. The game is never too hard–just quite frustrating at times. Some bosses (including the last ones) are pushovers, and some platforming challenges will leave you wondering what the whole point was. On the other hand, the unrefined mechanics turn some sequences into tedious button mashing marathons that are heavily dependent on sheer luck.

    PROS:

    A HEARTFELT GAME: Even at its rawest, The Messenger still gives you good vibes. It's clearly a labour of love from a small, dedicated team. I had to add one point to my rating just because of The Messenger's sincerity.

    VERY ADDICTIVE: I had a lot of fun with this game for a few hours. Even the last third of the game, that I criticised, couldn't drive me off. I simply couldn't stop playing until the end.

    IT WILL MAKE YOU SMILE: The continuous fourth wall breaking might be cliche, but it does elicit plenty of smiles. The writing is witty and lively, but the game never takes itself seriously–and that attitude makes you feel part of it.    … Expand
  38. capedavenger
    Oct 7, 2018
    10
    Oh I love this game. I never had a console as a kid, so I was always hoping to find a game that I can really dig into. I had a lot of missteps along the way, but Messenger finally delivers for me. It has that retro feel, but yet it's a really well made, contemporary experience. Can't say I've beaten it yet, but I'm on my way!
  39. FluffySpartan
    May 11, 2023
    9
    Really good game! Loved the shopkeeper, fun gameplay and nice Design. Can't wait for a second game.

    Also watch out for their new game sea of stars, demo was good.
  40. pmasterfunk
    Jul 31, 2019
    9
    The Messenger is one of the best games I've played recently. It starts off as a great 8-bit styled platformer, with clear inspiration from the NES Ninja Gaiden series. Thankfully, it's not nearly as difficult (i.e. frustrating) as those games were (oh Ship of Doom...).

    So then... well, SPOILER ALERT the game turns into a great Metroidvania game. And it's a really good one. I mean, on    The Messenger is one of the best games I've played recently. It starts off as a great 8-bit styled platformer, with clear inspiration from the NES Ninja Gaiden series. Thankfully, it's not nearly as difficult (i.e. frustrating) as those games were (oh Ship of Doom...).

    So then... well, SPOILER ALERT the game turns into a great Metroidvania game. And it's a really good one. I mean, on some level, it doesn't really do anything new, but it just does it all so well. I still have a few gripes (I always do), so I'll just mention them in passing during the review.

    The controls are tight, but I wish the floating mechanics were not as easily confused with the double jump mechanic. Although that may have been a deliberate decision for level-design reasons.

    The graphics are great. The boss designs are also awesome, animations are fluid, and the scenery is unbelievable in the "16-bit" version.

    Level design is really good, secrets are just hard enough to find, but not painfully obscure as to be frustrating.

    One thing that deserves mention is the humour. After playing Donut County not long ago, I was doubtful video games could be funny anymore. Well, here comes The Messenger to the rescue. Decent non-toilet humour with good timing, I mean, when's the last time I saw this in a game?

    Also, DLC is free! Picnic Panic is actually pretty good, and I hate DLC.

    All in all, I can't recommend The Messenger enough. It also plays perfectly on Switch, so if you're debating which version to purchase, this is probably as good as any.    … Expand
  41. Bitula
    May 16, 2019
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. If you have fond memories of the early "Ninja Gaiden" games and feel the itch for a fast paced retro platformer. You really can't go wrong with the excellent "The Messenger". Initially playing like any typical 8-bit ninja action platformer "The Messenger" soon jumps between both 8 and 16-bit graphics (and sounds) in a surprisingly seamless and intelligent way. Not only is the gameplay flawless in both feel and flow, the meta humor and graphical gimmicks are perfectly weaved into the storyline in such a way that it never becomes a detriment to the player immersion. "The Messenger" really is a cool, funny and thought provoking ode to the games of yesterday. Still, as expected, there are small things that could have been better. Mostly in the second half of the game. While the shift between genres is fun and interesting "The Messenger" is not that strong of a metroidvania and really the enemy variation could have been slightly greater. But as a whole "The Messenger" is such a unique and entertaining title that deserves all the praise that it gets. Highly recommended!… Expand
  42. denisferro
    Jan 26, 2019
    10
    Jogo simplesmente maravilhoso! Talvez o melhor indie que já joguei...

