I got completely drawn in by Promenade when I tried out the demo a month ago, but after playing through the full game to completion, I’m blown away by this incredibly imaginative 2D collectathon puzzle-platformer due to the creative level themes that burst in with decent platforming challenges or fun exploration to keep the level design consistently strong and smooth character controls that made movement such a joy throughout this game. The cherry on top is the beautiful storybook visuals that add to the overall charm.

I do have a couple of gripes about this game, though. The basic story is a bit confusing, and the falling stun animation can disrupt the smooth flow of movement. Some tasks weren't very enjoyable, but as long as most of them are fun and don't drag on like in Super Mario Odyssey, I can tolerate a few less exciting ones. However, it's still important to acknowledge the growing pains of collectathon platformers despite this one being 2D.

This game's hotchpotch of ideas that shouldn't work somehow comes together to make something that is familiar on the surface level, but the way it constructs each of these components from various different games to make such a seamless experience is impressive work by Holy Cap Studio. I was getting vibes of Super Mario 63 (remember that fan game?) and the Klonoa GBA games. If that makes you curious, play this game already. I can't recommend it enough, and what a hidden gem that will likely be in my top games of the year.