Candleman: The Complete Journey is a Puzzle Platformer developed by Spotlightor Interactive and published by Zodiac Interactive. Gamers play as a single candlestick that is determined to venture out into the darkness to explore the world around it and ultimately reach a lighthouse that it has spotted far off in the distance.
The landscape is drenched in darkness, but luckily players have the ability to light the area around them. The catch is the candle can only be lit for 10 seconds per level. This brings some interesting gameplay elements into the game. With the limited illumination in this dark world, you’ll have to choose when to light up your surroundings very wisely.
The controls are responsive and well implemented. The goal is simple, players must run and jump to the end of each level, utilizing light in small bursts. It’s a fun and addictive platformer that has some puzzle elements mixed within the game’s 5-7 hour campaign. Along the way in each level, you’ll be able to light other candles which help you to see more. Some even provide checkpoints which are always welcome. Each time players burn their candle for light, a little drop of wax will be left. This can help guide you as you reattempt certain sections. You can follow the dropped wax like a breadcrumb trail, and save lighting your candle for future areas you have yet to explore and need it most.
There are some interesting platforming and environmental challenges that include moving objects, fire, ghosts, light-emitting plants, water and small puzzles that help to keep the journey fresh and exciting. For the completionist out there, finding and lighting each candle in every stage can be a lot of fun and will no doubt keep you busy.
Candleman: The Complete Journey is a charming title where you can’t help but root for the little guy, and his determination to be free of the darkness. I personally only have one gripe with the game and that is certain areas can lead to untimely deaths due to a compromised camera angle. Luckily, this is a pretty rare occurrence. Other than that, I found the game to be delightful, and thoroughly enjoyed the unique venture created by Spotlightor Interactive.
Review Copy provided by Spotlightor Interactive
Candleman: The Complete Journey Review (PC)
Review Score - 86%
86%
Despite only being able to burn for 10 seconds, a little candle journeys into the darkness, with the purpose of seeking light.