A browser game made in HTML5.
Sokoban and metroidvania are two of my favorite genres. Both involve playful interaction with the environment, and here they are combined perfectly. Instead of placing blocks on buttons to progress, boxes are maneuvered to clear a path to the next region, recontextualized by direction of travel. The terrain mechanic, combined with rolling and sliding blocks is just so playful! But as if that weren't interesting enough, terrain traversal is gradually unlocked in true metroidvania fashion, further recontextualizing several puzzles.
On top of that, the sights and sounds are transportive and relaxing. I'm drawn into exploring the forest, and also soothed as I wrack my brain for the solution to the more challenging puzzles. The easier in-between regions offer a nice rhythm of play, while reinforcing the sense of place and peaceful atmosphere, introducing regional mechanics along the way.
Just like in Super Metroid, I was somewhat sorry to unlock the final movement ability, triumphant though it is, as flight removed the challenge of navigating this world, signaling the end of my adventure. I like to return now and then, when the solutions have faded somewhat.
