Flynn: Son of Crimson

Flynn: Son of Crimson is an action-packed Metroidvania-style RPG set in the fantasy land of Rosantica. Players take on the role of Flynn, who must save his companion Dex and the world from the ancient evil known as The Scourge. The game features engaging combat mechanics, a mix of weapons and magic, and a non-linear progression system that allows players to explore multiple paths and uncover hidden relics.

Flynn: Son of Crimson: Review

Introduction

Flynn: Son of Crimson, developed by Studio Thunderhorse and published by Humble Games, is a hidden gem in the crowded indie action-platformer genre. Released in 2021, this game blends nostalgic pixel art with modern gameplay mechanics, creating a unique and engaging experience. Drawing from the rich legacy of 90s platformers like Super Mario World and The Legend of Zelda, Flynn: Son of Crimson carves out its own identity with a compelling narrative, deep combat mechanics, and a vibrant world to explore. This review will delve into the game’s development history, narrative depth, gameplay mechanics, world-building, reception, and legacy, ultimately assessing its place in video game history.

Development History & Context

Studio Thunderhorse, a small indie studio, began developing Flynn: Son of Crimson in late 2016 after working on two smaller iOS games. The project started as a sprawling metroidvania but was later shifted to a more straightforward, stage-based design to focus on level design and progression without in-level backtracking. This pivot was a significant turning point, allowing the team to refine the gameplay and ensure a polished experience.

The game’s development was crowdfunded via Kickstarter in October 2017, raising over $63,000. The successful campaign allowed the team to continue development, culminating in a partnership with Humble Games in July 2019. This partnership provided the necessary funding to bring the game to fruition. Flynn: Son of Crimson was released on September 15, 2021, on multiple platforms, including Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch.

The game’s development was influenced by classic titles like Super Mario World, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Shovel Knight, and Hollow Knight. These inspirations are evident in the game’s level design, combat mechanics, and overall aesthetic. The team’s dedication to creating a rich, immersive experience is apparent in the game’s detailed pixel art, engaging soundtrack, and well-crafted levels.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Flynn: Son of Crimson tells the story of Flynn, a young boy who discovers his latent Crimson powers after an attack on his mythical dog companion, Dex. The game’s narrative is told through NPC dialogue and short, comic-like images, eschewing traditional cutscenes. This approach allows players to uncover the story at their own pace, adding a layer of discovery and immersion.

The game’s central conflict revolves around the ancient evil known as The Scourge, which has begun infesting the land of Rosantica. Flynn must save Rosantica and restore Dex’s stolen guardian spirits. The narrative explores themes of discovery, conflict, and the bond between Flynn and Dex. The story is simple but effective, with well-written characters and a compelling arc for Flynn.

One of the game’s standout narrative elements is its use of environmental storytelling. Players uncover the lore of Rosantica and Flynn’s past through interactions with NPCs and exploration of the game’s world. This approach rewards curiosity and encourages players to engage with the game’s richly detailed setting.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Flynn: Son of Crimson features fast-paced combat with a wealth of hard-hitting attack combos. Players can collect Crimson gems to unlock and upgrade new skills, accommodating various playstyles. The game includes over 40 unique stages, each with varying challenges and mechanics.

The combat system is the game’s standout feature, offering a deep and engaging experience. Players can switch between three different weapons: the sword, axe, and claws, each with unique strengths and weaknesses. The sword is balanced, the axe trades speed for power, and the claws allow for fast, rapid attacks and air combos. This variety ensures that combat remains dynamic and engaging throughout the game.

In addition to melee combat, players can use ranged magic attacks, which are unlimited but weaker than melee attacks. These magic attacks can be charged for increased power and upgraded with elemental effects, including ice, electric, and fire. The ice magic can freeze enemies in place, the electric magic can zap multiple enemies rapidly, and the fire magic can gradually burn enemies.

The game also introduces a stun meter, which allows players to build up a yellow gauge above the enemy until it becomes stunned. This mechanic adds a strategic layer to combat, encouraging players to time their attacks and defenses carefully.

Progression in Flynn: Son of Crimson is non-linear, with multiple paths open to players at various points. However, certain areas are closed off until players gain specific abilities or skills. This design choice ensures that players are constantly discovering new areas and abilities, keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging.

One of the game’s unique features is the “Scourge levels,” which are harder versions of previously completed levels. These levels offer a new challenge and encourage players to revisit old areas with their upgraded skills. While some players may find these levels repetitive, they add a layer of replayability and mastery to the game.

World-Building, Art & Sound

Flynn: Son of Crimson’s world, Rosantica, is a beautifully crafted 2D environment filled with ancient mysteries and unique regions. The game’s pixel art is a standout feature, with detailed animations and vibrant colors that evoke the golden age of the SNES. The environments are meticulously designed, with foreground and background elements that create a sense of depth and immersion.

The game’s soundtrack, composed by Jacob Lincke, complements the visuals perfectly. Each area has its unique musical theme, enhancing the atmosphere and immersion. The soundtrack ranges from upbeat and energetic to somber and mysterious, reflecting the game’s various environments and moods.

The sound design is equally impressive, with crisp and satisfying sound effects that enhance the gameplay. The combination of visual and auditory elements creates a cohesive and immersive experience that draws players into the world of Rosantica.

Reception & Legacy

Flynn: Son of Crimson received generally favorable reviews upon its release, with critics praising its gameplay, art style, and range of puzzles and weapons. The game’s Metacritic score is 81, indicating a positive reception from critics. Players also appreciated the game’s tight controls, engaging combat, and beautiful pixel art.

However, some reviewers noted that the game causes players to backtrack unnecessarily and that the adventure is relatively short. Despite these criticisms, Flynn: Son of Crimson has been praised for its excellent controls, great level design, and immersive world.

The game’s legacy is marked by its influence on subsequent indie action-platformers. Its blend of classic and modern gameplay mechanics has inspired other developers to create similarly engaging experiences. The game’s success has also led to physical releases on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4, further cementing its place in the indie gaming landscape.

Conclusion

Flynn: Son of Crimson is a standout title in the action-platformer genre, offering a rich and engaging experience that blends classic and modern gameplay elements. Its deep combat mechanics, beautiful pixel art, and immersive world make it a must-play for fans of the genre. While the game’s narrative is simple, it is effectively told through environmental storytelling and NPC interactions, adding depth to the gameplay.

The game’s reception has been largely positive, with critics and players alike praising its tight controls, engaging combat, and beautiful visuals. Despite some criticisms regarding backtracking and length, Flynn: Son of Crimson remains a hidden gem that deserves recognition.

In conclusion, Flynn: Son of Crimson is a testament to the power of indie game development, offering a unique and engaging experience that stands out in a crowded genre. Its place in video game history is secure, and its influence on subsequent titles is a testament to its quality and innovation. For those seeking a compelling action-platformer with deep combat mechanics and a richly detailed world, Flynn: Son of Crimson is a must-play.