Klonoa Door to Phantomile

🎮 PlayStation ⏳ 6 hours ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Distinct 2.5D Identity #

This game is a platformer that feels both familiar and unique, it uses a “2.5D” perspective: you move along a 2D plane, but the world itself is rendered in 3D, with winding paths and camera shifts that make levels feel alive and dynamic. This gave the game a distinct identity at a time when most studios were moving fully into 3D platformers. It was one of the few titles of this sub-genre that I’ve ever played, and I can totally see myself bring blown away by this if I played it back in the day, so I genuinely recognize it’s impact in the industry.

Clever Core Mechanics #

Gameplay centers around Klonoa’s Wind Ring, which lets him grab enemies and either throw them forward as projectiles or use them as a boost to reach higher ground. This simple mechanic fuels surprisingly clever puzzles and keeps the action engaging throughout. The controls are tight, and the level design steadily layers new challenges without ever overwhelming the player, platforming feels satisfying enough even withouth being the main focus. I’ve also played the GBA Klonoa, but this one feels much nicer in my opinion, it has a more balanced approach to puzzle and platforming, instead of being totally focused in the puzzle side.

Whimsical Yet Melancholic #

The game’s presentation is one of its strongest points. Its worlds are colorful and whimsical, paired with a bright, catchy soundtrack that perfectly captures the dreamlike setting, although it is not the best OST of this genre, it is still very high quality and memorable. But underneath the cheerful surface lies an emotional, even melancholic story that takes players by surprise. Which I can’t think of a single reason of it being this way other than it being released on a not very mature gaming industry period of time, since this game was meant to be for children as it’s target audience.

Bittersweet Cult Classic #

By the end, Door to Phantomile delivers a bittersweet narrative that sticks with you long after the credits roll. It’s not a very long or difficult game, but its charm, inventiveness, and emotional weight have earned it a cult classic status, I consider it an underrated gem which should have way more titles released already. I played the OG PlayStation version, but I recommend that if you are interested than grab the re-release for PC or more modern platforms.