    Tudo é extremamente bem feito... Jogabilidade, trilha sonora, nível de desafio...

    Mas a história merece uma atenção especial! Ela é ESPETACULAR! Deixa muito jogo AAA comendo poeira...

    Simplesmente jogue, isso é um game de verdade!
  43. draculax420
    Dec 7, 2018
    9
    Watched the trailer for The Messenger and purchased the game soon after. Knew I was in for a good ride and was not disappointed. From the mesmerizing pixel art, to the succulent soundtrack masterpiece and into the seriously challenging but manageable platforming, even some good humor. This game is packed with soul, a must buy and one the best games of 2018.
  44. bl1rt
    Dec 29, 2018
    10
    I was surprised how much the game grew on me. At first, it feels almost too familiar. But the flawless controls, the well-balanced difficulty, the structural change in the middle of the game, and the unexpectedly exceptional storytelling, won me over completely.
  45. fbk2l2q
    Aug 11, 2019
    9
    Wish some SMS/NES/Genesis/SNES games played this well. This is an awesome ninja game, some of the challenges are WTF, but this is a must own for a classic gamer. If you like Ninja Gaiden, Strider, Shinobi and retro platformers this is money well spent.
  46. URmama
    Aug 19, 2019
    10
    One of the best platformers any fan of the genre will play, with hilarious dialogues and unforgettable characters it becomes my 2018 goty.
  47. Hardman80
    Sep 5, 2019
    10
    Amazing game! If you loved Ninja GAIDEN you will love The Messenger. A tribute to retro gaming.
  48. lucianobrantes
    Jul 8, 2020
    10
    Trilha sonora, jogabilidade, enredo... parece um jogo qualquer à primeira vista, mas é um jogo espetacular!!!
  49. Punkydudester
    Nov 15, 2019
    10
    Fantastic game, i absolutely love all of the references to tribute Ninja Gaiden. It's so well done. But the only thing I would change is adding more warp zone spots and if you change controls it Won't change the menu controls also like it does. Other than that i couldn't put it down once I started playing it.
  50. SkyrimSamurai
    Nov 21, 2019
    10
    Amazing game that brings back the fun that games gave you when it was excellent game design that made you keep playing and beating it again and again, like Super Mario Bros. and other indie games like Haunted Halloween 86. Just pure fun from start to finish.
  51. Kasukisan
    Nov 26, 2019
    10
    Probably one of the best games I've ever played.
    If you complete the game you will get it. Trust me.
  52. Hypes11
    Jan 6, 2020
    9
    Great homage to old school 2D platformers without falling into the "me too" category. Very reminiscent of Shovel Knight in terms of how high quality it is done and polished but with a very different art style, gameplay, and personality. I actually found myself reading optional dialogue cuz it's so amusing. Art and Music are great though the main theme gets repetitive fast. There is someGreat homage to old school 2D platformers without falling into the "me too" category. Very reminiscent of Shovel Knight in terms of how high quality it is done and polished but with a very different art style, gameplay, and personality. I actually found myself reading optional dialogue cuz it's so amusing. Art and Music are great though the main theme gets repetitive fast. There is some backtracking though thanks to a twist mechanic it's not entirely rehashing old areas. Reexploring old areas with the Metroid style map isn't perfect as it's hard to tell where certain connecting points between areas meet and there aren't quick travel portals everywhere that would be convenient. Other small complaint is that there isn't much enemy variety and enemies take backseat to spikes and falling hazards.… Expand
  53. GabFire
    Aug 10, 2020
    7
    Não consegui gostar do jogo, achei meio fraco e sem graça nenhuma, fiquei jogando por umas horas e cheguei num ponto que me cansei de tão chatinho que estava.
  54. TheVirtualDude
    Mar 20, 2020
    10
    Recently completed the messenger based on recommendation and it was incredible. For me the difficulty was perfect. The change halfway through the game completely made the game. If it wasn’t for that I think it wouldn’t have been anywhere near as good as it was. Collecting shards was great and the system where they told you how many left in each level was perfect
  55. fanmadeendings
    Aug 14, 2023
    8
    A flawed great game. Emphasis on the flawed. The second half really isn't nearly as fun as the first, despite the gameplay twist being really clever in concept.
  56. Gerdo
    Jun 30, 2020
    9
    Amazing game. Once you "think" it is done a whole new game opens up. The retro combinations are really fun. To have it 100% completed takes time but it is really rewarding. The free DLC is really fun as well.
  57. bhbdwdu
    Jun 10, 2020
    10
    I picked up this game and was immediately hooked.
    Everything about this game is amazing: Gameplay, Soundtrack (best soundtrack i've heard in a long time), Graphics (both of them), Game Mechanics.
    Time Travel, Cloud Stepping, Rope Dart, Wingsuit. Everything about this game makes you feel like a badass. The soundtrack is the best one i've heard in a LONG time, and the fact there are two    I picked up this game and was immediately hooked.
    Everything about this game is amazing: Gameplay, Soundtrack (best soundtrack i've heard in a long time), Graphics (both of them), Game Mechanics.
    Time Travel, Cloud Stepping, Rope Dart, Wingsuit. Everything about this game makes you feel like a badass.
    The soundtrack is the best one i've heard in a LONG time, and the fact there are two versions for each track (8-bit, 16-bit) makes it even better.
    The graphics are amazing. beatiful backgrounds, tilesets and character designs (also two versions for everything).
    And finally: the writing. The writing in this game is brilliant and funny, with each character having a full fleshed-out personality (the shopkeeper is my favorite character).
    This quickly became one of my all-time favorite games and is easily my best game of 2018.
    If you haven't played this game; play it. NOW.    … Expand
  58. churros
    Jul 19, 2020
    8
    + one of the best pixel art i' ve seen
    + one of the best retro soundtracks i've heard
    + tight controls, fluid movement
    + balanced difficulty
    + transition between 8-bit and 16-bit keeps the stages fresh

