Overview
- Nintendo and Retro Studios release reviews ahead of the December 4 launch on Switch and Switch 2, with aggregators showing scores around 80 on Metacritic.
- Reviewers report flawless or near‑flawless performance on Switch 2 with selectable modes that include 4K/60fps or 1080p/120fps docked and 1080p/60fps or 720p/120fps handheld.
- Visuals, atmosphere, boss encounters and puzzle design draw broad praise, with several outlets calling the title a showcase for the new hardware.
- New elements such as psychic abilities and the Vi‑O‑La motorcycle reshape traversal through the Sol Valley hub, though the open‑area desert is frequently described as sparse.
- Common critiques include pacing and overworld padding, chatty or intrusive companion moments, and sparse save systems, with some noting floaty shooting and limited early difficulty options.