Alwa's Legacy
A 16-bit-style Metroidvania sequel with improved map and movement.
Alwa's Legacy is a Metroidvania video game developed by Elden Pixels and first released in 2020. It is a sequel to Alwa's Awakening, following protagonist Zoe as she attempts to return home to her original world after saving the land of Alwa. The game clones Metroidvania-style games from the 16-bit era, featuring side-scrolling gameplay, puzzle-platform elements, and pixel art.
Quick Facts
- Title
- Alwa's Legacy
- Developer
- Elden Pixels
- Designer
- Mikael Forslind
- Engine
- Unity
- Platforms
- Linux / macOS / Windows / Nintendo Switch / PlayStation 4
- Released
- Linux, macOS, Windows / June 17, 2020 / Nintendo Switch / September 29, 2020 / PlayStation 4 / November 30, 2021
- Genre
- Metroidvania
- Modes
- Single-player
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
Alwa's Legacy is a sequel to Elden Pixels' previous game, Alwa's Awakening. After saving the land of Alwa, series protagonist Zoe attempts to return home to her original world but finds enemies standing in her way. Although a sequel, the story is standalone. The game was funded on Kickstarter. Before beginning the design, Elden Pixels made a list of the most common complaints about Alwa's Awakening and tried to improve on each of them, particularly the map, reducing backtracking, and speeding up protagonist Zoe's movement. Because of their small size, self-publishing on multiple platforms was impossible, and the Nintendo Switch port was delayed. Like the first game, Switch sales outpaced those from Steam. In September 2021, it was bundled with Alwa's Awakening in Alwa's Collection for the PlayStation 4 and Switch.
Reader's Guide
Alwa's Legacy is notable for its deliberate improvements over its predecessor, addressing common criticisms such as map design, backtracking, and character movement speed. Critics praised these enhancements, with PC Gamer highlighting the improved map and NintendoWorldReport noting more modern gameplay elements. TouchArcade called it a 'very strong, if somewhat safe, entry in the genre' with improved mechanics. Nintendojo said it 'ups the ante in virtually every way' and called it 'a brilliant addition to Switch's library'. Nintendo Life stated that it 'routinely demonstrates mastery of the elements necessary to a good Metroidvania'. The game also features an alternate mode, when unlocked, that challenges players to win without violence. Its reception on both PC and Switch was generally favorable according to Metacritic, and OpenCritic assessed strong approval with 80% of critics recommending it. The game's sales pattern mirrored the first game, with Switch sales outpacing Steam sales.
Did You Know?
- Alwa's Legacy was funded on Kickstarter.
- Elden Pixels made a list of common complaints about Alwa's Awakening and improved the map, reduced backtracking, and sped up Zoe's movement.
- An alternate mode challenges players to win the game without violence.
- In September 2021, Alwa's Legacy was bundled with Alwa's Awakening in Alwa's Collection for PlayStation 4 and Switch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Alwa's Legacy?
Alwa's Legacy is a 16-bit-inspired Metroidvania created by Elden Pixels and shipped in 2020. It picks up the story after Alwa's Awakening, following Zoe as she seeks a way back to her home world.
Who is the protagonist of Alwa's Legacy?
Zoe is the player character, a young girl who once rescued the land of Alwa and now travels through its regions trying to find a path back to her own world.
What platforms can I play Alwa's Legacy on?
The title came to PC (Windows and Linux) on June 17, 2020, hit Nintendo Switch on September 29, 2020, and is also playable on PlayStation 4.
How does Alwa's Legacy differ from Alwa's Awakening?
Compared to the first entry, the sequel overhauls the map interface and tightens up movement controls while retaining the core side-scrolling, puzzle-platforming loop.
How was Alwa's Legacy received by critics?
It earned a largely positive reception on Metacritic, and OpenCritic reports that 80% of reviewing outlets recommend the game.
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