Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 11 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 11
  2. Negative: 0 out of 11
  1. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Jan 7, 2018
    90
    If you're up for a solid challenge, VVVVVV is the best one money can buy. [Issue #31 – January/February 2018, p. 23M]
  2. Nov 29, 2017
    90
    VVVVVV on the Nintendo Switch is the definitive version of Terry Cavanagh’s classic with an exclusive co-op mode and better performance than the other versions.
  3. 90
    VVVVVV is a fantastic game, and it’s at its console best on Switch. The main mode, while short in length and quite challenging, is excellent and the bonus levels and options add more to the package. The Switch’s addition of a two-player mode fits the scope of the system nicely even if it feels a tiny bit out of place. But really, all the bells and whistles are just gravy because VVVVVV is, still to this day, one of the best platformers in recent memory.
  4. Nov 23, 2017
    85
    Described as a "love letter to 8-bit" this classic platformer is just as brief and lovely as it was when it arrived years back.
  5. Jan 22, 2018
    80
    Nicalis brings one of the toughest and addictive gaming experiences from almost every other format to Nintendo Switch, and the transition is seamless. With dastardly levels of difficulty, a quirky aesthetic, and an absolutely sublime soundtrack that has definitely stood the test of time, the major drawback comes from how short the experience is. Once accustomed to overcoming the challenges faced, there is not much left to do after rescuing everyone. Hopefully, an expanded successor is on the way.
  6. Nov 22, 2017
    80
    VVVVVV feels every bit as fresh on the Switch in 2017 as it did on the 3DS in 2010; if you didn't try it back then you should definitely pick it up now. If you did, now may nevertheless be a good time to revisit. Mutliplayer makes the Switch version even more interesting, and this is a game that still serves up an intense and enjoyable challenge. VVVVVV is a fantastic value and a great addition to the Switch library.
  7. Dec 14, 2017
    75
    Great port with a new game mode for two players and a control scheme that requires more than the original did.
  8. Nov 29, 2017
    70
    The classic indie platformer VVVVVV plays around with what seems to be a simple gravity-inverting mechanic. By evolving on the concept, it creates a platforming experience that, while short, may prove challenging for even the hardened platformer aficionados out there!
  9. Nov 15, 2017
    70
    VVVVVV is a retro-styled platformer packed with difficulty, but the challenge makes you want to continue playing and get the sense of accomplishment for overcoming so many challenges. The game is deceptively simple, which will help draw you in and the closely spaced checkpoints will keep you addicted to keep trying to get to the next one.
  10. Nov 13, 2017
    70
    Eight years after its initial release, VVVVVV is still fun, still challenging, still weird, and still sadly short. There’s nothing new to see here if you’ve already beat the game, but as a cheap, quick pick-up-and-play title, VVVVVV has found a fitting home on the Switch eShop.
  11. Nov 15, 2017
    69
    Although the novelty has unfortunately worn off over the years, VVVVVV is still a fun 2D platformer with a nifty gravity mechanic. In the end, those new to Captain Viridian's adventure might get a kick out of the retro world and innovative albeit frustrating gameplay.
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 27 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 27
  2. Negative: 3 out of 27
  1. Nov 30, 2017
    9
    To V or not to V, that...is the question

    VVVVVV is a 2d puzzle platformer with metroidvania elements, originally released in 2010 by Irish
    To V or not to V, that...is the question

    VVVVVV is a 2d puzzle platformer with metroidvania elements, originally released in 2010 by Irish developer Terry Cavanagh.

    Playing as Captain Viridian, your crew gets separated after a forced evacuation of their space ship. Now in dimension VVVVVV you have to track down the members of your crew. In order to do so you must traverse this colorful yet deadly dimension.

    Setting itself apart from the average platformer, in VVVVVV you are unable to jump. Instead you are able to inverse gravity, allowing you to fall up or down. When originally released on PC this mechanic was mapped to the V key, now on the switch mapped to the Y, B, or A button. This mechanic is pushed to the very limit with new level interactions giving each area’s obstacle a different theme. One having gravity reversing beams, while another creates mazes that you work your way through, giving each new section fresh and challenging game play.

    With challenging being the key word as V is an incredibly tough game. However, there are tons of checkpoints throughout the game so when you die you never have to go too far. Which is one of the worst feelings in a game, when objective D is very hard but you have to keep running through A, B, & C just to die again on D. Having multiple checkpoints removes this annoyance allowing you the freedom to die multiple times when exploring a new puzzle. Which you can only solve by looking at the problem from a totally different angle. These platforming challenges were some of the most rewarding I have played in years. When you go out on a limb trying some crazy stab in the dark, it rewards you wholeheartedly.

    V has a huge map that you explore... unlocking new teleportation hubs along the way to fast travel from section to section. When beginning your travels however you travel through vast sections of the map by falling up and down, sometimes flying three screen lengths until you reach ground again.

    Little touches like this along the game, hark to an era of gaming long forgotten. V feels like a game that was made in 1987 and someone found in an old developers basement. With the graphics feeling like you are playing on an ms dos computer. This feeling is only made more poignant with the fantastic retro game music.

    V is one of the best platformers I have ever played, while initially turned off by the graphics before jumping in, I quickly became a fan. The seeming simplicity soon turns to a vivid orchestra when in the heart of this game, leaving you with questions, frustrations, and a need to pick up that switch and play again. The short yet sweet game will now be one of my top recommends for a new switcher.

    Be sure to watch my video review at YouTube channel TheFlannelFox
    Full Review »
  2. Nov 18, 2017
    9
    VVVVVV remains the same fantastic and simple platformer years later, and the score and my feelings on it have not changed in the years since.VVVVVV remains the same fantastic and simple platformer years later, and the score and my feelings on it have not changed in the years since. Very easy to get into and hard not to become hopelessly addicted, VVVVVV's simple main goal will satisfy most, but those looking for challenges in the form of the trinkets will be more than happy and enjoyably frustrated at the daunting task at one in particular. It keeps coming at you with simple changes in the mechanics making you change your thinking in every new level, and the soundtrack is delightful. Pick it up if you get a chance - it will be worth it for this indie classic. Full Review »
  3. Mar 29, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click full review link to view. It's an old game.
    At first, it's a flash player game,
    There's a switch version.
    I still enjoy it as a warm-up.
    It's simple and difficult.
    The concept is to rescue colleagues using gravitational inversion.
    Full Review »