ONLY WAY IS DOWN [PC Game Review]

In a delightful fusion of feline charm and platforming challenge, ONLY WAY IS DOWN has made its debut on Steam, developed and published by Jilted Generation Productions. This engaging game invites players to guide a mischievous cat that has unwittingly settled down for a nap atop construction materials on a skyscraper under construction. The objective? Navigate the kitty back down to safety, traversing beams, ledges, and precarious platforms along the way.

Gameplay Mechanics and Customization

Players will find themselves controlling the agile feline, equipped with nine lives to cushion against the inevitable missteps that come with navigating a construction site. The game offers a rich customization experience, allowing players to select their cat’s coat color, eye color, and even its body type—whether a slender or chubby kitty. Accessories like hats and glasses can be unlocked through gameplay, adding an extra layer of motivation to explore the environment.

As players descend, they must balance caution with confidence. The game’s mechanics encourage careful movement, especially when faced with challenging corners and narrow ledges. A helpful feature allows players to slow down their cat’s movements, facilitating precise navigation. However, the risk of falling remains ever-present, and the sight of the cat tumbling off a ledge can be disheartening, even if the game opts for a lighthearted approach to its consequences.

For those who find the default ragdoll fall unsettling, the developers have thoughtfully included an option to change the fall animation to a more whimsical dissolve effect, where the cat transforms into petals upon falling. This adjustment caters to the sensibilities of players who prefer a less distressing experience.

Levels and Replayability

The game’s structure is straightforward, with the primary goal being to reach the ground. However, players will encounter multiple rooms and pathways that add complexity to their descent. A hint button is available, illuminating the correct path and preventing unnecessary detours. This feature is especially useful for those looking to optimize their gameplay experience.

Replayability is a key aspect of ONLY WAY IS DOWN, with various difficulty modes catering to different player preferences. Casual and Easy modes offer more forgiving checkpoints, while Normal, Insane, and No Chance modes ramp up the challenge significantly, appealing to competitive players eager to climb the online leaderboards. The controls are responsive, allowing for fluid movement that feels authentic, and players can even make their cat meow on command, adding a touch of whimsy to the experience.

Visuals and Soundtrack

The game’s visuals are complemented by a soothing piano soundtrack, enhancing the overall atmosphere as players navigate the bustling city skyline from their lofty perch. However, the sound effects associated with the cat’s falls may evoke mixed feelings, as the chorus of ‘ahhh ah-ahhhh’ can be jarring for some, especially after repeated failures.

While testing ONLY WAY IS DOWN on the Steam Deck, some players may encounter display issues, with the resolution appearing skewed. It’s anticipated that future updates will address these concerns, ensuring a smoother gameplay experience across all platforms.

For cat enthusiasts and fans of challenging platformers alike, ONLY WAY IS DOWN presents an engaging blend of humor and skill. With its replayable nature and the allure of unlocking new accessories, players will find themselves drawn back to the game, eager to refine their skills and conquer the heights of this whimsical construction site.