Developed by Sabotage Studio and published by Devolver Digital, The Messenger can almost be considered two games in one. The game sees you taking control of a ninja from a remote village off to deliver a scroll to a legendary warrior. The first half of the game is a 8-bit linear side scrolling action game reminiscent of Ninja Gaiden, while the second half of the game sees you revisiting the world in a future with 16-bit graphics, as the game becomes a Metroidvania. Throughout the game you’ll unlock dozens of skills and abilities. Early on, you’ll learn a skill called the Cloudstep, where you can perform an additional jump after attacking an enemy or projectile. It’s easy to master, and you’ll be using it a lot throughout the game. The controls are tight and response, and the gameplay is challenging. The Messenger is right up there with games like Shovel Knight that serve as retro throwbacks for fans of old school gaming. Even so, it’s got enough new tricks for today’s gamers as well.
