The path to the top is a perilous one. Platforms are occasionally slicked with slippery ice, dangerous fire, or some other not-so-friendly substance that makes traveling even trickier. There are also plenty of other times when the level design forces you into some tough situations, and juggling between dodging enemies that typically kill you with a single hit and keeping your footing can be messy.

A handful of far-off perches can only be reached by chaining three lava arches; the problem is you can only walk on your summoned magma creations (jumping or hitting them causes them to crumble). Your fiery arches also can't be summoned on certain platforms and they fall apart if they come into contact with any moving platforms. The frustrating thing is they frequently crumble at the worst possible times, sending you careening back downward and forcing you to retrace your steps. While enemies you've already wiped out don't re-spawn if you fall, it's still an exercise in patience to work your way back up after a lengthy drop. Unfortunately, patience is something you'll run out of quickly after having fallen in the same spot half a dozen times.

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Though the sadistic level design and jerky controls may eventually tip you over the brink of total irritation, Cocoto's gameplay hearkens back to the unforgiving hardcore challenges found in early platformers. As such, the game itself is unexpectedly quite enjoyable at times. Boss battles are quirky and challenging, forcing you to use your abilities in different ways to best your heftier opponents, and there are just enough levels to offer a solid challenge and reasonable amount of play time. Multiplayer diversions, including a racing mode and a competitive platforming battle, extend the longevity somewhat. By the time the main game is over, you'll likely be glad to be through with it. However, it's quite possible you may find you've had a decent bit of fun along the way.

By Nathan Meunier
CCC Staff Contributor