Shiftlings

Shiftlings is a fun, quirky title that may surprise those who decide to give it a go. The game's structured like a mobile title, which makes it best suited for short bursts, but you will have fun here – especially if you play with a friend. It's never really ambitious enough to stand out in the crowded puzzle platformer genre, but what you'll find here is a quality pick-up and play experience that will test your wits.

Patience is a virtue, and those who have it in spades will likely find the outstanding stage design worth enduring some of the other frustrations.

Shiftlings is a game that will frustrate many people, but ultimately it's one that's worth playing through. Due to the focus being on just a few simple mechanics, puzzles that at first seem impossible can often have a simple solution. These moments of brilliance are what keep Shiftlings a compelling experience and one that continues to test your wit until the very end.

The story elements that are fleshed out don't really amount to much. It would have been better served without the bloat of the story. It harkens back to the oldest of game truths; as gamers, we ultimately don't care how or why Bowser kidnapped Peach (possibly something cake-related?), we only care how we're going to save her, and the playable journey ahead.

Shiftlings is a smartly made puzzle game with an endearing story and art style, but unintuitive controls and killer load times make the Wii U version a real struggle to get into.

Although the focus in Shiftlings is on cooperative multiplayer, the game can be enjoyed solo if you want to experience it that way. The first set of puzzles don't pose that much of a challenge, but you'll benefit from a partner for the majority of the puzzles in the game. That is of course if you are in constant communication and have someone willing to work as a team.

Shiftlings, then, is a pleasant, slightly challenging diversion with the tendency to be a tad annoying at times. It's never going to give the likes of Mario, Rayman or even Kirby a run for their money, but if you're in the market for a colourful platformer with an interesting mechanic and you feel the sound of flatulence never gets old, you may be right at home here. The rest of you may want to wait until the price comes down.

Shiftlings often ends up feeling like a by-the-numbers puzzle game, with its only redeeming factor coming in the form of co-operative play.

Even with the aggravating Host Shiftlings is a fun title which anyone can enjoy so if you are a fan of puzzle-platformers this is definitely a title which you should consider purchasing

Shiftings would have benefitted from some sort of level guide to help players out should they be stuck too long. A more refined art style – and way better sound – would've been great too. That said, there's some enjoyment in the gameplay here, especially if you bring a friend along with you. Then you can burp and fart together, like the freaks that you are.