The Eternal Life of Goldman, the upcoming side-scrolling platformer from Weappy Studio, is shaping up to be one of the most visually stunning and mechanically intriguing games of the year. At a recent Gamescom press event, I had the opportunity to go hands-on with this breathtaking adventure, and I came away thoroughly impressed.
A Visual Feast
From the moment you lay eyes on The Eternal Life of Goldman, it’s impossible not to be captivated by its gorgeous hand-drawn art style. Every frame is meticulously crafted, bringing to life a world inspired by ancient fables and myths. The attention to detail is staggering, with vibrant foregrounds and intricate backgrounds that make each scene feel alive and full of hidden secrets.
Cane-Based Gameplay
At the heart of Goldman’s gameplay is the titular character’s upgradable cane. This versatile tool serves as both a weapon and a means of traversal, reminiscent of classic platformers like DuckTales. During my hands-on time, I found the cane-based mechanics to be intuitive and satisfying. Solving environmental puzzles and overcoming obstacles using Goldman’s stick added a layer of depth to the traditional platforming formula.
A Tapestry of Beliefs
One of the most intriguing aspects of The Eternal Life of Goldman is its incorporation of various religious elements. The game weaves together legends, fairy tales, and myths from different cultures, creating a rich tapestry of beliefs that informs both the narrative and the game world. This unique approach to storytelling sets Goldman apart from other platformers and promises a thought-provoking experience.
Challenging Yet Fair
While The Eternal Life of Goldman offers a significant challenge, it never feels unfair or frustrating. The developers have struck a delicate balance, creating a game that demands precision without resorting to trial-and-error gameplay. Instead, success comes through improvisation and creative problem-solving, making each triumph feel earned and satisfying.
A Labor of Love
It’s clear that The Eternal Life of Goldman is a passion project for the team at Weappy Studio. The game exudes charm and personality, from its quirky protagonist to its imaginative world design. The developers’ love for classic cartoons, comics, and games shines through in every aspect of the production. The Eternal Life of Goldman is shaping up to be a must-play title for fans of platformers and hand-drawn animation alike. With its stunning visuals, innovative gameplay mechanics, and intriguing narrative, this PS5 exclusive has the potential to be one of the standout games of the year. While no release date has been announced yet, The Eternal Life of Goldman is definitely one to keep on your radar.
