Nefarious: Play the Villain in 16-bit Style Action Platformer
Nefarious, from StarBlade, is a 2D action-platformer where you play Crow, a villain kidnapping royalty to power the Doom Howitzer. The game stages side-scrolling platform challenges and set-piece encounters while you carry captured princesses that modify movement. It ships with hand-drawn animation, a satirical script that parodies 16-bit moments, and upgradeable combat options. Fans of retro platformers who enjoy role-reversal and comedic writing get a targeted Switch experience.
What kind of game is Nefarious?
In this game you step into Crow's role and follow a clear core loop: traverse five distinct kingdoms, abduct royalty, and gather the power needed for the Doom Howitzer. The narrative inverts the usual rescue plot so motivation is mechanical and managerial rather than heroic. Levels combine platforming sections with mission objectives that push you toward set-piece encounters and collectible-driven exploration across illustrated backdrops.
How do Reverse Boss Battles and princess mechanics reshape encounters?
Inside the game, key encounters flip expectations by placing you inside boss hardware to fight heroic archetypes. The Reverse Boss Battles put you in giant mechs while standard platforming sections change based on which captive you carry. Mechanics and progression include:
- mech combat sequences against scripted heroes,
- princess-specific passive abilities that alter movement and platforming,
- an airship hub for equipping ammo types and punch upgrades.
Is it easy to get started, and does it reward repeat play?
Playing as Crow, onboarding covers basic movement and weapons but precision platforming can be affected by controls that some users describe as slightly floaty on the Nintendo Switch. The game provides a standard ending plus a secret ending unlocked through exploration and collectibles, which encourages multiple runs. It supports Handheld, Tabletop, and TV modes and requires about 1.2GB of storage, keeping technical demands modest for a Switch title.
A playful pick for retro fans who accept occasional control imprecision
Nefarious is a spirited choice for players who enjoy retro platforming with a role-reversal premise and boss-focused set pieces. However, the slightly floaty feel reported on Nintendo Switch can reduce platforming precision for players seeking tight input response. Players who value comedic writing, varied boss encounters, and exploration that rewards repeat runs should find the game worth trying despite that handling caveat.