    Cons:
    - backtracking is not always clear
    - story only makes sense at the end
  59. Ozzy-
    Oct 21, 2022
    9
    This is one of the most entertaining games I've ever played. The narrative is so well written, the shopkeeper is my favorite characters without a doubt, his stories are so good & his humour is very much on point. The overall tone of the game is brilliant. The gameplay is quite simple but very effective. The music is some of the best you'll encounter in a game. The game is mostly linear butThis is one of the most entertaining games I've ever played. The narrative is so well written, the shopkeeper is my favorite characters without a doubt, his stories are so good & his humour is very much on point. The overall tone of the game is brilliant. The gameplay is quite simple but very effective. The music is some of the best you'll encounter in a game. The game is mostly linear but half way through you're sent on a bit of goose chase, had it not been for that, I'd give this game a 10.… Expand
  60. SuperClaudio64
    Mar 27, 2022
    10
    Il miglior gioco che ho finito quest'anno. Buon umorismo, controlli fluidi, ottima musica e buone boss battle. The Messenger è uno dei migliori giochi indie che abbia mai giocato.
  61. ophone
    Jan 30, 2022
    9
    A great little gem this Messenger.
    It offers tight platforming and challenging boss battles, seasoned with the silly or even philosophical stories of the shopkeeper, an NPC who accompanies the messenger on his expedition. Ingenious how the double jump is implemented, you need to hit an enemy or a lantern before executing it, which makes the game more demanding. Another strength of this    A great little gem this Messenger.
    It offers tight platforming and challenging boss battles, seasoned with the silly or even philosophical stories of the shopkeeper, an NPC who accompanies the messenger on his expedition. Ingenious how the double jump is implemented, you need to hit an enemy or a lantern before executing it, which makes the game more demanding. Another strength of this title in the later half is the constant visual and aural change between an 8bit and a 16bit style, all served in marvellous pixel art and an engrossing soundtrack.

