REVIEW / Cryptical Path on PC

There’s a certain magic to gaming that develops over time, turning the act of playing into something almost instinctual. It’s curious, really. After playing games for so long, I can usually tell within the first ten minutes if it’s going to be something I enjoy. It’s not merely about preference either. Even games outside my usual genre can capture my attention, if they have that special something. And you know what? My first impressions are rarely wrong. This intuition is why I firmly believe that you don’t need to finish a game to review it fairly. If it can’t win you over in the first hour, it’s unlikely to do so after five. Take “Cryptical Path” on PC, for example. The moment I completed the tutorial, I was hooked. As we delve deeper, I’ll explain why I feel this might be the standout game of 2025, and it’s only the beginning of the year.

In “Cryptical Path,” you’re cast as The Architect, tasked with overseeing the Hexium—a prison under your complete control, or so it should have been. Problems arise when a doppelganger seizes control, not only impersonating you but also displeased with your intrusion. As if that’s not enough, this double has also unleashed all the prisoners, transforming them in mysterious ways. Now, you must harness every ounce of your power to prevent a potential catastrophe. With another force roaming the halls, mirroring your abilities, maintaining order will be anything but easy.

The game sets itself apart as a unique roguelite. Here, you’re not just following a set map; you’re actively constructing it as you explore. As The Architect, you shape the Hexium, determining the layout of its rooms and the creatures that inhabit them. Yet, the twist comes from the doppelganger’s meddling, which throws unpredictable challenges your way. You wield significant power, but not absolute power, and that’s somehow unsettling when it’s supposed to be your domain.

Building in “Cryptical Path” isn’t straightforward. Creating rooms is crucial, but it comes at a cost. Your control points—essentially your ability to manage the prison—are limited. Overstretch them, and you’ll invite curses that might start as minor annoyances but can quickly escalate if you’re not careful. It’s a game about strategy and knowing your limits.

At its essence, “Cryptical Path” might sound like another platform-based roguelite. But it doesn’t just blend in with the genre; it stands out because of its style and meticulous design. The attention to detail and love poured into this game is evident, making it hard not to fall for its charms.

The aesthetic of “Cryptical Path” is reminiscent of the best ’90s cartoons, striking a balance between edgy and accessible. Imagine if Adult Swim turned a long-running series into a video game—captivating both seasoned players and attracting younger ones with the vibrancy of its world. If this were a new TV series, I’d be glued to every episode. The narrative is engaging, the characters lively, and above all, the journey is thoroughly enjoyable.

One aspect worth mentioning is the controls. While many PC games suggest using a controller for convenience, it’s not a must with every game. However, for “Cryptical Path,” a controller significantly improves accuracy. Though it’s playable with a mouse and keyboard, control just isn’t as smooth. It doesn’t detract from the experience, but it’s a consideration to keep in mind.

As I sift through the experience of “Cryptical Path,” I’m genuinely at a loss for criticisms. It’s rare when reviewing games to find so little to fault. If you’re a fan of platformers or roguelites, you owe it to yourself to give this one a try. It’s not a game trying to reinvent the wheel, but rather one that exemplifies what developers can achieve with a clear vision and commitment to quality.

To wrap things up, I honestly can’t find a negative point to end on, so I’ll leave it here. “Cryptical Path” absolutely screams for a console version. Its charm would undoubtedly resonate with PlayStation, Xbox, and Switch players alike. The Architect is a character that I’d love to see become an enduring part of gaming lore, and this game could very well be the start of something extraordinary. Truly remarkable throughout—it’s a must-play!