Without a single doubt, my favorite video game (tied with Sonic 3 & Knuckles). I love this game to pieces. This was my first Shantae game (would like it if the first and third game were in iOS too) and this was a series I've been interested in for a while. The gameplay is amazing, and the upgrades aren't too limited. I love how, similar, to Link Between Worlds, upgrades are limited by a magic meter instead of a numeral amount. This is something I wish a lot of other games could do too. The characters and storyline, while a little hollow on occasions, are filled with quirky writing, and funny 4th wall breaks and spoofs. The soundtrack is full of the mid-eastern-type world Shantae lives in whole being both atmospheric, and catchy. Since the rating system here is a bit limited. I rate this 9.5/10. I give high recommendations for any old school-platforming, retro, metroid-vania style gamers.

I love everything about this game, from its story to its gameplay. The side characters are everything from funny to adorable to even a little bit mysterious, and you may find yourself "accidentally" stopping by their places from time to time to speak to them and get a hint or two on what to do next. I even wanted to see Risky Boots more often than she came, and she's the main villain. The only two characters I found myself hating was the mayor of Scuttletown and Shantae's Uncle Mimic, but there was no need to worry, because they got punished for their damaging flaws by the end of the game in some way that was appropriate, not too kind nor too harsh. This game is perfect and anyone who doesn't experience it has no idea on what they're missing out on.

Well, I just finished this game yesterday, and there is only one word I can use to describe this: AMAZING. The graphics are great, the animations are smooth and the story and dialogue are very well written. I only have a couple of gripes with it. 1. Only one alternate costume is actually available. I think adding more would enhance the experience. 2. The story is a bit short. Maybe add some sort of DLC to extend the adventure so it doesn't just end so abruptly. That's all I have to say about this. (And the thanks to Chris Hoffman & Nintendo Power in the credits made me smile) Now, to anxiously wait for the sequel to become available. (Mighty Switch Force in HD would be nice too)

What a gem. This is an absolute must-play for fans of 2D Action RPGs from the NES SNES, GBA, or NDS eras such as Zelda II for the NES. Our half-genie hero a relatable and inspiring girl who is strong and adventurous, but has life's circumstances force her to adapt, be humble, and work to maintain her natural sense of humor, optimism and charm. She's also a lovely look at how there are some magical, strong, independent women in Middle Eastern folklore ! MFi controllers work stunningly, although the weapon select cursor is sometimes invisible, and gamepad customization would be nice. Way Forward, bravo for keeping this tremendous port updated and working. It's only timeless if we keep it.