Recent reviews by Ryry

Symphonia is the very first precision-platformer game I’ve ever played, and I have to say, it made my first experience with this genre an incredibly fun and memorable one! As someone new to this type of game, I was a little nervous at first, but Symphonia turned out to be a perfect game to introduce me to be this kind of genre.

I first discovered Symphonia during the Save and Sound 2024 event, and I was immediately drawn to the effort and dedication that went into its creation. Hearing about the game’s focus on producing orchestral music to accompany its gameplay left a lasting impression on me, and I couldn’t wait to try it out for myself. And now, after finally getting the chance to play it, I can say that I can feel all the care and passion the developers had poured into this game, especially with the stunning visual and the captivating music. But more than that, it’s surprisingly beginner-friendly for a precision-platformer, which is a huge plus for someone like me who is entirely new to precision-platformers.

Another aspect of Symphonia that I feel should be taken a note of is the game's accessibility options. Symphonia lets you toggle certain elements on or off, adjust the game’s speed, and customize a variety of settings to make the experience more comfortable. These options are perfect for players who might feel intimidated by the genre or just want to tailor the game to their own pace. For me, it meant I could take my time, slowly enjoying the game at my own rhythm while letting Philemon (the protagonist) lull me with his violin playing during those rare moments I wasn’t dying (which, let’s be honest, happened about 60% of the time).

On the flip side, I can see how someone who loves a good challenge could use those same features to speedrun the game or have a friendly competition with friends who also love platformers. I think that flexibility is part of what makes Symphonia so special, it’s as accessible or as intense as you want it to be.

And yes, I died, a lot . But here’s the thing: I never felt frustrated or like I wanted to quit. The game has this incredible way of keeping you motivated and happy, even when you’re stuck on a tough part. Every time I managed to overcome a big obstacle, I felt this huge rush of satisfaction and pride. It’s the kind of game that makes you smile at your own progress, no matter how small. Honestly, if someone told me they wanted to try a precision-platformer for the first time, I’d recommend Symphonia in a heartbeat. It’s cozy, comforting, and doesn’t rush you, which is perfect for easing newcomers into the genre.

The story in Symphonia is also worth mentioning. It’s fairly linear, but what makes it stand out is how it’s told entirely without words. Instead, the narrative unfolds through cutscenes, environmental details, and little visual hints scattered throughout the game. It’s the kind of storytelling that invites you to slow down, observe, and piece things together yourself, which I think adds to the game’s overall charm.

Since I’m new to this genre, I don’t really have any technical feedback or suggestions, but I do hope my perspective as a first-timer helps shed some light on what makes Symphonia so special. It’s a game that welcomed me into a genre I’d never tried before, and I’m so grateful for that!

So, to Symphonia: thank you for being my introduction to the world of precision-platformers. Your music, your art, and your gameplay have left a lasting impression on me, and I couldn’t have asked for a better game to start with. Here’s to more violin performances, more satisfying jumps, and maybe just a little less dying next time! 🎻✨

Feel free to check out my first longplay video of Symphonia here!
https://steamproxy.net/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3381398958

Originally posted by author:

If you love relaxing games and a slow-paced, cozy vibe, check out my YouTube channel! 🩷

Originally posted by author:

Follow Caffeinated Games for more of heartwarming recommendations! ☕

My first impression of Dungeon Inn was that it feels unlike any other inn management game I've played. From the start, the game gives a refreshing twist by focusing less on managing the inn itself and more on managing the guests. The inn is cleverly placed between two rivaling guilds, so the key to success lies in making sure everyone’s stay is well-managed and, ideally, without too much chaos. This approach to gameplay feels fresh and really stood out to me—I haven’t come across another game quite like it, and I loved how different it felt from the usual management games.

The gameplay is surprisingly easy to pick up, even though this is my first time playing something like it. The tutorials provided were super detailed and easy to follow, helping me get comfortable with the mechanics in no time. One thing to note is that the tutorial menu can only be accessed at the end of the in-game week, which can be a bit inconvenient. I hope the developer add an option to check tutorials anytime from the settings in the future, so you don’t have to wait five days to review a tip you might have missed.

Dungeon Inn offers two difficulty levels: Casual and Courageous. I went straight for Courageous, and so far, it’s been smooth sailing without needing to restart any days. Speaking of which, I love that the game automatically saves each day in multiple separate slots. So, for example, you’re currently on the fourth day of the week (Day 4) and you want to retrace your step from the second day of the week (Day 2), you can easily jump back to an earlier save and adjust your strategy. This flexibility is a big plus, especially for a strategy management game where you might want to backtrack a bit.

