Created by Hal Laboratory, the studio behind Kirby and Super Smash Bros, Boxboy! is intriguing not only as a unique puzzle platformer but one that stands in stark contrast to the saccharine, colourful worlds of the developer’s previous games, for this is a visually basic, monochrome experience that wouldn’t look out of place on the original Game Boy.
Its simplistic look is deceptive, however. Players control a box with legs that can create other boxes (how many depends on the level). Their purpose is to create shapes with these boxes to navigate through the game’s more than 20 worlds and 150-plus levels. The latter can be completed in a matter of seconds, with each world introducing new elements – from conveyor belts to lasers – in order to keep the gameplay fresh.
The main story worlds are gratifying without being especially taxing, while there are bonus worlds available for those wanting a sterner test. It may have a rudimentary exterior, but Boxboy! is as compulsive, charming and inventive as Hal’s more celebrated franchises.
