Exploring the Quirky World of Rubato: A Unique 2D Platformer

A Nostalgic Visual Style

Rubato caught my eye while browsing the Nintendo Switch eShop for upcoming titles. While pixel-art platformers aren’t exactly uncommon, the large sprites and the innovative use of 3D-animated pixel art felt like a nostalgic throwback to the early days of the internet. This game stands out in a crowded genre, leaning into the experimental nature of games from the early 2000s. Although I wouldn’t label it a personal hidden gem, I wouldn’t be surprised if it becomes one for you.

An Unconventional Narrative

The story of Rubato is as quirky as its visuals. Set against the backdrop of a game of pool gone awry, members of a mysterious organization known as The Company inadvertently blow up the entire solar system. Rather than facing the wrath of Higher Management, Rubato is tasked with gathering the scattered planet bits. As you navigate through large, multi-part levels, you’ll encounter an eclectic cast of characters and find yourself embroiled in a power struggle within The Company.

However, the narrative can be challenging to follow. The tone and visual style shift frequently, and characters often speak in strange, undefined sentences, leaving their roles and powers ambiguous. I found it easier to let the story wash over me, embracing the bizarre world rather than trying to decipher every detail.

Gameplay Mechanics

At its core, Rubato is a 2D physics-based platformer. While double jumping across platforms is a staple, the main mechanic revolves around Rubato’s tongue, which can pull and push objects, latch onto rings, and take out enemies. This unique gameplay is reminiscent of classics like Yoshi’s Island and the Wario Land series. The levels are expansive—almost overwhelmingly so—with layouts that can be confusing. You might find yourself pushing buttons to open doors on the other side of a fairground or jumping on moving cars to reach higher platforms.

As you traverse these sprawling levels, you may stumble upon subzones and challenges that serve as delightful diversions. One standout moment involved guiding an endless stream of cars in a first-person perspective while playing as a character named Guy Craft. This segment, where you destroy blocks to ensure the cars reach their destination, exemplifies the game’s quirky charm and inventive mechanics.

A Mixed Bag of Experiences

While Rubato’s ambition is commendable, it can lead to a confusing experience at times. The game features a 3D-rendered map for traveling between levels, reminiscent of Final Fantasy VII. With so many Planet Bits to discover, getting lost isn’t a major setback; you’ll likely find another path to explore. The soundtrack is excellent, and the visual style not only evokes the best of the Game Boy Advance era but also introduces unique stylistic twists that keep each level feeling fresh.

However, the sprawling nature of the levels can lead to moments of repetition and disorientation. While the platforming mechanics are enjoyable, the game’s obsession with its drawn-out story and peculiar characters can detract from the overall experience. I found myself enjoying Rubato in shorter bursts, as the quirky narrative and gameplay can be overwhelming over extended play sessions.

A Platformer for the Adventurous

If you’re a platformer veteran seeking something outside your comfort zone, Rubato is worth exploring. Its unique blend of mechanics, visuals, and storytelling offers a refreshing take on the genre. While I may not revisit it anytime soon, I can appreciate the creativity and ambition behind this unconventional title. Whether it becomes a hidden gem for you remains to be seen, but it certainly has the potential to surprise and delight those willing to dive into its strange world.