Developer Sabotage Studio has just released a brand-new update for its excellent retro action platformer The Messenger, introducing a welcome New Game Plus mode for players on PC and Switch.
For those unfamiliar, The Messenger’s retro platform action is at least somewhat inspired by Tecmo’s classic NES Ninja Gaiden games. It’s a tautly designed, meticulously paced little gem that unfolds as a series of linear platform challenges – each area a delight to navigate, thanks to the game’s fluid move set. I wouldn’t call it ground-breaking, but it’s certainly extremely enjoyable – and presentationally it’s wonderful too, with some bold 8-bit-inspired visuals, a catchy soundtrack, and some exceptionally entertaining writing.
That’s only half the game, however; around about the mid-point, there’s a significant twist, but it’s one that you might prefer to discover for yourself if you haven’t already been spoiled. If so, do feel free to skip the following paragraph – and, indeed, the semi-spoiler-y trailer below.
Source: Eurogamer Retro action platformer (with a twist!) The Messenger just got a New Game Plus mode