Welcome back to Backlog Busters, a column dedicated to clearing our never-ending video game backlog. Today we’re completing an indie game published by Bushiroad. That’s right, the same Bushiroad behind franchises like Cardfight!! Vanguard and BanG Dream!
Here’s what you need to know: Set on a luxury cruise ship, Gift is a side-scrolling adventure game that incorporates the thrill of escaping a ship with the danger of a drastically changing environment.
Developed by: Toydium, Million Edge
Played on: Steam
Length: 5 hours
A review key was provided by Toydium, Million Edge Inc & Bushiroad
If you’re a fan of Little Nightmares, you’re likely to enjoy this one. Gift is an atmospheric 3D side-scroller that reminds me of the former indie title in more ways than one; from its grim soundscape to its darker overarching themes. But where Little Nightmares delights in the grotesque, Gift presents a softer and more melancholic tale, filled with colourful character designs that almost feel out of place against its ruined backdrop.
The game first begins on a beautiful luxury cruise ship, where the main character finds himself mingling with the various passengers onboard. However, the developers waste no time upping the ante, as minutes into the intro sequence, a loud noise is heard and everything descends into chaos.
Gift leans into its setting to present a unique approach to the puzzle-platformer genre through dynamic and constantly shifting level design. As the ship begins to sink, players not only have to race against rapidly rising water levels, but also levels that tilt and sometimes even rotate up to 360 degrees. (Don’t ask me about the logistics of a cruise ship turning 360 degrees though — we’ll give it the benefit of the doubt here.)
Although the actual platforming mechanics aren’t anything out of the ordinary, the unexpected changes to the level design will keep you on your toes; adding a thrilling level of tension to this otherwise zen platforming experience.
As you make your way through the ship, the game offers up a surprisingly large map featuring plenty of characters to meet and over 60+ collectibles to be found. Collectibles are completely optional for players who prefer to focus on getting through the game, but lore hunters might want to spend the extra time to collect them, as the game itself doesn’t contain any dialogue and most of the story is told through these collectibles.
Unfortunately, my relationship with puzzle-platformers (including Little Nightmares) has always been a mixed bag. There is a fine line between challenging and frustrating, and Gift sadly falls into the latter category for a few reasons.
Due to its constantly shifting levels and largely similar-looking background design, it’s easy to lose your sense of direction in this game. This wouldn’t be as frustrating if the game had better indicators for which areas have already been explored, but there were too many times when I I found myself trying to find an exit or solve a puzzle that didn’t need to be solved; only to realise that I needed to be someplace else entirely.
Not only that, the game occasionally peppers in bullet hell or chase sequences that I can only describe as death loops. Because of your character’s lack of mobility, you’re forced to memorise the entire sequence from start to finish, instead of recognising patterns and reacting to them on the spot; resulting in a painful process of inching towards the finish line instead of a triumphant sprint.
Thankfully, the game is generous with save states and you won’t have to repeat too large of a chunk each time. However, it’s worth noting that the game keeps running even in the pause menu, so don’t hope for a moment of respite. Depending on the type of player you are, perhaps this player’s poison is another player’s meat.
Verdict: Another ‘one-and-done’ to add to the list
If you’re looking for a 4-5 hour game to occupy your weekend, add Gift to your list. Set on a sinking cruise ship, this indie game published by Bushiroad presents a unique approach to puzzle-platforming level design and a surprisingly large map to explore. Certain timed sequences do test your patience, but otherwise it’s a fairly decent way to spend your day.
Buy or wishlist Gift on Steam and top-up your Steam Wallet on Codashop.
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