Celeste is an indie platform video game developed by Extremely OK Games and published by Maddy Madeira. It was released on January 25, 2018, for various platforms including Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and later for iOS and Android.
Gameplay
Celeste features gameplay centered around climbing a mountain, where players control a character named Madeline. The core mechanics involve:
- Platforming through levels with precise control over jumping, dashing, and climbing.
- Challenging puzzle-platform elements with mechanics like dash refills, moving platforms, and environmental hazards.
- A unique mechanic where Madeline can create a secondary character, "Badeline", to assist in navigating through levels.
Story
The narrative of Celeste revolves around Madeline's journey to climb Celeste Mountain, which serves as a metaphor for overcoming personal challenges and anxiety. Key story elements include:
- Exploration of themes like depression, anxiety, and self-acceptance.
- Interactions with other characters like Theo, Granny, and Mr. Oshiro that influence Madeline's personal growth.
- Encounters with her own shadow self, Badeline, representing her inner conflicts.
Development
Celeste was developed using the PICO-8 fantasy console, which influenced its pixel art style and retro-inspired sound design. Here are some development highlights:
- The initial idea was to create a small game to teach players about pixel art and game design.
- The scope expanded significantly, leading to a full narrative-driven platformer with multiple chapters.
- The game's development was heavily influenced by community feedback from the original Celeste Classic, which was a free browser game prototype.
Reception
Upon release, Celeste received widespread critical acclaim for its:
- Challenging yet fair gameplay.
- Emotional storytelling and character development.
- Exceptional music and sound design by Lena Raine.
The game has won numerous awards, including:
Legacy and Impact
Celeste has had a lasting impact on the indie game scene:
- It has inspired a community of speedrunners due to its precise mechanics and replayability.
- It's often cited in discussions about representation of mental health in video games.
- Its success has paved the way for further exploration of narrative-driven platformers in indie gaming.
External Links
See Also