An exceptional example of small scale indie gaming

In spite of a handful of minor annoyances, Kaipuu mixes a great concept with relaxed, casual gameplay to craft a solid independent gaming experience in the same vein as games like Within a Deep Forest.

GRAPHICS - While minimal, the graphics in Kaipuu display a consistent quality unique to the game that fits the overall theme. Five stars.

SOUND - Music, while not unique to the game, is generally good, though the cloud theme feels a somewhat out of place compared to the well-fitting environmental tracks of the other areas. Sound effects are few and generally well fitting, though the bat sound and bird egg breaking sound could stand to be replaced. Four stars overall.

GAMEPLAY - Gameplay is basic and mostly well polished, though the character often handles poorly. Input resets when transitioning from one area to another and requires that the key be released and then pressed again when the transition finishes. While seemingly minor, this effect was distracting and -- more often than not -- frustrating, especially when attempting to transition between areas by, e.g., wall jumping.

Speaking of wall jumping, I found this to be another case where the character handled poorly. Standing on the ground near a wall and attempting to turn around often resulted in my character catapulting himself down into some nearly bottomless pit, which I would then be forced to climb back out of. Simply disallowing wall jumps while standing on solid ground would have prevented this annoyance.

Finally, and less importantly, double jumps do NOT require the key to be released and pressed again, which again often resulted in unintentional double jumps, though they rarely caused much grief. None of these issues hindered gameplay significantly however, so the overall rating remains four stars.

STORY - One area where Kaipuu really shines, the storyline evokes a variety of emotions, and manages to create a final "boss" that I found to be far more difficult than any traditional challenge, despite requiring no reflexes or fast thinking. A true accomplishment. Five stars.

INTERFACE - There is essentially no interface, however the map screen is functional and a welcome addition to the game. Yet it doesn't offer the option of reviewing descriptions for already collected emotions, which makes reviewing the controls during the game impossible. Pay close attention to the text you're given when collecting emotion spheres, lest you find yourself unable to complete the game! Four stars.


While not for everyone, the unique storyline and meticulously crafted levels command respect. In summary, anyone who loved Within a Deep Forest will also enjoy Kaipuu.