Super Chariot is a game full of hidden gems. In essence the game is also a hidden gem. Originally released as Chariot in 2014, this game got lost under the rug. It came out on every possible gaming platform at the time but didn’t make a lot of impact on the audience. The reviews were still buzzing but the big audience wasn’t reached. Frima Studio decided it was time to relaunch the game for the Nintendo Switch. This time they added the Royal Gadget DLC and called it Super Chariot.
The king is dead, long live the king!
Super Chariot lets you play as a princess whose dad, the king, just passed away. It’s your task to find a final resting place fitting for a king. As you arrive at the first burial place, the king’s ghost appears and tells you he’s not happy. This starts you off on a quest through mines, dark caves, and other dangerous underground terrains, in search of gems and the ideal final resting place for the king.
Physics-based 2D platformer
Super Chariot consists of 25 maze-like levels where you need to push or pull the chariot with your deceased father. All while collecting as many treasures as you can to please the arrogant dead king’s ghost. You have a rope that attached to one of the wheels of the chariot, so you can pull it up platforms. A simple idea but very well developed with a perfect physics engine. By introducing new things along the way, you never grow tired of the concept.
Solo adventure or co-op
While the game can be played and finished solo as the heroic princess, it’s actually designed to play with two players. A friend can join in as the fiancé to help along the way. If planned right, you can really make it much easier to reach certain places in co-op than with solo play. Certain parts of the game even have a sign to mark that path as only reachable with two players. Mind you, those paths were really challenging. Choose your friend wisely because patience is virtue on those paths.
Looks cute but is vicious
The graphic design of this game is really great. The environments look beautiful with a great balance in dark paths enriched with vibrant colored tints along the way. There are five different underground “worlds” to explore with their own unique styles. At first glance, Super Chariot looks cute and easy but trust me it is not easy at all. The first levels let you ease into the mechanics a bit but from then on, you really need to have great button-pressing-coordination to maneuver the chariot through the levels. It often felt very hard to reach certain places, but it was never unfair. When you finally reach the exit, you get a real sense of accomplishment.
Conclusion
Super Chariot is a cute-looking hard game that is ideal to test your current relationships. If you and your friend can get in sync with each other, you can experience great moment together in this game. If you need an even greater challenge, try to get through each level alone. With the added accomplishments you can chase, Super Chariot has much replay value for your money. A must own in my opinion.
