Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
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About Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition
Dandara: Trials of Fear Edition is a 2D metroidvania platformer developed by Long Hat House and published by Raw Fury. Released in March 2020, it spans PC, consoles, and mobile platforms. You play as Dandara, a hero navigating the crumbling world of Salt, where citizens are trapped by fear. The game’s standout mechanic lets you shift gravity, walking on walls, ceilings, and floors seamlessly. Exploration is key, with interconnected zones hiding secrets and lore. The story focuses on restoring balance to a fractured society through fast-paced platforming and environmental puzzles. It’s a lean, atmospheric experience that leans heavily into its 2D format, prioritizing fluid movement and discovery over combat.
Gameplay
Movement in Dandara feels weightless and intuitive. You toggle gravity by flipping your orientation, which changes how you interact with the environment. Combat is minimal, relying on quick dodges and charged attacks to dispatch floating enemies. The real challenge comes from navigating tight platforming sequences and revisiting areas with new abilities to unlock hidden paths. Each zone is a maze of vertical and horizontal spaces, requiring you to backtrack constantly. Sessions last 20-30 minutes, with a mix of exploration and puzzle-solving. The controls are responsive, but the difficulty spikes in later sections, demanding precise timing. Progression hinges on discovering power-ups that expand movement options, like double jumps or wall slides. The game’s rhythm is brisk, with minimal downtime between action segments.
What Players Think
With a 75.9/100 IGDB score based on 13 ratings, Dandara has a modest following. Community feedback is mixed but leans positive, with praise for its gravity-based movement and art style. On forums, players note the game’s short playtime (average 6-8 hours) and occasionally frustrating difficulty curves. Achievements are sparse, focusing on exploration and completion. The mood among completers is cautiously optimistic, with many calling it a “solid niche title” but not essential for most gamers. Critics highlight its creativity but point to underdeveloped combat and sparse content. Mobile and console ports are well-received for their polish.
PlayPile's Take
Dandara is best for fans of experimental 2D platformers who value movement over combat. It’s a compact, $19.99 experience that delivers a strong premise but underdelivers on depth. The gravity mechanics are fresh, but the game’s brevity and inconsistent challenge might leave some wanting. If you enjoy games like Braid or Axiom Verge, this is worth a try. Skip it if you prefer longer campaigns or robust combat systems. The price is low enough to justify a playthrough for curiosity’s sake.
Game Modes
Single player
IGDB Rating
75.9
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