Through the Nightmares for Nintendo Switch

The good stuff

Man, the level design hits different. Each of the 45 handcrafted levels feels like a puzzle wrapped in nightmare logic. One level has you dodging giant shadows that pulse in time with the music - miss a beat, and you’re dead. I remember one section where I had to size-shift mid-air to squeeze through a narrow gap while a descending spike trap timed to the bassline. Got it on my fifth try, and honestly? That moment was pure joy. The three Dream Master abilities - size-shifting, downward strike, and the checkpoint flask - aren’t just gimmicks. They each solve problems in unique ways without making things too easy. And the checkpoint flask? Game-changer when you’re stuck in a loop of deaths. Three uses, but you earn them by playing smart. Feels fair, even when it isn’t.

The not-so-good

It’s not for everyone. If you’re looking for a chill experience or a story with big emotional beats, this might leave you cold. The narrative is there, but it’s buried under layers of mechanics and difficulty. Also, the low-poly visuals are… okay. Not bad, but they won’t win any awards. If you’re used to modern AAA polish, it’ll feel rough around the edges. And yeah, the game will make you rage-quit. Once. Twice. Maybe more. But it’s not unfair - it’s just demanding. You need to pay attention, think ahead, and sometimes just accept that you’ll die. A lot.

Bottom line

If you’re into precision platforming like Celeste or Super Meat Boy and don’t mind being humbled repeatedly, then yes - Through the Nightmares for Nintendo Switch on Xbox Series X|S is worth your time. It’s a short but intense ride that sticks with you. Free the kids, free yourself from frustration. Just don’t expect it to be gentle. And if you’re still here after reading this? Go grab it. It’s not for everyone, but it’s perfect for the right person - which might be you.