Vexed: A Platformer Steeped in Time Travel Shenanigans and Chaotic Puzzles!

Ah, platformers. That delightful genre that has us leaping over chasms, dodging projectiles, and collecting shiny trinkets for untold hours of entertainment. Within this expansive world of pixelated jumping and acrobatic feats resides a hidden gem called “Vexed,” a game that throws in time travel and mind-bending puzzles to spice things up. Developed by the indie studio Nicalis and originally released on the Wii U, “Vexed” is now available for multiple platforms, inviting players of all stripes to experience its unique brand of platforming madness.

A Tale Twisted Through Time

At the heart of “Vexed” lies a narrative about a quirky, bespectacled character named Vex, who finds himself flung through time thanks to the machinations of his nemesis, The Professor (a villain with an appropriately theatrical flair). The Professor’s nefarious scheme involves rewriting history for personal gain – talk about a bad case of historical revisionism! Vex, however, is determined to stop him and restore the temporal timeline to its proper order.

This narrative backdrop sets the stage for Vex’s adventures across a diverse range of eras and environments. From prehistoric jungles teeming with dinosaurs to futuristic megacities buzzing with hovercars, each level throws new challenges and visual delights at the player. The game expertly weaves its time travel theme into the gameplay mechanics, allowing Vex to interact with past versions of himself to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles. Imagine using your future self to activate a switch for your present self – it’s as wonderfully absurd as it sounds!

Puzzle-Platforming Perfection?

“Vexed” is not just about bouncing around levels; it throws some seriously brain-bending puzzles into the mix. Players must use Vex’s time-traveling abilities to manipulate objects, create paths, and unlock new areas. The game cleverly introduces new puzzle mechanics as you progress, keeping things fresh and challenging without feeling overwhelming.

Here are a few examples of the ingenious puzzle elements found in “Vexed”:

These are just a few examples of the clever puzzle design that permeates “Vexed.” The game consistently challenges players to think creatively and utilize their understanding of temporal mechanics.

Visual Charm and Aural Delights

“Vexed” boasts a vibrant and charming art style reminiscent of classic platformers. The characters are expressive, the environments are detailed and varied, and the overall aesthetic exudes a sense of whimsical fun. Complementing the visuals is a catchy soundtrack that blends upbeat tunes with atmospheric melodies.

The sound design further enhances the gameplay experience, with satisfying sound effects for jumps, attacks, and puzzle solutions.

A Vexing Good Time!

“Vexed,” while not widely known, stands out as a gem among platformers. Its unique time travel mechanics, challenging puzzles, and charming presentation make it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a seasoned platformer veteran or a newcomer looking for something fresh and engaging, “Vexed” is sure to deliver a delightful and vexing (in the best way possible!) good time.