It works pretty well as an action-platformer, but if you expect a deep metroidvania experience then you will be disappointed. There is little focus on unlocking new abilities. Having said that, exploration and combat are very good. While I am not a big fan of pixel art, this game is pixel art done good. Animations, animated cutscenes and boss models are amazingly detailed. Oh, and the gothic art direction! That is the main strength of the visuals. The biggest flaw of this game is lack of unlockable shortcuts in certain areas (especially since the game is considered a metroidvania), forcing player to backtrack through very tedious or just straight up frustrating moments. Yes, looking at you, scythe swings. In the end, Blasphemous is a very competent platformer in an interesting world. There are, however, things that could have done much better. 4.5/5
