(Klonoa: Door to Phantomile)

I've wanted to get into this series for so long, so I was very happy to get this collection. Finally got around to playing Klonoa 1 all the way to the end, and did unlock the bonus level as well. I was unfortunately already aware of the ending, so that did lose some of its impact for me but still a unique and heart-wrenching ending for a game like this.

The accessibility options were nice, but I did most of my playthrough on normal. I only found myself switching to easy for the final level, due to my only main gripe with this game-- the knockback when Klonoa takes damage which I found to be frustrating. I found myself getting sent plummeting during tight platforming sections because of that knockback. I do kinda wish the game had the option to play without a life counter but keeping the default amount of hearts.

I don't think I had my mind blown like I was hoping to with this game, but I think that might be more because of how long I'd wanted to give it a try. Nonetheless, it is very charming and I love how it's a 2.5D game that takes advantage of the added z-axis. Would definitely recommend if you have any interest.