REVIEW / Enchanting Delights (PC)

The platformer genre, while undeniably fun at its core, often faces a bit of an identity crisis. At their essence, these games have you hopping from place to place and taking down enemies. It’s challenging to get one title to truly stand out from the rest. Yet, this basic framework serves as a fantastic canvas for developers eager to experiment, like branching into Metroidvania territory. As stand-alone experiences, however, platformers sometimes need an extra layer to become something special. That’s why we’re diving into the world of “Magical Delicacy” today, a game that tackles this challenge head-on with a unique twist.

“Magical Delicacy” isn’t your run-of-the-mill platformer. It blends elements of an RPG with a whimsical cooking simulator. Sounds a bit off the wall? Well, that’s part of its charm. But the critical question is, does this unusual mix work seamlessly? For the most part, it hits the mark. There are a couple of minor snags I’ll touch on later, largely related to individual preferences and slightly lacking quality-of-life improvements.

In this game, you step into the shoes of a witch on a quest for self-discovery in the bustling city. She starts her journey by opening a bakery, catering to the whims and cravings of the townsfolk. And while fulfilling orders is a major gameplay component, it’s only scratching the surface of the storyline. The game offers much more depth, with engaging RPG elements that I’ll leave you to explore personally. The plot is crafted well enough to keep you wanting more, engaging players without overwhelming them.

Explaining the gameplay of “Magical Delicacy” is like unravelling a complex tapestry. Yes, it revolves around interacting with NPCs and advancing the story as you would in a typical RPG. But fulfilling culinary requests also plays a significant role. Characters have their particular tastes; they know what they want, and they certainly know what they don’t. You’re tasked with crafting dishes to their liking, which means acquiring recipes, sourcing, or growing ingredients, and stocking up on supplies—transforming this into an engaging cooking adventure.

Platforming also comes into play as you traverse this enchanting world. It flirts with a Metroidvania style, as initially, you can’t access every location. Instead, you’ll gradually unlock new areas through items and upgrades—tying back into the RPG elements.

The world of “Magical Delicacy” is not filled with enemies at every turn. Instead, you face occasional hazards, mostly there to up the platforming ante. Thankfully, if you misstep or fall, you won’t face a game over. Instead, you might just find yourself back at the start of a section, which aligns beautifully with the game’s relaxed vibe and is a refreshing change for a genre known for its challenges and dangers.

Admittedly, “Magical Delicacy” didn’t captivate me at first. The blend of RPG dynamics with cooking elements initially felt jarring. However, after spending some time with it, the balance and synergy between these elements began to shine through. The cookery aspect is simplified just enough to work in perfect harmony with the RPG framework, providing an engaging twist without becoming overly complex or immersion-breaking.

Cooking in the game is an exercise in creativity and trial and error. You’re often given an order specifying customer preferences. You’ll have to be cautious—like avoiding spicy ingredients when a dish requires mild flavors. Some recipes offer guidance, while others invite experimentation, encouraging you to discover culinary wonders through exploration.

Equipment plays a key role in crafting your creations; you’ll need the right tools, like an oven for roasting or a mortar for grinding. After acquiring these workstations, the real culinary adventure begins, rewarding experimentation and perfecting recipes for higher-rated dishes.

Speaking of equipment, game controls are another point worth discussing. The game nods to a late ’90s arcade style, with an emphasis on aesthetic and audio design creating a cohesive and immersive experience. Although a gamepad is recommended, you can play comfortably with a keyboard, adding to the game’s accessibility without alienating anyone.

“Magical Delicacy” is the type of game that grows on you over time. It doesn’t immediately demand your attention, but its evolving story and mechanics gradually draw you in. The game’s abundant dialogue might not be everyone’s cup of tea. You’ll encounter many characters, each with its subplot. The dialogue appears through speech bubbles, so if you’re eager to jump straight into gameplay, this could slow you down. However, for those who relish storytelling in RPGs, this feature is a definitive asset.

I did mention some quality-of-life enhancements earlier. None are deal-breakers, but a lack of fast travel can be inconvenient. Sometimes, you want to make a quick pit stop at a shop, yet end up navigating multiple screens instead. Adding character info on the map would also be a nifty feature. You occasionally find yourself wandering, trying to remember where everyone is, and a visual reference could save time. Fortunately, the game’s cartographer might just address these needs later on, providing fresh solutions as the game develops.

All told, I’m genuinely enjoying “Magical Delicacy.” It’s not my usual gaming choice, but the game’s unique blend of genres is both refreshing and absorbing. If you’re looking for a relaxed and explorative experience, diving into this magical world at your own pace, there’s a lot to savor here. But if you’re after non-stop action, this might not be the adventure for you.

This review is based on a retail copy provided by the publisher.

In conclusion, “Magical Delicacy” is a delightful fusion of different genres, despite a few minor tweaks needed here and there. The story may progress slowly at times, but for platform and RPG fans who enjoy setting their own gaming pace, it stands as a robust addition to their collections. If you seek a game that offers a more frenetic experience, though, you might want to explore other options.