8 Comments
my kid thought it was gonna be boring and now he won’t stop delivering “mail” to random bugs
you either get it or you don’t - and if you get it, you LOVE it
I got stuck once and didn’t even care, was just bouncing around collecting fruit and chillin
- @amxyy Apr 24
yup, even getting lost in this game feels like a feature not a bug
ok but real talk… is it hard to control?
this game should not work and yet… it’s one of the most charming things I’ve ever played
Good to know:
- Direct Download
- Sale ends: 5/14/25
- Rating: 5 of 5
About this item:
- Pinball-platforming hybrid with open-world exploration.
- Developed by Villa Gorilla, blending action with light puzzle-solving.
- Play as Yoku, a dung beetle tasked with delivering mail across a tropical island.
- Traverse the island using pinball mechanics instead of traditional jumping.
- Non-linear progression with upgrades and secrets hidden across diverse biomes.
- Hand-painted visuals and relaxing music create a laid-back atmosphere.
Game Details:
- Developer: Villa Gorilla
- Publisher: Team17
- Release Date: May 29, 2018
- Genre: Platformer, Pinball, Adventure
- Modes: Single-player
- Platform: Nintendo Switch
YouTube:
Yoku's Island Express for Nintendo Switch: Should You Buy It?
Highlights and Advantages:
- Unique blend of Metroidvania exploration and pinball mechanics creates a fresh and engaging gameplay experience.
- Charming hand-drawn art style and relaxing soundtrack provide a captivating atmosphere.
- A well-paced and satisfying adventure with a good length for its price point.
Similars:
- Hollow Knight: Offers a deeper, more challenging Metroidvania experience with a larger world and more complex combat.
- SteamWorld Dig 2: Features similar digging/exploration mechanics but with a different setting and steampunk aesthetic.
- Environmental Station Alpha: Presents a unique take on the genre with puzzle elements woven into the exploration.
What You Need to Know Before Buying:
Before purchasing Yoku's Island Express, consider your preference for game difficulty and pacing. While generally relaxing, some sections can be challenging. Ensure your Nintendo Switch has enough storage space for the game download or cartridge.
Extra Tips:
- Watch some gameplay videos to get a better feel for the unique pinball mechanics.
- Read reviews from other players to gauge their experience with the game's difficulty and length.
- Check if the game's art style and soundtrack appeal to your personal preferences.
- Consider if you enjoy games that blend different genres in unconventional ways.
- Explore reviews focusing on the game's story and narrative to see if it aligns with your tastes.
Level up your savings. It's free.
8 Comments
my kid thought it was gonna be boring and now he won’t stop delivering “mail” to random bugs
this is what happens when game devs actually have fun making games, zero stress, full joy
you either get it or you don’t - and if you get it, you LOVE it
I got stuck once and didn’t even care, was just bouncing around collecting fruit and chillin
yup, even getting lost in this game feels like a feature not a bug
ok but real talk… is it hard to control?
this game should not work and yet… it’s one of the most charming things I’ve ever played
platforming with pinball physics? who greenlit this genius?