As for the story, it’s light-hearted and quite funny! Sara, our innkeeper, is driven by a laser focus on earning gold—even if it is obtained through some... let’s say, “creative” tactics. Her methods might be questionable at times, but that just makes her more relatable and fun. She’s joined by Bami and Butter, two cats that definitely fits the description of "brain and brawn duo". Together, these trio makes for a perfect mix of cooperation and comedy. There are also some light dark humor moments scattered around (which I personally enjoy), but it’s all done in a way that makes you laugh rather than feel too serious. If you’re someone who loves a bit of lore, the game offers side stories with customers that you can unlock as your affinity with them grows! I find that these little tales make for a fun read as you progress through the game.

Visually, Dungeon Inn is pure charm. The artwork is adorable, and I’d love to see a gallery feature added so I could browse through the game’s lovely illustrations. The user interface is also thoughtfully designed, although it can feel a bit overwhelming with a lot happening on your screen at times. For some, this might feel overwhelming, but since the game isn’t on a strict timer, you can take your time to go through everything at your own pace. You won’t be rushed, so you can really take in all the little details and plan your moves carefully.

One thing that really stands out is how the game reflects the challenges of the hospitality industry today. The way events unfold throughout the game feels very much like the unpredictable nature of running a real-life business—there’s always something new to deal with, and sometimes things go wrong in ways you least expect. The addition of a weather system in this game also adds a level of complexity, forcing you to adapt to different conditions and adjust your strategies.

Overall, Dungeon Inn is a perfect pick for anyone who wants a break from real life’s hustle and bustle and instead decides to hustle in a game. It has a bit of everything: a dragon supervisor/investor (10/10 would love to have a dragon supervisor in real life too), cozy moments where you can take your time counting people's steps—which will immediately turn into panic once you realize you might have miscounted—as well as fun cameo appearances (not telling, but I was so giddy when I saw them), and some cup-breaking (my heart breaks too) moments that happen often in the game.

If you’re looking for a lighthearted, engaging management game with personality and charm, Dungeon Inn is worth a stay!

Feel free to check out my first longplay video of Dungeon Inn here!
https://steamproxy.net/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3365619152

Originally posted by author:

If you love relaxing games and a slow-paced, cozy vibe, check out my YouTube channel! 🩷

Originally posted by author:

Follow Caffeinated Games for more of heartwarming recommendations! ☕

If you're on the lookout for a game where you can be stuck—literally—with your partner but still manage to look cute and adorable, PHOGS is a must-try! If you're on the hunt for a cute and charming co-op game that will have you and your partner stuck together in the most adorable way, PHOGS is absolutely the game for you! This is the kind of game that’s perfect for easing into the co-op genre, with gameplay that's lighthearted, simple, and guaranteed to make you smile. Its difficulty is far more forgiving compared to some other co-op games out there, and the quirky physics add an extra layer of hilarity to the experience. The sight of two dogs joined together, navigating puzzles, is bound to keep things fun and stress-free.

One of the things I absolutely adore about PHOGS is the dreamy world it creates. Each level feels like stepping into a different dreamland filled with vibrant colors and the most adorable creatures. It's like you’re traveling through a series of magical, otherworldly places that make you feel warm and fuzzy inside. As you and your partner explore, you'll solve fun and approachable puzzles that never feel overwhelming. It's the perfect mix of challenge and charm—just enough to keep you engaged, but not so tough that you'll want to give up or (even worse) end up frustrated with each other. It’s honestly the co-op game I’d recommend to anyone who wants a fun, easygoing time without risking any friendship drama!

As for playtime, I feel like PHOGS offers a great balance. It’s not too long to the point of feeling exhausting, but it’s not so short that you’re left wanting more. The game is well worth its price, offering just enough gameplay to feel rewarding and satisfying without dragging on.

However, like any game, PHOGS has a few glitches. Sometimes, player two might not be able to see all the hats in the hat shop, preventing you from unlocking some items. There are also occasional glitches during gameplay, but these often lead to hilarious moments with your partner, like when your dog body starts twisting and glitching nonstop.

