I can’t even put into words how amazing Celeste is.

After 40 hours, 9,000 deaths, and a few all nighters, I finally finished chapter nine and nearly 100% completed the game (minus a few of the golden strawberries, I don’t think I have the mental strength to get them for Chapters 6 and on). That being said, I can safely say Celeste is my favorite platformer ever, and overall one of my favorite games of all time.

I've died so many times times but I never felt frustrated or cheated, I can't really explain what it is but the game feels so good to play, to the point where other platformers feel slow and punishing in comparison. The way you control Madeline feels so rewarding and smooth, and you respawn so quickly too. There are a few advanced techniques that reward mechanical players, and I can see why this game is popular with the speedrunners.

There is also an emotional story about Madeline that covers her struggles with her “inner demons”, it is weaved in seamlessly with the gameplay to convey a metaphor of how climbing the mountain is her conquering her fears. It’s a nice touch to complement the gameplay.

But for those who don't care for the story, it never feels overbearing because the main attraction of Celeste is always the outstanding gameplay. Celeste is meant to be accessible to anyone, and it offers challenges for more hardcore players and completionists, while still being playable to less advanced players.

Oh yeah, the soundtrack is also fantastic, thanks Lena (and all the composers on the B-sides, Celestial Resort in particular slaps).

Also, chapter nine is a fucking nightmare. Beating this single level was genuinely the hardest thing I’ve ever done in any video game. I beat the path of pain in Hollow Knight and I thought that was hard, but Farewell honestly makes the path of pain look like 1-1. Upon completing it, you either transcend to a masochist or have a severe case of arthritis.

11/10 Definitely recommend playing with a controller!