Tako no Himitsu: Ocean of Secrets

About Tako no Himitsu: Ocean of Secrets

Tako no Himitsu: Ocean of Secrets is a retro-inspired indie RPG with platformer elements developed by Christophe Galati and published by Deneos. Released in December 2026, it nods to the Game Boy Advance era and serves as a spiritual sequel to Save me Mr Tako. Set in a world where octopuses were erased from history, the story follows a human protagonist uncovering ancient secrets as tensions rise between nations and mysterious voids appear. The game blends action, exploration, and turn-based combat, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience. It runs on PC and Switch, with a focus on single-player adventure.

Gameplay

The game mixes side-scrolling platforming with classic RPG mechanics. You control a human armed with a trident and grappling hook, navigating environments that shift between 2D and 3D elements. Combat is turn-based but fast-paced, requiring you to exploit enemy weaknesses with elemental attacks. Exploration is key: hidden caves, underwater zones, and temple puzzles reveal lore and resources. Boss fights blend platforming challenges with timed attacks, often requiring multiple attempts. The grappling hook lets you zip across terrain, but the controls feel occasionally sluggish. Each session involves battling enemies, solving environmental puzzles, and piecing together the world’s erased history.

What Players Think

PlayPile community ratings average 8.7/10, with critics at 8.2/10. Players report an average playtime of 18 hours and a 68% completion rate, suggesting it’s concise but engaging. The mood leans nostalgic (72% of reviews mention retro charm) and adventurous (89% praise exploration). One user called it “a love letter to GBA RPGs with modern polish.” The price at $19.99 is considered fair, with 45 achievements (1200 points) rewarding exploration and combat mastery. Critics note the repetitive soundtrack and occasional bugs, but the game’s heart is widely praised.

PlayPile's Take

This game is best for fans of retro RPGs and indie experiments. It’s short but dense with charm, though the 18-hour runtime might feel brief for the price. The grappling hook mechanics and boss design are highlights, but controls could be sharper. Achievements add replayability, with 45 to collect. At $20, it’s a decent risk for niche audiences. Not impressive, but a solid tribute to 2000s gaming that nails the vibe if not the polish. Worth a playthrough if you miss the GBA era.

Storyline

A spiritual successor to Save me Mr Tako, play in a world where Octopuses were erased from history. Following centuries of peace after the last war between Octopuses and Humans, the world must now face the secrets of its past. Wild animals are slowly disappearing, tensions between countries are brewing following the rise of the mysterious Temple of the Order, and shadow voids are appearing across the lands.