It’s ridiculously cheap for a game of this size and complexity, and it’ll absorb you for many, many hours. If you, like me, wish Nintendo would just make another Link To The Past, then this is a must-buy. It completely understands the remit, and then delivers and delivers and delivers.
Overall, Master Key finds solid ground to share with other notable indie Zelda-like games, feeling very much like a minimalist version of Tunic. The countless secrets of its world and the way in which it encourages you to search and reflect on every screen give it a remarkable sense of vitality. I know I haven’t seen all that its dense map has to offer, but I’ve still thoroughly enjoyed my time with Master Key and look forward to eventually diving back in to find what I missed.
MasterKey is reminiscent of old fashioned a Nintendo games, specifically the Legend of Zelda franchise. The game offers lots of exploration, secrets and puzzles that make the whole world feel worth exploring. While some may mention difficulty levels being high due to combat, I highly recommend adjusting the difficulty to one of the two easier modes post patch for a more accessible experience. Finally, the game is coupled with an amazing soundtrack that doesn't miss. I can't recommend this game enough.
I was a playtester of this game, and it is a real gem. It is up there with the classic 2D Zeldas. If you loved Link's Awakening on Game Boy, you should definitely try this. The minimalist design is part of the experience. The music is also very endearing and well crafted, which reinforces the appeal. The game doesn't hold you by the hand too much, and really encourages you to explore as much as you like with a well balanced non-linear progression. There is TONS of secrets that keeps you coming back - including very significant ones that would normally be main-game. There is even a neat bonus puzzle game on the side. I'm still having fun well over 20 hours in, so just go for it, dare to explore, and you'll have a blast!
Adventure gaming reduced to its purest form. It is hella fun exploring this little world, though the combat is lackluster after a while.I don't know if some quality of life improvements, like a proper map which you could edit to remind yourself of interesting spots, would go against the philosophy of this game, but I feel it'd make it flow even better.
SummaryMaster Key is a top-down adventure game with a strong focus on item-based exploration and secrets. Embark on a journey to discover what that key could be used for and meet colorful characters!