Want to know why we like covering indie games? Because a. these guys do it so well for themselves. And B. they can really do amazing things with retro themes.
The latest example of this is Fallen Leaf, a side-scrolling adventure akin to Shovel Knight and Mega Man. It’s the work of Delta Shore Games, a small three person team. And yet it provides a level of charm right up there with the aforementioned games.
It does have its slight difficulty spikes, and it’s all too easy to lose a precious power-up. But push those tiny negative points aside and you have a great adventure here. Not to mention one that’s sure to evoke memories of playing on your classic NES. Nothing wrong with that in the least.
Fallen Leaf Is All About Fighting Tyranny
In the game, you portray Leaf. He’s a brave treasure hunter pitted against a deadly ruler. As he begins his journey, he starts out small with simple power-ups. But as the game goes on, more extended relatives join the playable roster, each with their own special abilities. You’ll be able to pick and choose and save the world however you see fit.
Over the course of the game, you can pick up gauntlet upgrades. These increase your power quite a bit, very useful against tougher foes. However, you can also lose them quickly with a single hit – a staple of older game releases. That might frustrate some, but it’ll motivate you to be careful on your next run.
Fallen Leaf features an expansive open map that lets you chart out your course. Along with selecting levels, you can also stop by and talk to allies. Or you can even drop off “lost” plant children you find in each level to a growing beanstalk. There’s a lot to do here for a budget-priced ($17) indie game.
This game plays very well, with tight, precise controls and an old-school feel. There are slight moments of frustration in later levels when the odds stack against you. However, by that point, you’ll have plenty of heroes on hand to select from. So you can play – and win – your way. It’s a retro-designed adventure with the classic rules in mind, which are simple to adapt to.
With over 70 stages in all and plenty of hidden secrets, Fallen Leaf will certainly keep you busy. And if you grew up with 8-bit favorites (like myself), that enjoyment easily multiplies.
Tree-t Yourself To This Presentation
For a three person team, Delta Shore Games did a fine job with Fallen Leaf.
It looks splendid, never really extending past its 8-bit reach…but not really needing to. The backgrounds are vibrant and colorful; and the enemy design is creative. Love the boss designs, too, as they can pose an interesting challenge. The animations are cute (albeit simple – it’s retro), and the power-ups look fantastic, especially the later ones you find. Overall, it’s a real looker, setting up new ground while paying tribute to the past.
The music is great, too. It includes a fine selection of chiptunes that play over the course of your adventure. Well worth listening too. The sound effects are somewhat minimized but still serve their purpose as well.
Overall, there’s very little to complain about here. Delta Shore Games understands its classic footing with Fallen Leaf, and it shows.
Branching Out a Hit
We’re seeing more indie devs try their hands at 8-bit style development, and we love it. Fallen Leaf is a good reason why. It’s so wonderfully designed throughout, and plays very well. Even with its (very) mild setbacks, it comes highly recommended. Don’t be surprised if this one, ahem, grows on you.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to Delta Shore games for the review code!
You can buy Fallen Leaf on Steam now!
