It's been a while since I've last made a list and it's been a while since such an interesting game has been developed. Simply put, Echo: The Oracle's Scroll is a standout title for the Playdate handheld gaming system, capturing the essence of the Metroidvania genre with a retro-inspired twist. In this game, players control a brave adventurer exploring ancient ruins filled with secrets, puzzles, and enemies. The goal is to recover a series of mystical scrolls, guided by the cryptic messages of a mysterious oracle.
What makes Echo unique on the Playdate system is its brilliant use of the console's distinctive crank feature, which is seamlessly integrated into gameplay for puzzle-solving and movement mechanics. The game offers a rich map full of interconnected areas, much like classics of the genre, requiring players to revisit zones as they gain new abilities and unlock previously inaccessible paths.
Visually, Echo leans into the Playdate’s 1-bit display with minimalist yet detailed environments that convey a mysterious, ancient atmosphere. Despite its retro aesthetic, the game feels modern in its design, offering fluid controls, a haunting soundtrack, and carefully crafted challenges that reward exploration and skillful play.
I honestly can't recommend enough to listen with headphones. It really is fantastic what kind of experience the Playdate delivers with this game.
Fans of Metroidvania games will appreciate the rewarding sense of progression and the intricate level design. The game’s replay value is high, thanks to hidden collectibles, optional areas, and clever secrets scattered throughout the world. With its creative mechanics and engaging story, Echo: The Oracle's Scroll has quickly become a must-play for Playdate owners.