Twilight Monk

Twilight Monk is a visually stunning, hand-drawn metroidvania from Aquatic Moon, led by industry veteran Trent Kaniuga. Its beautiful art style and atmospheric setting, inspired by Kaniuga's graphic novels, immediately stand out. The platforming controls are responsive, and the game offers a short, sweet experience that doesn't overstay its welcome. The story, while based on the graphic novels, is accessible to newcomers, maintaining a good pace and simple yet effective plot.

However, the combat is simplistic, relying heavily on a single forward-swinging attack with limited upgrades. The grappling hook mechanic can also feel finicky. While the ambient music enhances the immersive atmosphere, the overall difficulty is low, making it less appealing to hardcore metroidvania fans seeking a significant challenge.

Despite its combat limitations and easier difficulty, "Twilight Monk" shines in its art, atmosphere, and solid platforming. It's recommended for those who enjoy visually rich, more relaxed metroidvanias or fans of classic platformers looking to get back into the genre. The witty and concise dialogue further enhances the comic book feel.