    It's only later I noticed this game also has an option to be played in Quebec French, a thing I never encountered before, even not in hockey games.
    Finally I wonder how will be the RPG the same developers are working on.    … Expand
  62. Jojogonpa
    Apr 12, 2021
    10
    Un pure chef d'oeuvre ce jeu! a jouer absolument pour tout fan d'action plateformes style rétro. histoire bien écrites, très drôle, level design aux **** oignon, gameplay trop chanmé, bourée d'originalité, bref un excellent jeu.
  63. Foxylary
    Apr 16, 2022
    5
    Just one of my favorite indie game ! It's like Shinobi but better with a precise gameplay, great humor, cool caracters and a good story. The game is foul of surprise to the beginning at the end and I particulary appreciated hiddings dialogs. I can't wait to play the next game of Sabotage studio !
  64. JoeyPL5
    Nov 16, 2021
    8
    The game is really fun and has an awesome soundtrack but I lost interest when it turned into a Metroidvania (and I love Metroidvanias).
  65. pundy14
    May 26, 2022
    9
    One of my favourite games on Switch. Great platformer with some great humour and story telling thrown in. I found the DLC to be a bit meh, but the main game is incredible. Bit of a challenge at times, but balanced well with upgrades.
  66. GRAFAIAI
    Sep 1, 2022
    0
    this game is not good. you cant have really good fun with this one. it is really bad
  67. Oddlennon
    Sep 14, 2022
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. My god, this is a great game!!!
    I absolutely loved the retro goodness.
    The only reason I gave this an 8 and not a 10….
    I absolutely despise the music note search at the end!!!
    I’ve been looking for hours and only found two. Quite frankly. I’m bored and giving up now.
    Other than that. Great game.    … Expand
  68. DRAGONDRAKE
    Aug 29, 2023
    10
    Adorei jogo muito nostálgico e desafiador, melhor que muitos Tripo A, gostaria de uma sequência porque adorei esse jogo platinei nas 3 plataformas PS5 e Switch
  69. draczyn
    Sep 9, 2023
    10
    This game is a real hidden gem. First i was not interested in it's style and gameplay but as soon as i started playing i got sucked in and couldn't put it down until the credits rolled. It's a masterpiece when it comes to visual style, soundtrack and addictive, hard but very rewarding gameplay. On top of that the writing is just great and full of awesome humor. For me its a must play evenThis game is a real hidden gem. First i was not interested in it's style and gameplay but as soon as i started playing i got sucked in and couldn't put it down until the credits rolled. It's a masterpiece when it comes to visual style, soundtrack and addictive, hard but very rewarding gameplay. On top of that the writing is just great and full of awesome humor. For me its a must play even if you are not a fan of a genre.… Expand

Awards & Rankings

22
#22 Best Switch Game of 2018
25
#25 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2018
25
#25 Most Shared Switch Game of 2018

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
86

Generally favorable reviews - based on 42 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 40 out of 42
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 42
  3. Negative: 0 out of 42
  1. FNintendo
    Nov 26, 2018
    90
    The Messenger pays tribute to gaming classics in a fun, involving and memorable way that will get players to quickly enjoy the experience and get the most of its hilarious plot and marvelous audiovisual environment. This is all reinforced by its in-game transition from an 8 to a 16-bit environment, which might seem a bit confusing at first but will easily be seen as an integral part of the game.
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  2. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Oct 29, 2018
    75
    There's a lot to love and appreciate, but the sum fell short of greatness for me. [Issue #36 – November/December 2018, p. 18]
  3. Gaming Nexus
    Oct 23, 2018
    90
    Packed with clever story surprises and dynamic, richly-constructed gameplay, The Messenger is both a tribute to and affectionate pastiche of 8 and 16-bit game design, storytelling and nostalgia. It belongs in every Switch owner’s eShop library.
    Read full review
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