htoL#NiQ: The Firefly Diary is a visually breathtaking puzzle-platformer with a unique art style. Set in a dark and mysterious world, the game follows the story of a young girl named Mion who is guided by two fireflies, Lumen and Umbra. With its striking hand-drawn visuals and hauntingly atmospheric soundtrack, the game truly immerses players into its eerie ambiance.
However, despite its captivating aesthetic, htoL#NiQ falls short in terms of gameplay mechanics. The game revolves around solving puzzles and navigating through treacherous environments. Players control Mion by controlling the two fireflies, each one responsible for different abilities. While the concept is intriguing, the controls can be frustratingly imprecise, leading to numerous instances of trial and error.
One aspect of the game that can be both mesmerizing and frustrating is the permadeath system. Mion is vulnerable to the dangers of the world, and if she dies, players are forced to restart from the beginning of the level. This adds a level of tension and urgency, but it can also become tedious and repetitive, especially when combined with the imprecise controls.
Furthermore, the level design in htoL#NiQ can be confusing and convoluted. Navigating through the various puzzles and traps often feels more like a chore than an enjoyable experience. The lack of clear guidance or hints can leave players feeling frustrated and lost, detracting from the overall enjoyment of the game.
Despite its flaws, htoL#NiQ: The Firefly Diary manages to captivate players with its hauntingly beautiful visuals and enchanting soundtrack. The story, though minimalistic, is intriguing and keeps players engaged. However, the frustrating controls, unforgiving permadeath system, and confusing level design hold the game back from reaching its full potential.
Overall, htoL#NiQ: The Firefly Diary earns a rating of 6 out of 10. While it is commendable for its artistic achievements, the lackluster gameplay mechanics hinder the overall experience. It is a game that will likely appeal to those who value aesthetics over gameplay, but it may leave others feeling frustrated and unsatisfied.
