My Journey into Metroidvania: A Coffee-Powered Adventure

I always enjoyed games when I was young, but I never really got too hung up on them. My platformer experience was primarily through Mario. However, when I joined the Blackhan team, I knew I had to dive deeper into the world of gaming – it's what we're going to do, after all. So, I embarked on a new gaming journey, starting with "Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight," per a team member's recommendation. I have to admit, I hated it at first, and nothing made sense to me, though I genuinely enjoyed the story and art style. The game is typically completed in 3-4 hours; it took me a whopping 8 hours – you can imagine how that went. I remember drinking a lot of coffee.

Would you believe me if I said I finished the game using the keyboard? Though many suggested that a console would have made it easier. I guess everyone has their own style and the way they are comfortable. Despite the initial awkwardness of using the keyboard for gaming, I slowly adapted to it. There's a certain satisfaction in mastering a control method, even if it's not the traditional choice.

Honestly I never really understood why you can have both a bad and a happy ending in a Metroidvania when it doesn’t have an effect on the story itself. My primary aim was always reaching the end rather than achieving everything. But that's not the point of a Metroidvania; the point is learning the world, exploring it, and growing your character.

Throughout the game, I wanted to give up so many times, but there was an inexplicable force that kept pulling me back into the game. That's what, in my opinion, makes a game truly good. You just want to keep on playing, even if you're far from being a pro gamer. As someone who experiences anxiety even over Pac-Man, I'd say that relaxing and having fun is all that matters at the end of the day.

My journey into the world of Metroidvania games with "Momodora: Reverie Under the Moonlight" was a rollercoaster of emotions and a test of my determination. I went from hating it to forming a connection with the game, its characters, and the fascinating world it offered. I learned to appreciate the intricate art style, the captivating story, and the joys of exploration, even if it meant longer playthroughs.

So, whether you're a seasoned gamer or someone like me, who hasn't delved deep into the gaming world, Metroidvania games have something to offer. They're not just about reaching the end; they're about the journey, the exploration, and the growth. So, pour yourself a cup of coffee, grab your preferred controller (keyboard or console), and immerse yourself in an adventure – you might just find yourself hooked and loving every moment of it.