Review: Snake Pass (PlayStation 4 And Nintendo Switch)

Rating: 7.8
Author: Jim Smale

by Jim Smale · Published March 28, 2017 · Updated March 28, 2017

Slither, coil and climb your way to the top of Haven Tor in this one of a kind physics based, puzzle platform adventure.

Pros:

Nice big bright graphics.
1.76GB download size (PS4) 3.7gb (Switch)
Platinum trophy.
Switch version can be played on the big screen, Table top mode or handheld.
Three save slots.
Two control layouts-Easy and default.
4K Resolution support.
Invert camera option.
Opening and ongoing tutorial support.
Puzzle platformer where you must collect the keystones in order to open the key gates.
Cool Snake control. You move side to side rapidly to move faster and can raise your head up for climbing higher points. You can also swim very easily.
Bird companion will help guide you within the levels and offer routes up obstacles. Oh yeah and he can also pick up your tail and help you get out of a jam.
Checkpoints scattered across the level and they can be hit multiple times so you can save what you have done.
Three sets of collectibles in the game. Keystones are the only MUST COLLECT items. The other two, Bubbles and coins are optional.
End of level breakdown showing how many collectibles you managed.
Levels are very open with multiple routes, Shortcuts and hidden rooms available for you to traverse.
Clever physics engine at work in regards to your Snake.
Very cheerful almost Disney feel to the music.
Level select overview allowing you to replay levels and also see how many collectibles you have on each level.
High replay level.
Fast loading times.
Can swap control layouts at anytime in game.
Auto saves after each level.
Unlock time trial for each level including full online leader-board support.
Some really nice looking locations in particular any underwater sections are great to look at.
Clever level design from the puzzles to the general layout.
Slick animations and facial expressions.
Overall percentage number on your saves.
15 levels to play through.

Cons:

Steep learning curve with the controls. Its surprisingly tricky to control your snake especially when faced with very dominating wood standing in your way.
HD Rumble is strong and goes off on every pick up which is annoying.
No touch controls on the Switch.
Few clipping issues, Fell through a wall a few times or a pole didn’t react how you thought it would.
Camera can have a mind of its own and flip out everywhere.
Very repetitive.
Checkpoints are lost when quitting out.
If you just go for the keystones, The game is very short.
No difficulty options.

The Numbers:

8/10

Graphics - 8/10
8/10

Sound - 8/10
7/10

Accessability - 7/10
8/10

Length - 8/10
8/10

Fun Factor - 8/10

7.8/10

Summary

Snake pass is a clever game and one that dares to be different. Having you play as a snake and having to manipulate your body is a nice mechanic. Its just a shame that its said mechanic that can also be the games biggest downfall. Its just so tricky to learn, Once mastered or so you think, Mastered the game will then throw things at you where logic goes out the window. Aside from this it has a lot going for it, Time trial leader boards add the score chaser addiction whilst a slew of collectibles keep the OCD gamer coming back for more. But if you are a one and one kind of gamer, This is a short game made even shorter if you dont go after the collectibles. So in short great idea but it all depends on how well you can handle your snake!