Loddlenaut

Genre: Open-World Action-RPG

Players: 1

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Review:

Loddlenaut, released in 2023 on PC and ported to Nintendo Switch in 2024, is an underwater Open-World Action-RPG that combines the cleanup-focused gameplay of PowerWash Simulator and the environmentalist themes and family-friendly presentation of Island Saver, in a game where players take the role of an underwater explorer in the future hired by a corporation to clean up their own mess, a premise that makes it clear this is far into the realm of science fiction.

Loddlenaut’s presentation makes use of simple, colorful cartoony 3D visuals seen through one of a few optional pixelation filters. While unimpressive on a technical level, the appealing art style and diversity nevertheless keeps this game looking visually interesting throughout.

These visuals are backed by soothing synth and piano themes that perfectly fit the game’s underwater environments and relaxed gameplay, with three versions of most tracks depending on how clean you’ve gotten the particular area. Good examples include the Menu Theme, A Loddlenaut’s Home, Flotsam Flats (Clean), Tangle Bay (Recovering), and A Loddle’s Home.

The gameplay has players exploring the undersea environment, segmented into a half dozen or so different regions, and using a “bubble gun” to zap purple sludge contaminating the area, while also collecting trash strewn about. The trash can be helpfully brought back to the central area and sorted into one of various receptacles that turn these into raw materials that can then be used to upgrade and expand your abilities, enhancing your gun, your underwater jet pack, and your oxygen capacity, among other things.

Yes, one of relatively few points of stress in this game comes from the need to manage your oxygen, though even when you’re far from your oxygenated home base you’ll usually be able to find helpful flora in each area which, when cleaned, produce bubbles that can slowly replenish your oxygen.

Overall, the game loop here is pretty relaxed and enjoyable, giving you the same satisfaction of cleaning up an area that you get from PowerWash Simulator, only to turn around and cash in the junk you collected to get better gear and then be even more effective at cleaning. There’s a decent amount of variety too, with players given the ability to nurture plants in patches of soil and find homes for “loddles”, little fish that follow you around like a puppy.

When it comes to complaints, the few issues I have are relatively minor. The gameplay can be a tad repetitive at times, some gameplay mechanics are not properly explained, and overall this game can be completed within a matter of a few hours.

Still, while it lasts, Loddlenaut is a wonderful, soothing, and accessible game that balances its gameplay elements well. If that appeals to you, I think you’ll find this game to be well worth picking up.

tl;dr – Loddlenaut is a family-friendly Open-World Action-RPG that has players exploring and cleaning up underwater environments, then recycling the junk they collected to upgrade their gear. This is a short but relaxing and satisfying experience with compelling gameplay, and if its topic matter appeals to you, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Grade: B+

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This game has been nominated for one or more of eShopperReviews 2024 Game Awards:

Runner-Up: Best Action-RPG, Best Game for Kids and Casual Players

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