Killing Time

Over the last decade and a half, the Metroidvania genre has grown substantially, primarily through the indie space. Developer Moonlight Kids looks to continue that trend by delivering a unique twist on the genre’s well-worn conventions. Echo Weaver, described by Moonlight Kids  as a Metroid-brain-ia – a term we’re not super sure about ourselves – gives players all their powers right from the start, gating progression not by acquiring power but by acquiring knowledge.

That compelling hook was enough to make me spend a few hours with an early build of Echo Weaver. Playing as the last Weaver, you must explore an ever-expanding map in a very pretty side-scrolling environment while using time manipulation and an impressive suite of abilities. While the Weaver you control possesses some inherent abilities, like a slide, double-jump, wall-jump, and a ground-pound-style nosedive, most of their powers are channeled through the primary weapon: a powerful glaive. The weapon is fun to toss around like a boomerang, allowing for compelling combat and enabling some of the most rewarding puzzles  I solved in the early hours of the main story.