PlayStation 5 Critic Reviews

Nikoderiko: The Magical World looks fantastic, plays brilliantly, and hits all of the right spots.

Nikoderiko: The Magical World is an impressive platformer that blends the logistics and inner workings of classics into a new style that respectfully represents the genre in a fun-loving way. The mellow approach and splendid animation create a welcoming and heartwarming adventure about plundering and bravery that you will want to see through to the end.

Nikoderiko: The Magical World is a reminder that indie games can achieve greatness even without the resources of big studios. With its endearing characters, beautiful visuals, and inventive level design, it offers a well-rounded platforming experience that will appeal to both longtime fans of the genre and newcomers. There are a few rough edges, but overall, the game is brimming with charm, creativity, and a sense of nostalgia that makes it hard to put down. With a few refinements in future updates or installments, this game has the potential to grow into a beloved indie franchise.

Nikoderiko is the perfect amalgamation of everything that makes Platformers great. It does nothing new, but that doesn’t matter because it nails the best elements from the best examples of the genre and puts them together in one satisfying package.

A remarkable platforming game that the whole family can enjoy. Its only "sin" is being too similar to previous titles. It lacks a soul gameplay wise. Even so, it's a solid, beautiful adventure.

Nikoderiko is a true love letter not only to Donkey Kong Country and Crash Bandicoot, but also to the platform genre. By mixing the most varied elements present in these games, we are graced with a game that brings a nostalgic and at the same time current experience. Despite presenting some small problems and a boring unlockable system, the game is fun and capable of putting a smile on the player's face with each reference. A title recommended for all fans of the genre and that will please both more experienced players and newcomers.

Nikoderiko: The Magical World is heavily influenced by Donkey Kong Country and Crash Bandicoot — perhaps to the point where it almost becomes derivative. But although it may wear its influences plainly on its sleeve, it's such a well-crafted new entry in the platforming genre that it's impossible to care too much. Making your way through Nikoderiko's wonderfully designed levels is every bit as joyful as the 90s classics, and if you're a fan of the genre you should consider this a must-play.

Nikoderiko: The Magical World may not reinvent the wheel, but it certainly does enough to stand on its own two feet. Whether the developer’s were counting on the visual similarities between Niko and Crash Bandicoot to generate chatter, I do not know but if that’s the case, I only wish they’d believed in their own vision as this is a lovely, well-rounded game that needn’t rely on imitation. With its inventive mount system and challenging boss fights, Nikoderiko: The Magical World has enough unique gimmicks to hold its own against competitors. If it’s a solid little platforming adventure you’re after, you won’t feel disappointed picking Nikoderiko: The Magical World up.

Nikoderiko: The Magical World offers an excellent Jump&Run experience. You can clearly see the influences of other platforming legends, but the game manages to offer enough personality to become a strong platformer in its own right. We can recommend it to anyone who craves a fun and lighthearted gaming adventure.

Nikoderiko: The Magical World takes a risk that pays off. Playing off the nostalgia of platformers of the past, Nikoderiko is a love letter to the mascot platformer. Clocking in at a little over 8 hours, Nikoderkio is one of the surprise hits of 2024. It is a game that will be loved by players of all ages, and with couch co-op, it should bring fun to friends and family. I hope we get more of Nikoderiko down the road.