Cave Story+ review (2012)

Cave Story+ began as a solo project by Daisuke "Pixel" Amaya, first published in Japanese in 2004. Word of mouth turned it into an indie legend, eventually earning an official translation, a WiiWare release and multiple ports. The Plus edition arrived November 22, 2011; expect to pay $10/£7 (in 2012).

The game is a retro-tinged platformer centred on exploration, combat and upgradable weapons. You wander a subterranean world, shoot strange creatures, fight bosses and collect items that open new areas. Levels feel intricate without becoming confusing, and they keep a steady sense of forward momentum even as the story branches and secrets pile up.

Progression focuses on weapon upgrades rather than character stats: skilled play yields stronger attacks while careless play can lead to regular downgrades. New gadgets broaden options—double-jump boots or using the machinegun’s kickback to pogo between ledges, for example.

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