Indie developer Fractal Phase has releasedFlying Neko Deliveryon PC and Nintendo Switch. The single-player life simulation is reminiscent of the belovedStudio Ghiblifilm Kiki’s Delivery Service.Flying Neko Delivery is Fractal Phase’s second release. The family-owned studio from Canada published its first game, the rogue-lite flight simulator Sky Rogue, in 2017. Development on Flying Neko Delivery took three years, and prior to its release, it was featured as a finalist in theUbisoftIndie Series 2021 and an Official Selection at theGamescomIndie Arena Booth. Flying Neko Delivery brings with it the kind of relaxing casual appeal similar to the management adventureBear and Breakfast.RELATED:Cozy Puzzle Game A Little to the Left Features at Day of the DevsIn the game, players help Onigiri, a cat witch, deliver packages to villagers while flying on a broomstick. Onigiri’s goal is to complete their magical apprenticeship and gain full ownership of a cottage. While flying, an indicator points Onigiri towards the delivery destination, and the player can speed up, slow down, or jump in the air. As Onigiri soars through the world, players can enjoy a charming and ambient soundtrack by Mark Sparling, the composer forA Short Hike.
Dropping off a package earns the player in-game currency, which can be used to unlock various upgrades, items, and spells. Onigiri can stop by shops and drink machines to purchase consumable items, like teas that boost flight speed. Between deliveries, the feline witch can also forage for wild plants usable in crafting. Players can enjoy decorating the cat’s cottage with customizable furniture.
Though adorable, some players have pointed out that Flying Neko Delivery comes up short in several ways. For a sim with flight at its core, players noted that flying felt stiff and difficult to control. Moreover, some said the cycle of picking up and dropping off deliveries becomes repetitive, while others complained that through brief conversations, Onigiri doesn’t quite develop deep or meaningful relationships with the villagers. Others were not impressed with the game’s low poly visuals, calling them outdated and akin to the graphics of a PlayStation 2 game.
Regardless of its perceived shortcomings, Flying Neko Delivery seeks to deliver gamers a relaxing experience, and if the developers present future updates, they have the potential to enrich its world, characters, and gameplay.
Flying Neko Delivery is available on PC and Nintendo Switch.
