Welcome to our review of Exception, a high paced modern platformer out now on Nintendo Switch!
Exception is a combat platformer set inside a computer system which has been hijacked by a totalitarian virus. Lead the resistance across stylistic transforming levels. When an old woman’s computer is taken over by a virus bent on total annihilation, you assume control of an ordinary software program transformed into an elite combat machine. Retake the system and build your character into a formidable instrument of retribution.
A New Approach to Platforming: Entire levels transform to reveal new challenges and opportunities. A soundtrack assembled from the very best Synthwave artists. Nearly two-hours of Synthwave music serves as the perfect complement to Exception’s retro-futuristic aesthetic. Compete for the best time on your favorite levels through more than 100 online leaderboards. Use creative attack strategies to earn a huge bonus and reach the top.
Exception is a weird game, it really is. On one side, you got the awesome platforming and jumping or sliding across the field and on the other side you get the level that just switches to another side when you hit the trigger. This forces the screen to reveal the next phase in your quest to finish the level as soon as possible.
Both mechanics do work well together though I still have my issues with the game. I feel like this game is too strict when it comes to the time trials and the way the jump is preprogrammed is counter productive as you have little freedom to move around while in mid jump. I know it sounds like I am nitpicking but it just needed that little spunk to put it completely over.
Graphically, Exception looks hyper futuristic and while I think it might be a little too much at times, there is no real issue with the game here. Musically though, this game really shines. The music fits the game very much and actually is a real surplus for the game.
But back to the game itself. I want to clarify a few things prior to my conclusion. I did enjoy the game but did not like the time pressure parts one bit, I almost never went for the 3 stars and my screenshot of the two stars is the sole time I actually managed to do this. I got all 1 start ratings in all levels I finished. It provides plenty of challenge just finishing the game, let alone speedrunning it. Though I can imagine speedrunners will enjoy this more than me?
Take away the time pressure and this game is actually very appealing to play, in between every few levels, there is even the advancement of the storyline. A story that you are free to skip, which is always a nice touch. I often dislike the long story developments in platforming games, but hey, Exception is the exception here, no pun intended.
In conclusion, Exception is a great platforming game once you look past the speed aspect required to get three stars. I looked past it and saw a fun and challenging game, but as it is part of the intended appeal, I have to score it as such. To be clear, I would have given an 8 otherwise, but the intention of Exception is the speed as you will see the score display after every level.
