Under the Island

The main pros of the game

• Nostalgic Charm: The game successfully captures the essence of classic 2D Zelda titles, particularly "Link's Awakening" and "A Link to the Past," appealing to fans of retro gaming.
• Engaging Exploration: Players enjoy a rich world filled with secrets, rewarding curiosity and exploration without excessive handholding (e.g., no quest markers).
• Art and Sound Design: The pixel art is vibrant and well-executed, complemented by a catchy soundtrack that enhances the overall experience.
• Satisfying Progression: Players appreciate the rewarding progression system, where collecting upgrades and unlocking new abilities feels meaningful.
• Variety of Puzzles and Mechanics: The game features a good mix of puzzles and unique gameplay mechanics, keeping the experience fresh and engaging.
• Accessible for New Players: The game is seen as a good entry point for those new to action-adventure games, providing a balance of challenge and enjoyment.

The main cons of the game

• Lack of Difficulty: Many players feel the game is too easy, with simple combat and puzzles that may not satisfy those looking for a challenge.
• Story Execution: The narrative and character development, particularly involving the protagonist Nia and her companion Avocado, could be more fleshed out and impactful.
• Minor Technical Issues: Some players experienced bugs, including collision issues and occasional crashes, although updates have been made to address these.
• Short Length: The game is perceived as relatively short (around 10-15 hours), which may leave some players wanting more content.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Map and Navigation Improvements: Players expressed a desire for better map features, such as markers for unopened chests or undiscovered areas, to aid in exploration.
• More Boss Fights: Some reviewers noted that the game could benefit from additional boss encounters to enhance the challenge and excitement.
• More Complex Combat Mechanics: Users wished for a deeper combat system with more variety in abilities and items, as some felt the current mechanics were somewhat simplistic.
• NPC Guidance: A request for in-game guides or hints to assist players in finding secrets and completing quests was noted, as some found the exploration aspect a bit overwhelming without direction.

Summary

• Overall, "Under The Island" is celebrated for its nostalgic charm and engaging gameplay, while also facing critiques regarding its difficulty and narrative depth. The game appeals to fans of classic action-adventure games, particularly those who enjoy exploration and puzzle-solving.

Summary generated on: March 16, 2026