Paradiso Guardian

Paradiso Guardian is a new indie Metroidvania that admirably attempts to capture the magic of some of the genre's legendary classics.

As angelic warrior Lenga Valentine, you explore a huge gothic castle floating mysteriously above the clouds. With its interconnected halls and secrets galore, Paradiso Guardian delivers an engrossing adventure for fans of the genre.

The basic premise follows Lenga's quest to reclaim the castle from unknown invaders. The story isn't anything groundbreaking, but it provides just enough context to keep you invested as you explore. Where Paradiso Guardian truly shines is in its tight 2D action platforming and rewarding ability progression.

Angelic Acrobatics

Controlling Lenga feels great right from the start. He moves nimbly around the environment and has a nice repertoire of moves like a double jump and air dash. Combat starts out simple, with just a couple of basic attacks, but steadily grows more complex as you unlock new weapons and abilities.

By the end, you'll be pulling off clever combos and precisely timing counters against screen-filling bosses. It all comes together to deliver some of the most polished 2D action since Castlevania: Symphony of the Night.

For its tight gameplay and rewarding exploration, Paradiso Guardian is an indie treat that lovingly builds on the Metroidvania foundations of classics like Symphony of the Night. It may not revolutionize the genre, but it proves pixel art and 2D platforming still have plenty of life left.

Metroidvania Goodness

As you journey through the castle, you'll gradually open shortcuts and gain mobility upgrades that reveal new areas to explore. There's a real thrill in finally obtaining the double jump or high jump boots, allowing you to revisit previous locations and uncover secrets.

Exploring every nook and cranny results in permanent stat boosts, alternate routes, and challenging hidden bosses. Like any great Metroidvania, you constantly feel like you're making meaningful progress.

It confidently delivers the Metroidvania experience fans expect, with excellent combat and exploration. That said, expect some asset repetition, particularly in later stages.

It's worth noting, however, that the game is not precisely what it seems. Paradiso Guardian features its fair share of lewd content. So, if you were looking for a "pure" Metroidvania experience, this isn't it.

Charming Visuals and Sounds

While it doesn't push any graphical boundaries, Paradiso Guardian's pixel-art is full of little visual flourishes that bring its gothic world to life. Enemy designs are particularly great, with clever nods to classic horror icons like vampires, werewolves, and haunted armor.

The soundtrack also Impresses, with sweeping, catchy melodies that pair perfectly with the creepy castle setting.

The game clearly takes some cues from Castlevania: Aria of Sorrow for its level design. Still, Paradiso Guardian could have used a bit more polish in its sprite art.

Pros

• Satisfying combat and mobility
• Huge, interconnected world full of secrets
• Great music and visuals

Cons

• Story is a bit thin
• Some repetitive tilesets