If you’ve been living under a rock since 2009, Trine is a fantasy action/puzzle/platformer where you must guide three characters through a bunch of levels. Each character has their own set of skills and powers, and they must combine to get through a series of challenges and enemies. The game has been released on numerous platforms over the last nine years, but this is the first time it’s appeared on a handheld console.
Its 2D visuals haven’t aged a day – it was as beautiful back then as it still is today. The environments and backgrounds are detailed, with glowing effects that really make things pop. Combine all this with the music, sound effects and narrator, and it does a splendid job of creating an immersive storybook feel.
The game can be played with one to three players. All three options are very playable – with one or two players you’re able to switch characters at will, whereas with three players each person gets their own role and you must work together to figure out how to get through the level. The game is much better – and more challenging – with three people. In single player you can often just use the thief to quickly traverse levels and completely miss the point and design of a puzzle, but this isn’t possible when more players join the game.
Where the game really shines is in its use of physics. There’s a lot of fun to be had here, especially using the wizard’s box creation and levitation skills. This combined with the attempt to work as a team leads to some often hilarious outcomes. However, the physics can also be mildly annoying at times, with some objects just refusing to move in the way you need them to.
It’s not the best game in the series, and with the rest of the games due out soon, the option is there to hold out for the improved sequel. However, it’s still a decent game with plenty to offer in its own right. With three players, Trine is as good as it’s ever been, and it’s also a very unique experience. Nintendo Switch is becoming the best place for local multiplayer, and Trine feels right at home in that library.
TRINE: ENCHANTED EDITION / DEVELOPER: FROZENBYTE / PUBLISHER: FROZENBYTE / PLATFORM: NINTENDO SWITCH (REVIEWED), PC, PLAYSTATION 4 / RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW
