Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

The moment you pick up the controller, Syd of Valis delivers a straightforward yet satisfying side-scrolling experience. Movement is crisp and responsive, with Syd darting across platforms, leaping over chasms, and scaling walls with ease. Combat revolves around her trusty Valis sword, and every strike feels weighty enough to land a satisfying blow on the whimsical monsters that lurk in the dreamworld of Vekanti.

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Compared to its source material, Valis II, this reworked edition opts for simplified mechanics that lower the barrier to entry. There’s no need to juggle complicated magic menus or lengthy cooldowns—collectible power-ups appear frequently and can be equipped on the fly, so you’re never stuck grinding for the perfect loadout. This pick-up-and-play approach will appeal to younger gamers and newcomers to the genre, while still offering enough depth for veterans to experiment with different weapon and armor combinations.

Level design keeps the action varied by mixing tight platforming segments with open combat arenas. You’ll encounter puzzles that require precise timing and reflexes, as well as mini-boss clashes that test your mastery of weapon reach and special abilities. The overall pacing strikes a solid balance between exploration and forward momentum, ensuring you’re motivated to see what challenges await around the next corner.

Graphics

Visually, Syd of Valis embraces a charming “Super Deformed” chibi style, turning its heroine and foes into adorable, big-headed sprites. This aesthetic choice not only softens the game’s more gothic themes but also makes each locale pop with bright, inviting colors. Forests shimmer with emerald leaves, while haunted castles glow in eerie purples—every backdrop feels lovingly crafted to complement Syd’s adventures.

Animation is smooth throughout, with fluid attack motions and expressive enemy reactions that bring the world to life. When Syd swings her sword or boots a baddie offscreen, the impact frames reinforce the sense of power and momentum. Even the small details—like fluttering cape edges or twinkling magic runes—add extra polish to the presentation.

The user interface is equally well-executed, with clear HUD elements that track health, equipped items, and magic meter without cluttering the screen. Power-up icons are colorful and easy to distinguish in the heat of combat, so you’ll never fumble when you need to swap gear on the fly. Overall, the graphics strike an ideal balance between playful charm and classic action-platformer clarity.

Story

At its heart, Syd of Valis weaves a simple yet engaging narrative: Syd (originally Yuko) is an ordinary schoolgirl chosen by the mystical Valis sword to protect the dream realm of Vekanti. When dark forces threaten to engulf both worlds, she must journey across twisted landscapes to restore peace and discover her own inner strength.

Story beats are delivered through concise cutscenes and occasional in-game dialogue boxes, keeping the plot moving without bogging down the action. Localization tweaks ensure character motivations remain clear and heartfelt for Western audiences, with Syd’s determination and occasional playful quips giving her a likable personality. While the overall plot isn’t revolutionary, it offers enough charm to keep you invested until the final confrontation.

Though there aren’t multiple branching endings, replay value comes from uncovering hidden lore entries and tracking down all collectible artifacts scattered across each stage. These extras deepen the backstory of Vekanti’s fallen kingdoms and the origin of the Valis sword itself, rewarding completionists with a fuller picture of the game’s mythos.

Overall Experience

Syd of Valis is a delightful modern twist on an early ’90s platformer, expertly balancing accessibility with just enough complexity to satisfy seasoned players. It doesn’t overstay its welcome—most playthroughs clock in around six to eight hours—but the brisk pace and well-designed levels leave a lasting impression.

Prospective buyers looking for a kid-friendly action title will find plenty to love here: bright visuals, easy-to-learn controls, and a heroic protagonist who radiates positive energy. If you crave deeper challenge, the game’s higher difficulty modes and hidden secrets provide an extra layer of replayability. The balance between exploration, combat, and light puzzle-solving ensures that each level feels fresh.

In summary, Syd of Valis is a highly recommended pick for anyone wanting a polished, chibi-style action-platformer with heart. Whether you’re new to the Valis franchise or a longtime fan of sword-wielding heroines, this reimagined adventure stands on its own as an engaging, replayable experience. Strap on the magical blade and prepare to embark on a colorful quest through the dreamworld of Vekanti—you won’t be disappointed.

Retro Replay Score

5.3/10