The most significant issue I encountered was trying to enter an arcade machine and failing repeatedly. Thankfully, this problem was fixed by visiting another area first and then returning to the arcade machine.

Despite these small issues, PHOGS is still a cozy, cute, and relationship-safe co-op game! If you're a fan of wholesome, adorable games and want a lighthearted experience with a friend or partner, this is definitely the game to try. It's charming, fun, and full of heartwarming moments!

Originally posted by author:

If you love relaxing games and a slow-paced, cozy vibe, check out my YouTube channel! 🩷

Originally posted by author:

Follow Caffeinated Games for your daily dose of heartwarming recommendations! ☕

Tell Me Your Story is a cozy puzzle game that immediately draws you in with its cute, aesthetic, and beautifully distinctive art. The moment I started playing, I knew the art would be memorable—something you can instantly recognize as unique to this game. The visual style has a special charm that sets it apart, making it feel like you’re flipping through the pages of an illustrated storybook!

The story is equally charming, centering around a young girl visiting her grandmother. Through a series of lovely scenes, the grandmother shares tales of her adventurous past, exploring the world, and meeting the love of her life.

What makes "Tell Me Your Story" even more special is how it communicates its narrative—not through words, but through art. The game requires you to carefully interpret each scene to piece together the grandmother’s tale. With minimal writing, you’re left to immerse yourself in the visuals and really pay attention to the details to understand the story.

When I first started playing, I felt this game was perfect for children. The colorful, fun art is definitely a big part of that. But beyond the visuals, the game offers wonderful learning opportunities for kids. From basic concepts like coloring, as seen when Amelia colors her reflection in the mirror, to knowledge about places around the world—like discovering poisonous frogs in the Amazon—the game is both entertaining and educational. It also introduces basic thinking skills, like pairing pictures or making hot chocolate, which can really aid in a child's development.

However, I did notice that some stages of the game had an unbalanced difficulty level. The lack of clear instructions and information about refilling hints might make it challenging, especially for younger players who may struggle to solve puzzles on their own.

Despite these challenges, "Tell Me Your Story" remains one of a game that you can relax into. The unique art, heartwarming narrative, and subtle educational elements make it a choice for anyone looking for a cozy experience. If you're in the mood for a game that feels like a warm hug and also provides some gentle brain exercise, this is definitely one to try!

Originally posted by author:

If you love relaxing games and a slow-paced, cozy vibe, join me on Twitch![www.twitch.tv] 🩷

Originally posted by author:

Follow Caffeinated Games for your daily dose of heartwarming recommendations! ☕

Are you a fan of ducks like me? Do you dream of becoming a duck yourself? And do you love spending time in a cozy, chill game, playing a cute point-and-click adventure while solving mysteries? If so, then you definitely have to take a look at this game! 🦆

The first thing that grabbed my heart was the adorable art style, with Eugene, our ducktective, donning a classic detective outfit complete with a trench coat and hat. This charming look perfectly captures the essence of a classic detective. As you play the game further, you'll find that its point-and-click mechanics allow you to explore, collect clues, and arrange them in your notebook to form correct de(duck)tions (I love this pun!).

In addition to the delightful visuals, the game features a variety of characters whose names you need to guess by matching clues from the “Suspects” section of your notebook. The fully voiced characters add depth and personality to the game, enhancing the experience. While many on my stream have fallen for Eugene’s deep voice, I must admit, I have a soft spot for the quacks!

Speaking of quacking, the game has a totally hilarious feature where you can press a button to make Eugene quack! It's such a fun addition. Adorable duck? Quack. Strange case? Quack. Need more evidence? Quack. Brain not braining? Quack. I love the quack feature!

Another fun aspect is how easily you can knock over trash cans. Just walk up to a trash can, and it will tip over, scattering trash everywhere. It's chaotic, refreshing, and you even get an achievement for knocking over enough trash cans! The developers encourage it, so go ahead and knock over every trash can you see—in the game, of course.

For achievement hunters, this game is a treat. It doesn’t have many achievements, and they’re quite easy to complete. For content creators and streamers, I finished the game in one stream (around 5 hours) even with my turtle pace and lots of chatting. It's a short but entertaining game, perfect for some brain-frying fun with your community!

