The Great Giana Sisters

Game review

If you're someone who enjoys classic platformers but seeks a twist on the traditional formula, The Great Giana Sisters might catch your interest. Tailored for those who might prefer a female protagonist in their games, this title offers an alternative to the iconic Mario series, featuring sisters instead of the famous plumber brothers. However, it's important to note that while attempting to provide this alternative, The Great Giana Sisters closely mimics the gameplay, level design, and overall feel of the Mario games, to the point of being considered a clone.

Despite its aim to stand out with female leads, the game doesn't manage to capture the same magic or quality as its inspiration. Players might find themselves navigating through levels that feel all too familiar, yet lacking the polish, creativity, and engaging gameplay that made Mario a household name. From the way power-ups are presented to the overall level progression, everything feels reminiscent of Mario, but without the same level of execution or charm.

One of the game's attempts to differentiate itself—through slight variations in power-ups and game mechanics—often leads to confusion rather than innovation. Where players might expect certain familiar elements to behave in a certain way, they're met with odd substitutions that don't add to the experience. This can lead to a disjointed feeling, as the game straddles the line between homage and copy without fully committing to either.

In summary, The Great Giana Sisters offers an interesting concept by featuring female protagonists in a platforming adventure akin to Mario. However, the game struggles to step out of the shadow of its inspiration, offering an experience that feels more like a pale imitation than a stand-alone title. While it might pique the curiosity of those looking for a different perspective in their platformers, it falls short of delivering the polished and enjoyable gameplay that defines the genre's best.