Developed by Fabraz, Slime-San is a quirky, physics-based 2D platformer that sees the player in the role of a cute, tiny slime, as he journeys through the digestive track of a giant worm in search of freedom. Slime-San is unique in that it doesn’t involve combat or collecting power ups; the objective is to avoid any obstacles present in each level, and then find the exit as quickly as possible.
The Nintendo Switch version of Slime-San includes 200 levels (compared to the original, which had 100 levels) for a total of 800 rooms. The game also has partially digested apples that when collected, will unlock new outfits, new play styles, shaders and mini games. Slime-San also includes the following unlockable game modes: NewGame+ (which includes the additional levels), Speed Running, Boss Rush and Local Multiplayer.
Gameplay relies on fast reflexes and twitch-like timing to survive. The first couple of stages are easy to complete, as the player jumps between platforms and slithers up walls by rapidly pressing A button. As the levels progress, they become increasingly difficulty. For example: the later levels contain acid pools, red barriers and a variety of enemies (i.e. blobs, flying slimes, etc) that can hinder Slime-San’s progression.
The biggest challenge is navigating the floating platforms that appear later in the game. Some of these platforms will pass through hazards and walls, and the only way to survive is to either jump over the obstacle in question or cling to a wall if one is close enough. Depending on the level, the player may have to remain on the same platform, and if the player’s timing happens to be off — Slime-San will either fall to the bottom of the level or end up in a pit, where he will die if he doesn’t escape.
Slime-san can also become translucent and pass through green colored walls. This is achieved by pressing and holding the ZL button. When this happens, the player activates a feature called ‘Slow Time’, which is similar to the ‘Bullet Time’ engine used in games like Max Payne. The only issue with this feature is that it can hinder Slime-San’s movement during tight jumps that require pin-point precision. It can also be an issue when certain levels fill up quickly with stomach acid, and contain multiple walls. Slime-San is capable of dashing, though, and this is done by pressing the ZR button. If done properly, the player can jump and then dash to a higher platform before being killed.
Slime-San is not an easy game to beat. Expect to die, and die often during the game’s more challenging levels. And since the controls feel overly sensitive at times, it can be difficult to make some of the game’s more difficult jumps. The player is given no room for error. A single mistake can (and most likely will) kill Slime-San. As disheartening as this may sound, the game is pretty fair at restarting the game from the same level where the player died, instead of sending them back to the beginning of the level. It’s a decent trade off overall.
Graphically, Slime-San is a beautiful game despite its limited color palette. From the chalky appearance of its levels – to the oddly unique sprites and smooth animation – Slime-San manages to maintain a certain degree of quality that adds to its overall appeal. The music – which is a collection of techno-style beats – really enhances the game’s atmosphere. The game’s presentation is rock-solid, and it delivers an entertaining experience.
Slime-San is one of those games that is better enjoyed during a short bus ride or a get-together with the in-laws. It has the right balance of gameplay and replay value that will keep gamers coming back for more, long after they have defeated the game and collected all the in-game trophies.
Mike Pittaro
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Developer: Fabraz
Publisher: Fabraz
ESRB: E (Everyone)
Price: $11.99
Slime-Slan Official Website:
http://slime-san.com/
| Review Score | |
|---|---|
| Graphics |   |
| Slime-San is a beautiful game despite its limited color palette. | |
| Sound | |
| Memorable 8-bit sounding chiptunes enhance the experience. | |
| Gameplay | |
| Slime-San is not an easy game to beat. Expect to die, and die often. | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
| Slime-San is one of those games that is better enjoyed during a short bus ride or a get-together with the in-laws. | |