There are so many things I adore about this game, and I really hope Happy Broccoli Games makes a sequel. I've grown so attached to Eugene and look forward to more of his adventures, hopefully seeing his ex-wife in the game to understand their relationship better. We saw her photo in Eugene's room, but that’s not enough! 😭

If you love ducks, cozy mysteries, and charming adventures, this game is a must-play! 🌟

Originally posted by author:

If you love relaxing games and a slow-paced, cozy vibe, join me on Twitch![www.twitch.tv] 🩷

Originally posted by author:

Follow Caffeinated Games for your daily dose of heartwarming recommendations! ☕

If you're on the hunt for a story-based RPG that'll tug at your heartstrings and stick with you long after the credits roll, then look no further – To The Moon has got you covered.

Now, don't let the game's appearance fool you. Sure, it may not have all the flashy graphics of some other titles, but trust me when I say this: it's a solid 10/10 when it comes to evoking emotions. Seriously, if you're not prepared to shed a tear or two, you might want to steer clear – this game will hit you right in the feels.

And Freebird Games? More like Feel Free to Cry Games, because that's exactly what this game is designed to make you do. I mean, I cried my eyes out, and I'm not ashamed to admit it.

Full disclosure: I didn't discover To The Moon on my own. Nope, it was actually a gift from my best friend. And let me tell you, I've never been so torn between thanking them and being mad at them. Playing this game was like riding an emotional rollercoaster – one minute I was laughing, the next I was ugly crying.

But enough about my emotional turmoil. Let's talk about what makes this game so special. The story? Incredible. The music? Absolutely top-notch. I mean, seriously, I've never been so thoroughly wrecked by a game before. But you know what? I wouldn't have it any other way.

To The Moon isn't just a game – it's an experience. It's a journey through love, loss, and everything in between. And even though it may leave you feeling a little emotionally drained, I promise you, it's worth every single tear.

So if you're up for an unforgettable adventure that'll make you laugh, cry, and everything in between, then do yourself a favor and give To The Moon a try. Just make sure you've got a box of tissues handy – trust me, you're gonna need them!

Originally posted by author:

If you love relaxing games and a slow-paced, cozy vibe, join me on Twitch![www.twitch.tv] 🩷

Originally posted by author:

Follow Caffeinated Games for your daily dose of heartwarming recommendations! ☕

Florence is a short, interactive game that's like a little treasure chest of life lessons about love, life, and dreams. And let me tell you, it delivers those lessons in the most heartwarming way possible.

The gameplay is short and sweet – the kind of game you can breeze through in one sitting. It's perfect for those times when you're craving a meaningful story experience without the commitment of a longer game. But here's the thing: even after you've clicked that start button and found yourself back at the cheerful yellow title screen with Florence's smiling face, the emotions and insights from the game itself is going to stick with you for a long time.

I can't quite put my finger on what makes Florence so impactful. Maybe it's the stunning artwork that's an absolute feast for the eyes. Or perhaps it's the beautiful melodies that serve as the perfect backdrop to every chapter of Florence's journey. Whatever it is, as you navigate through the game, you'll encounter so many real-life situations that hit close to home. It's like peering into a mirror and seeing your own experiences reflected back at you. And that's what makes Florence truly special – its ability to resonate with players on such a deep and personal level.

From that relatable, I hope, Florence can also help people going through similar predicaments. There are lots of life lessons hidden throughout the game, although it may be hard to notice them on your first playthrough. But if you're willing to embark on a second or even a third playthrough, taking the time to soak in all the details and meanings behind every puzzle and activity in Florence, you'll discover that even the smallest actions, like scrolling through social media in the game, hold deep significance.

So yes, if you're searching for a game with a story as genuine as they come, touching on work, passion, dreams, life, and love, then Florence is the perfect choice for you. And even if you find yourself frustrated by the lack of details about the story's continuation and ending, I believe that too is a reflection of life itself. After all, in life, we don't always get neat conclusions, do we?

Originally posted by author:

If you love relaxing games and a slow-paced, cozy vibe, join me on Twitch![www.twitch.tv] 🩷

Originally posted by author:

Follow Caffeinated Games for your daily dose of heartwarming recommendations! ☕

Sumire is such a heartwarming game where we get to tag along with Sumire and her flower on a special journey that lasts just one day. And if you thought one day wasn't enough time for a game or in our busy lives, think again – this game is about to prove you wrong!

Set in a charming Japanese countryside, you'll be right there with Sumire and her flower, striving to make this day absolutely perfect, just as we promised. With its stunning art style and captivating music, get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions – from happiness to anger, anger to sadness, sadness to fear... It's a complete emotional rollercoaster that we are going to be experiencing together with Sumire.

