Okay, this has charm in spades. I’m always interested in a platformer that nails that chunky, content-stuffed ’90s vibe, and WINDSWEPT seems to be aiming right for that nostalgic sweet spot. This buddy-platformer from Top Hat Studios, Inc. and developer WeatherFell is launching on almost every platform—PC (Steam), Nintendo Switch, PlayStation (4/5), and Xbox (One/Series X|S)—on November 11, 2025.
And with its charming, skill-based focus, this looks perfectly suited for the Nintendo Switch!
Marbles and Checkers: The ultimate buddy system
The premise is immediately endearing: you take control of two unlikely friends, Marbles the duck and Checkers the turtle, who are trying to make their way home after being swept away in a storm.
(I’m almost 50, and this is the first time I’ve been cuted-out by a video game trailer. Dawwww!)
The game is heavily inspired by classics that demanded both skill and patience, specifically mentioning notoriously hard platformers like Donkey Kong Country and Yoshi’s Island. This is not going to be a casual stroll!
Here’s why it looks like a ton of fun:
- Two Characters, One Goal: Marbles and Checkers each have a unique set of movement skills. You’ll need to use your “smarts” to figure out the best combo or sequence of their abilities to traverse the stages.
- 40+ Levels: The game is stuffed with over 40 main levels, divided across 5 uniquely themed zones, each bringing distinct mechanics and challenges.
- Friendly Critters: You can befriend and ride a variety of critters—ranging from a dolphin to a “licky-lizard”—which bring in new sets of abilities for traversing the stages. That’s a direct nod to those classic buddy-focused adventures.
Optional content and arcade minigames in Windswept
True to that great ’90s era, the game is loaded with optional content and collectibles. This isn’t just about making it to the end of the stage. You’ll be hunting for moon coins and hidden portals to discover treasures and unlockables.
Even better, when you need a break from the main quest, you can head over to the venerable moth’s Laamp’s Shade for some arcade games! That commitment to side content and mini-games is what separates a good retro-inspired game from a truly great one.
Mark your calendars for November 11th—this charming, quirky, and “dastardly difficult” adventure is one I’m definitely looking forward to trying on the go! It also looks like it has enough to attract younger gamers too, thanks to the cute duck and turtle combo!
You can check it out now on Steam, with other links expected to appear soon.
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Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.
