Updated
Updated · Nintendo World Report · Jun 17
The Adventures of Elliot Wins Positive Review, Delivering a Sub-15-Hour Zelda-Like on Switch 2
Updated
Updated · Nintendo World Report · Jun 17

The Adventures of Elliot Wins Positive Review, Delivering a Sub-15-Hour Zelda-Like on Switch 2

3 articles · Updated · Nintendo World Report · Jun 17

Summary

  • Square Enix’s HD-2D action-adventure earns a strong review for translating classic 2D Zelda-style exploration into a new series, with the critic calling it enjoyable despite visible flaws.
  • Four eras of the same world expand a compact map with sidequests, temples and weapon upgrades, while Elliot’s bombs, boomerang and chain sickle keep combat flexible and satisfying.
  • Under 15 hours to credits, the game still pushes replay through multiple endings and hidden secrets, with fully voiced side stories singled out as a major draw.
  • Repetitive dungeons, repeated mini-bosses and a shallow Magicite upgrade system weaken the second half, and one accessory can undercut companion Faie’s usefulness.
  • Switch 2 presentation and docked performance stand out, though the review notes a softlock and handheld frame drops, leaving a promising debut that falls short of top Zelda entries.

Insights

Can Square Enix's action RPG debut truly escape the legendary shadow of Zelda?
Why does a retro-inspired game struggle on the powerful new Nintendo Switch 2?
Is the popular HD-2D art style becoming a crutch for repetitive game design?