During this single-day journey, you'll witness so many events that might seem a bit cheesy (like childhood crushes), or they might bring back painful memories from the past that you thought were locked away, or remind you of unfinished business that you might have left in the back of your mind. There are plenty of life events in this game that I'm sure many people can relate to, and loads of valuable life lessons to learn from it too.

And on top of all the emotional journey, the game also treats us to several fun mini-games that are so well-made they could have been their own games! Sumire feels like a real hidden gem, and I absolutely recommend giving it a try if you're up for a journey filled with beautiful art, music, and life lessons.

Who knows, maybe after playing this game, you'll realize that sometimes, all it takes to change our lives is just to have one perfect, courageous, and forgiving day ✨

Originally posted by author:

If you love relaxing games and a slow-paced, cozy vibe, join me on Twitch![www.twitch.tv] 🩷

Originally posted by author:

Follow Caffeinated Games for your daily dose of heartwarming recommendations! ☕

If I had to sum up this game in one word, it would be: CUTE

I mean, come on, managing a street where you can build your own boba café? Adorable.
And finding out the developers are a couple? Absolutely precious.
The sight of so many cats sauntering around during the day with their charming little steps? Utterly adorable.
Plus, being able to build various buildings and customize their colors and shapes? Adorable overload.
Last but not least, the tanuki mascot who loves to play hide and seek (and actually adding more to your workload) is..... tiring but cute :(

Everything about this game is just full of cuteness!

But on a more serious note, I have to commend the attention to detail in this game. Adding sugar to your boba or removing a shrimp can actually alter the appearance of your food/drink, and that level of detail is just fantastic. And those cute little sound effects? Pure joy – from the bustling sound of people, clinking sound of coins to the adorable meowing of the cat... Pair them with this beautiful BGM that accompanies you right from the start, Minami Lane definitely treated us with a delightful auditory experience that adds to the overall charm.

And let's not forget the humor sprinkled throughout the game as you progress. Reading the news headlines and anticipating how they might affect your building progress is a form of entertainment in itself, although NOOOO TOKTAK TREND STOPPPPP :(((((

Also love your song selection (and parody) for the karaoke bar <3

Overall, Minami Lane is the perfect escape for anyone looking to unwind and immerse themselves in a world of cute graphics and charming music. The game strikes the perfect balance with its missions, offering just enough to keep you engaged without overwhelming you. Even the most daunting tasks later in the game can be tackled with ease as long as you have the funds to back it up (literally). I can't recommend this game enough for those seeking relaxation, fun, and a delightful escape into managing a street (while being reminded of the realities of society today) 🫶

Originally posted by author:

If you love relaxing games and a slow-paced, cozy vibe, join me on Twitch![www.twitch.tv] 🩷

Originally posted by author:

Follow Caffeinated Games for your daily dose of heartwarming recommendations! ☕

Fae Farm is a game that instantly steals my breath away, captivating me right from the title screen. The stunning art and graphics, coupled with dynamic animations and a vibrant color palette, create an immersive experience that feels like a journey into a magical world.

One standout feature that I adore is the extensive character customization options. The diverse range of customization choices reflects the developers' acknowledgment of the richness of diversity in the world. There were some clothing options that pleasantly surprised me, as they are rarely seen in games, and I genuinely appreciate the attention to detail in this aspect!

Not only that, the major charm in Fae Farm, I believe, lies in its mystery. While wandering through Azoria, you'll encounter blocked areas and pedestals, sparking curiosity and tempting you to explore beyond the confines of your home farm. It's a gentle reminder to balance your exploration with farm responsibilities – don't forget you have a farm (and animals, later) to tend to!

On the flip side, I do feel that the in-game conversations could use a bit of a spice-up. While the game's charm primarily lies in exploration and the multiplayer feature, where socializing with friends takes center stage, adding a touch of personal information or casual chit-chat with townspeople, not just those available for marriage, could create a stronger sense of connection with the game's characters.

Overall, Fae Farm is a feast for the eyes and offers a myriad of activities (farming, taking care of animals, fishing, bug-catching, exploring... Did I miss one?) to keep players engrossed in its enchanting world. As my experience is based on the base game and I haven't yet tried the newest DLC, I will be updating this review as soon as I'm back from the croak croak nation!