Iris and the Giant Review

Iris and the Giant is an enchanting video game that has taken the indie gaming world by surprise. Developed by French developer, Louis Rigaud, the game combines intricate card game mechanics with captivating dungeon-crawling elements, all while telling a heartwarming story. In this review, I will delve into the gameplay elements of Iris and the Giant, highlighting its standout features and why it is a must-play game.

In Iris and the Giant, the card game mechanics are undoubtedly its most impressive aspect. The game presents players with a set of cards that represent their character’s abilities and stats, and players must strategically choose which cards to play in each turn. This system adds a layer of depth and complexity to the game, as players must carefully consider the strengths and weaknesses of each card and how to utilize them in battle best. The customization options are also extensive, allowing players to tailor their character’s abilities to their play style. The game’s card system is both intuitive and challenging, offering a unique and engaging experience.

The dungeon-crawling elements of the game are also expertly crafted. Players must navigate through a series of interconnected rooms, each with enemies and obstacles. The dungeon designs are cleverly thought out, with almost every room presenting a new challenge and puzzle to solve. The game’s difficulty curve is also well balanced, with earlier levels serving as tutorials for the mechanics and later levels providing a more challenging experience. The game’s dungeon-crawling elements are immersive and captivating, providing a sense of exploration and adventure that makes the game feel like a true journey.

The game’s story is equally outstanding, exploring themes of grief, anxiety, and depression through metaphoric storytelling. Enemies represent the protagonist’s inner demons, and the game’s narrative is a touching and emotional journey toward healing. The story is expertly paced, with each dungeon representing a metaphorical step toward self-discovery and acceptance. The game’s narrative is a testament to the power of video games as a storytelling medium, as it manages to tackle complex and heavy themes with grace and sensitivity.

The game’s art style is simple yet beautiful, with a hand-drawn aesthetic that gives the game a unique and charming look. The character designs are particularly striking. The game’s soundtrack is also good, with each track perfectly capturing the mood and atmosphere of the game. The combination of the game’s art and music adds to the game’s immersive and enchanting nature, creating a sense of wonder and curiosity that draws players in.

One minor drawback of the game is its lack of replayability. The game can be completed in around five hours, and while the story is emotionally satisfying, there is little incentive to replay it once it’s finished. However, this is a minor issue, as the game’s excellent writing and mechanics make it an experience worth playing through at least once.

In conclusion, Iris and the Giant is a remarkable video game that excels in its card game mechanics, dungeon crawling, and storytelling. The game’s emotional story and allegorical approach to its themes of anxiety and depression make it a standout experience in the world of indie games. The game’s art style and soundtrack are also unique, making it a complete package that is worth its price. If you are a fan of card games, dungeon crawlers, or emotionally rich stories, then Iris and the Giant is a must-play game that should not be missed.

The review code was provided by the publisher