PGC NEWS

The world of video games is vast and diverse, catering to a wide spectrum of tastes. From adrenaline-pumping action titles to thought-provoking strategy games, there’s a niche for everyone. Among these genres, puzzle games hold a special place, offering a unique brand of challenge and satisfaction. She Remembered Caterpillars, developed by Jumpsuit Entertainment, is a prime example of this genre, offering a captivating puzzle experience that has garnered praise since its Steam release in 2017. Now available on the Nintendo Switch, the game brings its unique charm to a new audience. But does it hold up on this new platform? Let’s dive in and find out.

A Brain-Twisting Puzzle Experience

She Remembered Caterpillars is a pure point-and-click puzzle game. In a market saturated with puzzle games that incorporate action, RPG elements, or platforming, She Remembered Caterpillars stays true to its roots. This dedication to classic puzzle mechanics is refreshing in today’s gaming landscape.

The gameplay is simple to grasp. Players guide colorful sprites to their designated destinations (white flowers). The catch? Sprites can only cross bridges (represented by caterpillars) that match their color. This seemingly simple rule forms the basis of a surprisingly complex puzzle system.

She Remembered Caterpillars

She Remembered Caterpillars

The game’s difficulty ramps up gradually. New mechanics are introduced, such as bridges with unique colors (like purple), requiring players to combine red and blue sprites to cross. Later levels feature colored gates that only allow sprites of different colors to pass. These seemingly small additions create intricate puzzles that demand careful planning and outside-the-box thinking.

A Visually Stunning Abstract World

Unlike action or RPG games, puzzle games often rely on visuals to convey emotion and create atmosphere. She Remembered Caterpillars excels in this area, showcasing a unique hand-drawn art style with a distinct abstract flair.

She Remembered Caterpillars

The game’s muted color palette, predominantly featuring dark tones, evokes a sense of tranquility. It feels like a quiet night under a starlit sky, listening to a bedtime story. This serene atmosphere perfectly complements the contemplative nature of puzzle-solving.

Against this subdued backdrop, the vibrantly colored sprites and caterpillar bridges stand out. This bold use of contrasting colors creates a visually striking experience, adding to the game’s overall charm.

She Remembered Caterpillars

Shortcomings That Hold the Game Back

Despite its strengths, She Remembered Caterpillars suffers from a few notable flaws. The most prominent issue is the game’s short length. With only around 40 levels, clocking in at about 5-6 hours of playtime, it feels somewhat lacking, especially considering the lack of planned DLC.

She Remembered Caterpillars

Another drawback is the lack of in-game hints. While the initial tutorial covers the basic controls, the game offers no assistance for later puzzles, which can become quite challenging. A hint system would have been a welcome addition for players struggling with particularly difficult levels.

Finally, the puzzles, while clever, tend to follow a similar structure. This lack of variety can lead to a sense of repetition, especially during extended play sessions.

Conclusion

She Remembered Caterpillars offers a unique and engaging puzzle experience with a captivating art style. However, its short length, lack of hints, and repetitive puzzle design hold it back from reaching its full potential. Despite these flaws, the game is worth checking out for puzzle enthusiasts looking for a tranquil and thought-provoking experience.