Aeterna Noctis is a 2D metroidvania game that challenges the player to explore a vast and beautiful world, fight against enemies and bosses, and overcome platforming obstacles. The game was released on December 15, 2021, and received positive reviews from critics and players alike. The game’s art style, music, story, and gameplay were praised for their quality and originality.
However, some players felt that the game was too easy and lacked replay value. That’s why the developers decided to release a free DLC called Virtuoso, which adds a new difficulty mode, new achievements, and new secrets to the game. The DLC was released on November 10, 2023, and I decided to give it a try.
The Virtuoso mode is not for the faint of heart. It increases the damage and health of the enemies and bosses, reduces the checkpoints and healing items, and adds new traps and hazards to the levels. The game also introduces a new mechanic called the Virtuoso Meter, which fills up as you kill enemies and perform combos. The meter allows you to activate a special power that enhances your abilities and gives you an edge in combat. However, the meter also drains over time and resets if you die, so you have to use it wisely.
The Virtuoso mode is a true test of skill and patience. It requires you to master the game’s mechanics, learn the enemy patterns, and plan your moves carefully. The game does not hold your hand or give you any hints. You have to figure out everything by yourself. The game also rewards you for exploring and finding secrets, such as hidden rooms, collectibles, and lore. The game has a lot of content and secrets to discover, and the Virtuoso mode adds even more.
The Virtuoso mode is not for everyone. It can be frustrating and rage-inducing at times. It can also be unfair and cheap, especially in some boss fights and platforming sections. The game does not have any difficulty options or modifiers, so you have to play the game as it is. The game also does not have any online features, such as leaderboards, co-op, or PvP, which could have added some replay value and challenge.
However, the Virtuoso mode is also very satisfying and rewarding. It gives you a sense of accomplishment and pride when you overcome a difficult obstacle or defeat a tough boss. It also gives you a deeper appreciation of the game’s design and quality. The game is a masterpiece of art and gameplay, and the Virtuoso mode enhances it even more.
If you are a fan of Aeterna Noctis and want to experience the game in a new and challenging way, I highly recommend the Virtuoso DLC. It is free, so you have nothing to lose. However, be prepared to die a lot and rage quit a few times. The Virtuoso mode is not for the weak, but for the brave and the skilled. Are you ready to become a Virtuoso?
