Aksys Games just announced that The Good Old Days is out now for the Nintendo Switch in North America. This immediately got my attention because the pitch is a certified winner for anyone who lived through the ’80s and ’90s: a 2D Metroidvania-style action game that promises to be completely soaked in classic pop culture and nostalgia.
The press release leans heavily on the “golden glow of youthful dreams” and the spirit of ’80s adventure films—think The Goonies or Explorers, but in pixel form. If it delivers on that vibe of youthful daring and high-stakes quests within a single, unforgettable day, we could have a winner.
Gameplay is all about choice and character switching
You start the adventure as Sean, a kid swept into a frantic day in the fictitious city of Arostia. He’s got one day to settle a heavy debt left by his missing father, giving the game a tight, urgent timeline. As a Metroidvania (that is, games in the style of Metroid), the game focuses heavily on exploration, meaning hidden areas, secrets, and mastering unique mechanics are central to progression.
The game quickly expands beyond a single character, adding a brilliant tactical layer. As you rescue your imprisoned friends, they become immediately playable.
- Each friend comes with their own unique abilities.
- Switching between characters is key to overcoming challenges.
- It allows you to expand your tactical options and unlock new paths in the world.
This character-swapping system should prevent the exploration from feeling like a single-character grind, keeping the action fresh and engaging.
Why this retro appeal works
This isn’t just a basic platformer wearing a retro skin. The developers have crafted a “heartfelt tribute” to the golden age of youth. This means you’ll find clever homages throughout Arostia:
- Boss battles are inspired by beloved childhood toys.
- Locations echo the look and feel of classic arcades and playgrounds.
For the SEO-minded player—and for anyone looking for serious replayability—the story structure is highly unique. The Good Old Days features a circular story structure.
- Your main goal is clear, but how you achieve it is entirely up to you.
- Boss battles are optional—you can blaze your own trail through action, exploration, or sheer creativity.
- The story evolves dynamically based on your choices, the time of day, your money, and other conditions.
- Each ending seamlessly connects to the beginning of a new story, actively encouraging you to dive back in and explore new narrative paths and outcomes.
Key Facts on The Good Old Days
| Detail | Specification |
| Title | The Good Old Days |
| Publisher | Aksys Games |
| Genre | 2D Metroidvania-style Action Game |
| Platform | Nintendo Switch |
| Release | Available Now (October 23, 2025) |
| Rating | E10+ (ESRB) |
This non-linear, choice-driven design is precisely what elevates a good throwback game into a must-play modern title. If you own a Nintendo Switch and are looking for a dose of classic adventure and deep exploration, this looks like a solid grab. It’s available on the Nintendo eShop now.
Meanwhile, the physical version of The Good Old Days is available in North America. For more information, visit the Akys Games website, and follow on social media.
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through those links. This comes at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!
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.
