Disclosure: I was provided with a review copy of this game, All opinions in this review are my own and have not been influenced or altered in any way by the developers.
When I first saw Spindle, I expected a charming indie throwback with some light adventure gameplay. What I didn’t expect was how much personality and emotion it would carry. Developed by Wobble Ghost and published by Deck13 Spotlight, Spindle puts you in the role of Death himself, accompanied by a loyal pig companion, in a world where the flow of souls has mysteriously stopped. It’s an adventure that mixes melancholy with a surprisingly warm sense of humor, and while it doesn’t break new ground mechanically, it does have a unique soul of its own. The game is available on Nintendo Switch, Steam, and GOG.
Performance and Controls
I tested the Nintendo Switch version, which runs smoothly overall and suits the handheld format perfectly. The slower pace and exploration-heavy design feel right at home on the system. Controls are responsive, though movement could be slightly tighter, and I did notice a few invisible walls here and there. Still, it’s a stable and comfortable experience on Switch.
Visuals and Sound
The first thing that stood out to me was the presentation. Spindle looks gorgeous, with a 16-bit-inspired art style that glows with modern lighting and small animated details. Every environment feels lovingly crafted, from haunted crypts to lush forests, and the atmosphere pulls you in right away. The soundtrack adds even more depth, with soft piano melodies and ambient tones that perfectly fit the game’s reflective tone. It’s hard not to appreciate how cohesive it all feels.
Gameplay and Design
Gameplay-wise, Spindle plays it safe. The combat is simple but serviceable, and while the pig companion adds charm, it often feels underused. The dungeons and boss battles are well designed, yet the overall structure can feel predictable if you’re familiar with other classic adventure games. The world is fun to explore, but the lack of a detailed map or clearer navigation sometimes leaves you wandering without direction. It’s never outright frustrating, but a bit more guidance would have helped keep the pacing consistent.
Story and Atmosphere
What really elevates Spindle is its personality. Death and his pig make for an oddly endearing duo, and the story handles its heavy themes with surprising grace. There’s a sincerity in how it talks about life, purpose, and the afterlife that gives the game more emotional weight than you might expect from its pixelated exterior. It’s heartfelt, witty, and sometimes even contemplative, which makes it stand out in a crowded indie scene.
Conclusion
Spindle might not reinvent the genre, but it does capture what makes classic adventure games so special: a sense of discovery, charm, and meaning. It’s rough around the edges, and some ideas could have been pushed further, but it’s easy to forgive when the world is this inviting.
Score: 7 out of 10
This gives me a Moonlighter vibe, love it! Wishlisted it, thanks for bringing it to my attention!
Btw, I noticed while wishlisting this that Moonlighter 2 is coming soon for early access in Steam!