Candleman

 Xbox One
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 10 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 13
  3. Negative: 0 out of 13
  1. Generación Xbox
    Dec 19, 2017
    70
    Despite being short, it will undoubtedly delight platform genre lovers.
  2. Metro GameCentral
    Feb 8, 2017
    70
    It’s not the fact that you’re controlling a perambulatory candle that’s the oddest thing about this game, but that its story is so oddly affecting despite its absurdity.
  3. Destructoid
    Feb 1, 2017
    70
    That's the unpredictable allure to Candleman. Its obvious hook is in its unique mechanic, but that's not enough to carry it to the conclusion. Then, there's a Rudy-like emotional investment that takes over when everything stops revolving around gameplay. Fittingly, Candleman burns out prematurely. But, that doesn't mean that it stops shining.

Awards & Rankings

63
#63 Best Xbox One Game of 2017
95
#95 Most Discussed Xbox One Game of 2017
46
#46 Most Shared Xbox One Game of 2017

User Reviews

All reviews »
User Score
7.1

Mixed or average reviews- based on 33 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 23 out of 33
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 33
  3. Negative: 8 out of 33
  1. iceman42812
    Feb 3, 2017
    9
    Candleman walks the fine line between an indie game that serves up tight core gameplay but varies it up enough with an interesting story andCandleman walks the fine line between an indie game that serves up tight core gameplay but varies it up enough with an interesting story and character development that makes me feel like I'm getting something out of playing. The concept is simple, really - control a sentient candle and maneuver your way in the dark through difficult platforming and good timing. Here's the catch - for each of the 36 levels in the game, you only have 10 seconds of candle light to use before you die.

    Overall, I think it's an interesting game that's thought provoking and beautifully created. I took away a point because some of the levels can be difficult to survive, but that might just be my error. At $15, it was a solid purchase for me.    … Full Review »
  2. nibblo
    Feb 12, 2017
    8
    There is a great little game. The basic mechanics are that you can light your own wick and you can jump - that's it. The beauty is really inThere is a great little game. The basic mechanics are that you can light your own wick and you can jump - that's it. The beauty is really in the level design which is superb. Each level starts in darkness and you have 10 seconds worth of candle wick to light, this means you have to think very carefully about when you can light your candle to see where you are going as you will have to light it so you don't fall to your death or step on something lethal.
    Each level will have a number of dead candles strategically positioned that you can light to help you see where you are going and when you die and replay levels they will be there to help you through tough spots. The levels themselves are the stars as there are various mechanics which make the journey tougher and easier. In some levels there are light sensitive plants which can help you across water or fall on you and crush you or lilies that you can stand on but get devoured by whirlpools and each set of levels have unique themes and puzzles.
    I was really impressed by how the level design worked with such limited movement and functionality, i was never bored and always wanted to see what happened next which was helped by the almost Disney like backgrounds and animations. Having a little candle helped too as you got invested in his journey and wanted him to succeed.
    I will be following this dev as this is his first game and it shows such polish and imagination. Great value for money and it will stick in your memory.
    Highly recommended!    … Full Review »
  3. rygar666
    Feb 6, 2017
    6
    This game is cute, but far too short and simplistic. The camera and controls just don't feel polished. Frame rate drops also are a realThis game is cute, but far too short and simplistic. The camera and controls just don't feel polished. Frame rate drops also are a real annoyance. Maybe when it goes on sale people can take a chance on it and pick it up… Full Review »
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