Exploring Europa on the Nintendo Switch: A Soothing Yet Thought-Provoking Journey
Europa, now available on the Nintendo Switch, is a serene and visually captivating puzzle-platformer that blends philosophical reflection with the beauty of a distant moon. Developed by Novadust Entertainment and Future Friends Games, Europa offers players an experience that’s both soothing and immersive, although it does come with a few bumps along the way.
Set on one of Jupiter’s moons, Europa tells the story of Zee, a lone android child navigating an alien landscape, guided by the remnants of a journal left by Adam, Zee’s deceased father. With the mysterious floating island overhead, the game encourages players to explore at a relaxed pace, allowing the beauty of the game’s vibrant, Studio Ghibli-inspired landscapes to shine through. The game's wind gently pushes players along their path, inviting them to stop and admire the natural beauty around them while also hinting at deeper ecological themes.
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While Europa is light on traditional puzzles and combat, it’s the sense of discovery and the relationship between humanity and nature that stands at its core. Players glide through the air with the help of a jetpack, reminiscent of Spyro the Dragon’s bursts of flight, while solving relatively simple puzzles to progress. These puzzles often involve collecting fuel spheres or unlocking new pathways. The game also offers optional collectibles for those looking for a bit more challenge, though the core gameplay remains peaceful and meditative.
Europa’s narrative asks players to reflect on the consequences of humanity’s disconnection from nature, an idea represented by the futuristic landscape and the strange, tech-infused creatures Zee encounters. Yet, the game doesn’t hit these philosophical notes with the depth one might hope for. While the journal entries are meant to deepen the emotional connection between Zee and his father, they sometimes feel disjointed, leaving players with more questions than answers about the true stakes of the story.
One of Europa’s strongest points is its striking visual design. The sweeping grasslands and futuristic structures evoke a world where nature and technology meet in harmony, drawing clear inspiration from films like Howl’s Moving Castle . However, the game’s beauty is occasionally interrupted by clunky controls and stiff animation, particularly on the Switch, where movements can feel slow or imprecise.
Despite its flaws, Europa offers an atmospheric and visually stunning experience for those who enjoy more reflective, slower-paced games. It may not push the boundaries of storytelling or gameplay, but its soothing world and gentle exploration make it a memorable journey worth taking. For those seeking a relaxing escape into a beautiful and thoughtful world, Europa might just be the perfect companion on your next gaming adventure.
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