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Horace

Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2019

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Quick resume

"The best platformer of 2019."Horace is a huge platforming adventure which pushes the boundaries of the genre with a profound story of a small robot learning of life, the universe and Douglas Adams. Made by videogame lovers for videogame lovers!

Global score

80/100

Genres

Action, Adventure, Indie, Platform, Arcade

Pros

  • Engaging and emotional story
  • Challenging and varied platforming
  • Creative mechanics and mini-games
  • High value for price and content length
  • Polished pixel art and music

Cons

  • Steep difficulty spikes
  • Some frustrating platforming sections
  • Frequent unskippable cutscenes early on
  • Camera rotation can cause motion sickness
  • Mandatory mini-games not always enjoyable

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players have freedom to explore, choose paths, and experiment with new mechanics and upgrades, though some parts are linear and story-driven."

  • Competence
    4

    "Challenging platforming and puzzles requiring skill and precision; difficulty ramps up and players receive feedback and rewards for mastery."

  • Competition
    -3

    "Focus is on personal progression and story experience rather than competing against others; no evidence of multiplayer competition."

  • Continuation
    4

    "Players report long playtimes, emotional attachment, and desire to complete story and collectables; some frustration but strong engagement."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Entirely single-player experience with no cooperative or multiplayer elements."

  • Creativity
    4

    "Game features creative mechanics like gravity-shifting boots, diverse mini-games, and varied level design encouraging experimentation."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No evidence of exerting control or superiority over others; gameplay is solo and narrative-focused."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Players describe emotional immersion, stress relief, and escape into a heartfelt story and nostalgic world."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of intrinsic interest and appreciation for story and gameplay; no obligation or pressure noted."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "Game encourages trying new mechanics, exploring different gameplay styles, and discovering secrets."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Players explore a mansion and various environments with backtracking and secret areas, though some parts are linear."

  • Expression
    -2

    "Limited evidence of character or environment customization; focus is on gameplay and story rather than self-expression."

  • Fantasy
    3

    "Imaginative fiction with a robot protagonist, gravity-defying mechanics, and surreal narrative elements."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "No social or community features; strictly single-player experience."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop platforming skills, learn new mechanics, and progress through increasingly complex challenges."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity or health-related features."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires focused attention and precise input; not suitable for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -4

    "Emotional connection to characters through story but no social or close interpersonal interactions."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements; solo play only."

  • Progression
    4

    "Players accumulate upgrades, abilities, and collectibles that enhance gameplay and unlock new areas."

  • Relaxation
    -2

    "Game is challenging and sometimes frustrating, creating tension rather than relaxation, though story moments provide emotional catharsis."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Enjoyable pixel art, music, and varied gameplay provide sensory stimulation and emotional engagement."

  • Status
    -4

    "No social recognition or leaderboards; achievements are personal and not widely visible."

  • Story
    5

    "Strong narrative focus with emotional, humorous, and engaging storytelling through cutscenes and gameplay."

  • Strategy
    3

    "Requires planning and precise timing in platforming and puzzle solving; some trial and error involved."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Players experience suspense and challenge in difficult platforming sections and boss fights."

  • Value
    4

    "Players report high value for price with extensive content, long playtime, and emotional payoff."

  • Violence
    1

    "Some violent deaths and boss fights occur, but overall gameplay is focused on platforming and puzzle solving."

  • Survival
    2

    "Players must avoid hazards and manage limited lives/shields to progress, adding survival elements."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026