Baby Steps, the latest creation from the minds of Bennett Foddy, Gabe Cuzzillo, and Maxi Boch, has officially launched, inviting players into a whimsical yet maddening world where a clumsy character attempts to ascend a mountain. The reception has been nearly unanimous, with critics echoing sentiments of frustration and amusement. The frequent appearance of the word “hate” in reviews might suggest a negative experience, yet it is often accompanied by a sense of admiration for the game’s unique charm.
PC Gamer’s Jody Macgregor offers a glimpse into the mixed reactions, highlighting that while some players may struggle with the game’s pacing and mechanics, the overall experience is designed to provoke both rage and laughter. GamesRadar’s Luke Kemp notes the lengthy pauses between challenges, which can test even the most patient players. Despite this, he acknowledges that overcoming the game’s inherent difficulties yields a satisfying reward, with the environment filled with delightful surprises waiting to be discovered.
One of the most hilariously infuriating journeys it has ever been my pleasure to rage through
IGN’s Travis Northrup shares a contrasting perspective, awarding Baby Steps a commendable 9/10. He describes the game as a “triumphantly quirky physics game” that challenges players to master its mechanics. Northrup’s experience is one of relentless pursuit, where each failure only fuels his determination to conquer the game’s obstacles.
You may or may not need to pick up some cigarettes along the way for a gaggle of donkey men with enormous, swinging dicks
Polygon’s review, while lacking a formal score, offers a memorable quote that captures the game’s eccentricity. Eurogamer’s Robert Purchese emphasizes the importance of coping with frustration, suggesting that the game is more forgiving than it may initially appear. He acknowledges that while Baby Steps can be exasperating, it remains a distinctive experience in the gaming landscape.
I can’t explain Baby Steps, but I can recommend it
TheGamer’s Sam Hallahan reflects on his journey through Baby Steps, describing it as one of his most significant gaming accomplishments. Despite some humor falling flat, he finds the experience worth the investment of time and patience, labeling it a standout title of the year.
We relished it all
Push Square’s Stephen Tailby warns that the game’s unconventional dialogue and gameplay may not resonate with everyone. However, he praises its narrative depth and the satisfaction derived from its challenging gameplay, calling it a “rage-bait game” that ultimately rewards perseverance.
Hiking is hell
Khee Hoon Chan from The Verge expresses a begrudging appreciation for the game’s take on hiking, contrasting it with other titles that portray the activity as serene. In Baby Steps, players navigate not just treacherous terrains but also the awkwardness of their character’s movements, creating a unique experience that stands apart from the genre.
A brainrot-infused adaptation of Sisyphus
ShackNews’ Lucas White, while rating the game a 7/10, shares a more critical view, recounting his struggle with the final challenge. He describes the experience as a blend of misery and stubbornness, ultimately feeling hollow after achieving success. This sentiment echoes the mixed feelings many players have expressed.
Entirely too cringe, stupid, or mean without any real payoff
Not all reviews are glowing, as Ethan Krieger from DualShockers delivers a scathing critique, comparing the game unfavorably to the cult classic film The Room. He finds the mechanics uninspired and the humor lacking, suggesting that Baby Steps may not be for everyone.
Despite the varied responses, the game has garnered a positive reception from users on Steam, with 91% of the early reviews being favorable. This suggests that while Baby Steps may not be universally adored, it has certainly struck a chord with a dedicated audience eager to embrace its quirky challenges.
