The weekend is here and it’s the perfect opportunity to play some video games. But if you only have a limited time to dedicate to your PC or console, you may want to avoid expansive games that will take you months to complete.
As such, I’ve rounded up some fantastic multiplatform games that you can feasibly start and finish over a few days. Each offers something different, so at least one is bound to appeal.
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Yoku’s Island Express
Yoku’s Island Express is a Metroidvania infused with pinball, and I bet you’ve not played anything like it before. You take control of the titular dung beetle Yoku, who has ventured to the island to live a relaxing life delivering mail, but instead ends up needing to save the place from doom.
As you explore the island, you’ll meet characters who give you missions; some are side quests for fun, while others unlock new abilities that let you access areas you couldn’t before. Part of the game’s ingenuity comes in its controls. You can move left and right, but you can’t jump—instead, you must activate pinball flippers and bumpers to fling Yoku in the desired direction. It’s easy to get to grips with and satisfying, especially when you discover secret areas and defeat bosses.
The game has a real charm to it, from the varied island with icy mountains, lush greenery, and dark caves, to its friendly creature inhabitants, all of which is rendered in vibrant 2D art. Despite some moments when you need to be precise with your movement, it’s laid-back and a good game to unwind with.
It’ll take you around six hours to see the credits roll—perfect for that weekend session—but I couldn’t resist spending more time gathering all the collectibles and completing the optional missions.
Yoku’s Island Express
Time to Beat: 6 hours
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Tangle Tower
Is it possible for a painting to commit murder? That’s the conundrum that faces Detective Grimoire and his assistant Sally in this delightful point-and-click mystery, which has you uncovering evidence, questioning suspects, and solving puzzles. You probably haven’t heard of this game, but it deserves your attention.
Tangle Tower is set in a remote mansion, home to the Fellow and Pointer families—though they aren’t fond of living so close to one another. Every character is wonderfully voiced and infused with personality, from goth pianist Poppy to teenage inventor Fifi, and it’s a treat to talk to them and find out about their lives and knowledge of the murder. It’s all set against beautiful and colorful 2D backdrops, accompanied by an equally evocative musical score.
Despite the crime, this is not a serious game. While it’s certainly moodily atmospheric at times, Grimoire and Sally are constantly exchanging amusing quips that add to the breezy fun. There is also challenge to be had. Alongside piecing together the connection between clues and testimony, you will need to solve mechanical puzzles like decoding symbols or sliding tiles, all of which offer something different.
Tangle Tower
Time to Beat: 6 hours
- Released
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September 19, 2019
- ESRB
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Teen // Blood, Violence
- Developer(s)
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SFB Games
- Publisher(s)
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SFB Games
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Bastion
You may know developer Supergiant Games from the excellent roguelike Hades, but you shouldn’t overlook its debut title Bastion. It’s an isometric action game set in a stunning hand-painted fantasy world that has literally shattered following a catastrophe. As the main character known only as the Kid, you battle beasts and upgrade your weapons as you work through levels.
The story isn’t the most complex, but part of what makes Bastion special is the narration. With actor Logan Cunningham’s smooth tones, the unseen narrator responds to your actions and talks about the world in a warm and sometimes witty style (try falling off the edge of the map). Cunningham has appeared in every Supergiant game, so you may already be familiar with his great voice.
Bastion‘s gameplay is also just outright fun, and the different weapons mean you can experiment with playstyles. While I think the difficulty is well-balanced, with each encounter feeling fair yet exciting, there is a “no-sweat” mode if you want an easier experience where death is more forgiving. I recommend trying the normal mode first, even if you’re a more casual gamer—you might surprise yourself!
Bastion
Time to Beat: 6 hours
- Released
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July 20, 2011
- ESRB
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E10 For Everyone 10+ Due To Animated Blood, Fantasy Violence, Use of Alcohol and Tobacco
- Developer(s)
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Supergiant Games
- Publisher(s)
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Warner Bros. Interactive, Supergiant Games
When you don’t have a lot of time for gaming, these titles are all superb and don’t outstay their welcome. See how many you can get through this weekend!