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Kalimba

Xbox One, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2015

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Quick resume

Jump, switch and fly your way through mind-bending subterranean puzzles in this stunning new platforming adventure from the award-winning Press Play! 

Global score

90/100

Genres

Action, Casual, Indie, Platform, Puzzle

Pros

  • Unique and clever dual-character control mechanic
  • Excellent local co-op gameplay
  • Polished visuals and adaptive soundtrack
  • Challenging but fair platforming puzzles
  • Short levels with replay value for perfectionists

Cons

  • Very short overall game length
  • No online co-op support
  • Controller support issues reported
  • Some frustration due to restart mechanics
  • Limited narrative and customization options

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players control two characters simultaneously with freedom to swap and move independently, requiring personal skill and decision-making."

  • Competence
    5

    "High skill ceiling with challenging platforming and puzzle mechanics; players receive clear feedback and are encouraged to master levels for perfect scores."

  • Competition
    3

    "Includes leaderboards and time challenges encouraging players to compete for best scores, though competition is optional and not the sole focus."

  • Continuation
    1

    "Game is short but encourages replay for perfect scores and gold totems; some players may lose interest after completion."

  • Cooperation
    5

    "Strong emphasis on local co-op play with teamwork required to coordinate controlling multiple totems; co-op praised as a highlight."

  • Creativity
    4

    "Unique mechanic of controlling two totems simultaneously and swapping positions creates creative puzzle solutions and gameplay."

  • Domination
    -4

    "Interactions focus on shared challenges and mutual coordination rather than exerting control or superiority over others."

  • Escapism
    3

    "Players use the game as a fun distraction with engaging art and music, providing a break from real life stress."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily for fun and challenge, with no indication of obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "Game introduces new mechanics progressively and encourages players to try different strategies and timing to solve puzzles."

  • Exploration
    -2

    "Levels are mostly linear and puzzle-focused with limited open exploration or discovery elements."

  • Expression
    -3

    "Minimal character customization or personalization; focus is on gameplay rather than avatar or environment expression."

  • Fantasy
    2

    "Stylized, imaginative world with totem characters and whimsical story elements, though grounded in puzzle-platform mechanics."

  • Fellowship
    4

    "Strong social experience through local co-op play fostering shared enjoyment and community feeling."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players develop platforming skills, coordination, and puzzle-solving abilities through challenging gameplay."

  • Health
    -5

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

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires focused attention and precise input; not suited for passive or background play."

  • Intimacy
    3

    "Co-op play encourages close interaction and shared emotional moments, especially among friends or couples."

  • Leadership
    -3

    "Players collaborate as equals with no strong leadership or authoritative roles."

  • Progression
    3

    "Progression through levels and collection of totem pieces and gold medals provides a sense of advancement."

  • Relaxation
    1

    "Game balances challenge with rewarding gameplay and music, but some find it frustrating at times."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Enjoyable visual style and adaptive music provide sensory stimulation and emotional engagement."

  • Status
    2

    "Leaderboards and achievements offer some social recognition, though mostly focused on personal accomplishment."

  • Story
    1

    "Light narrative and character humor add flavor but are not central to gameplay."

  • Strategy
    4

    "Requires planning and timing to solve puzzles and coordinate character movements effectively."

  • Thrill
    2

    "Some suspense and tension from challenging platforming and risk of failure, but overall controlled difficulty."

  • Value
    1

    "Affordable price with polished gameplay and replay value, though some note the short length as a downside."

  • Violence
    -5

    "No combat or destruction; gameplay focuses on puzzle-solving and platforming."

  • Survival
    2

    "Players must avoid hazards and death to progress, but failure results in quick respawns without harsh penalties."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026