The Maw
Mar 09, 2009 17 years ago
In The Maw players control Frank, who in turn controls The Maw via an electrical leash that he uses keep him at his side. Gameplay involves guiding The Maw in specific directions to clear obstacles and complete levels. The Maw also has the ability to eat objects and creatures, taking on some of the properties of the thing it eats, such as breathing fire, flying, or simply growing in size. Players then use The Maw's increased abilities to navigate previously impossible sections of a level.
What it’s like
The Maw offers a charming, Pixar-esque adventure where you guide Frank and his blob-like companion, The Maw, through vibrant sci-fi worlds. The core loop revolves around puzzle-platforming mechanics: you direct The Maw to consume enemies and objects, temporarily adopting their traits (like fire or flight) to overcome environmental obstacles. This 'buddy system' dynamic creates a delightful interplay between character growth and level design. Visually and audibly, the game is exceptionally polished, featuring high-quality animations and a whimsical soundtrack that elevate the experience far beyond typical indie titles of its era. While the narrative is light and serves primarily as a vehicle for the gameplay, the writing and character chemistry provide enough warmth to keep players engaged. The structure is linear but varied, focusing on clever puzzle solutions rather than complex combat or deep lore.
Strong in Audio / MusicPolish / PerformanceVisuals / ArtAtmosphere / MoodCharactersGameplay / MechanicsPacing
Keep in mind The game is notably short, lasting only a few hours, which may feel underwhelming for players seeking substantial content depth. Additionally, the mechanics are relatively simple and lack the systemic complexity found in larger platformers, making it best suited for those who prioritize charm and polish over longevity.
AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from metacritic.com, gamesradar.com, ign.com, gamespot.com, eurogamer.net.
Screenshots
Releases
| Platform | Region | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xbox 360 | Worldwide | Full release | Jan 21, 200918 years ago |
| PC (Microsoft Windows) | Worldwide | Full release | Mar 09, 200917 years ago |
