Written by Steve Zimmerman
ThunderStash Gaming
Stay tuned for more reviews and gaming insights!
Introduction - Dickens Meets Metroidvania
What happens when A Christmas Carol collides with the Metroidvania genre? You get Ebenezer and the Invisible World, a festive yet haunting adventure that transforms Charles Dickens’ classic tale into a supernatural action-platformer. Developed by Orbit Studio, this hand-drawn indie gem blends tight gameplay, ghostly abilities, and heartfelt storytelling to deliver a fresh spin on a holiday favorite. But does this Dickensian Metroidvania capture the Christmas magic, or is it just another ghost of gaming past? Let’s find out!
Story/Concept - A Ghostly Twist on Dickens
Ebenezer and the Invisible World is a fantastical reimagining of A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, set in a supernatural Victorian England brimming with ghosts and spirits. You step into the shoes of Ebenezer Scrooge, who’s traded his miserly ways for a heroic mission to bring peace to lingering souls and protect the city from spectral unrest.
The story begins on Christmas Eve, with London cloaked in spectral chains and eerie unrest. Since his encounter with Jacob Marley, Ebenezer has gained the ability to communicate with ghosts. These friendly spirits task him with noble deeds to amend their unfinished business, while unrepentant souls wreak havoc under the influence of Casper Malthus. This sets the stage for a battle between compassion and chaos, blending emotional storytelling with the exploration and progression that Metroidvania fans adore.
Gameplay/Controls - Scrooge’s Spectral Arsenal
Fans of the Metroidvania genre will feel right at home here. The gameplay features tight combat mechanics and fluid platforming. Each ghost Ebenezer aids lends him unique abilities, from special attacks and healing to mobility enhancements like double jumps and gliding. The controls are responsive, and the enemy hitboxes are fair, giving players the tools to overcome challenging foes without frustration.
Exploration is where the game shines. The beautifully interconnected map rewards curiosity, with hidden pathways leading to power-ups and lore-rich journals. Boss fights punctuate key moments, offering dynamic encounters that challenge players to use their arsenal of ghostly abilities strategically.
Graphics/Performance/Art Style - Victorian Art Come Alive
The art direction in Ebenezer and the Invisible World is a treat for the senses. Its hand-drawn aesthetic evokes the charm of a Victorian Christmas postcard, with lush environments ranging from snowy cityscapes to shadowy crypts. Character designs—both for Ebenezer and the many ghosts—are brimming with personality, balancing whimsy with the darker undertones of the story.
Performance-wise, the game runs smoothly on all platforms, with no noticeable frame drops or glitches during my playthrough on the Nintendo Switch. The UI is clean, and the animations, especially during combat, flow seamlessly.
Sound - Hauntingly Festive Tunes
The sound design is another highlight. The orchestral score masterfully blends festive cheer with haunting melodies, perfectly capturing the duality of the game's tone. Each track is meticulously crafted to enhance the atmosphere, whether you’re exploring a quiet Victorian street or battling a monstrous spirit. Voice acting is minimal but effective, with Ebenezer's dialogue delivered with gravitas and charm.
Audience - Who Should Play This?
If you love Metroidvanias with rich stories, Ebenezer and the Invisible World is a must-play. Its accessible controls and charming aesthetic make it an excellent entry point for newcomers, while its challenging boss fights and exploration mechanics will satisfy genre veterans. Fans of holiday-themed games or Charles Dickens’ work will especially appreciate its unique take on A Christmas Carol.
Content - Packed with Holiday Cheer
The game offers a wealth of content, including a sprawling map filled with secrets, side quests tied to ghostly NPCs, and collectible journals that expand the lore. There’s no filler here—every corner of the world feels intentional and meaningful. The pacing is well-balanced, with a steady stream of new abilities and challenges to keep things fresh.
Difficulty/Grind/Pacing - Balanced Challenge, No Grind
The game strikes a nice balance between accessibility and challenge. Combat difficulty ramps up naturally, ensuring players have the tools they need before tackling tougher enemies. Boss fights can be punishing but rewarding, pushing you to experiment with your abilities. There’s little to no grind, as exploration and side quests organically provide the upgrades you’ll need.
Emotion/Charm - Heartfelt Holiday Adventure
This is where the game truly shines. Ebenezer and the Invisible World captures the spirit of redemption and goodwill central to Dickens’ tale while adding a layer of personal growth for Scrooge. The heartfelt interactions with ghostly allies and the meaningful side stories bring depth and emotion, making it a game that resonates beyond the holiday season.
Fun Factor - Metroidvania Magic
Whether you’re leaping across rooftops, uncovering hidden treasures, or battling spectral foes, the game is a joy to play. Its mix of exploration, combat, and heartfelt storytelling creates a well-rounded experience that’s hard to put down.
Gametime/Replay Value - A Christmas Worth Revisiting
A full playthrough of Ebenezer and the Invisible World takes around 10-12 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring and completing side quests. While the story itself is linear, the rich world encourages multiple playthroughs to uncover every secret and experiment with different combinations of ghostly abilities. The pacing keeps the experience engaging, and the holiday theme makes it a game you might want to revisit during future Christmas seasons.
Legacy - A Dickensian Gaming Classic
By blending the timeless themes of A Christmas Carol with the Metroidvania genre, Ebenezer and the Invisible World carves out a unique niche in gaming. Its heartfelt storytelling, memorable visuals, and accessible gameplay ensure it stands out among holiday-themed titles. While it may not reinvent the wheel mechanically, its charm and originality make it a game that will be remembered fondly by those who play it.
Final Thoughts - A Festive Tale Worth Playing
Ebenezer and the Invisible World is a heartwarming and satisfying adventure that brings new life to a beloved classic. Its engaging gameplay, stunning visuals, and emotional depth make it a must-play for fans of the Metroidvania genre or anyone looking for a unique holiday gaming experience. Whether you’re a Scrooge or full of holiday cheer, this game has something to offer.
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