Alto’s Oddessy: A fun mobile game but is it as good as they say?

Alto’s Odyssey, developed by Team Alto, is the highly anticipated sequel to Alto’s Adventure. This endless runner takes players on a serene and visually stunning journey through expansive desert landscapes, offering a tranquil but engaging experience. Here's a breakdown of what makes Alto’s Odyssey stand out.

This game will cost money around 10 or less depending where you buy it for and from.

1. Visuals and Atmosphere
The first thing that strikes you in Alto’s Odyssey is its stunning visuals. The minimalist, yet vibrant art style of the game is nothing short of mesmerizing. The dynamic weather effects, day-and-night cycles, and vast landscapes—featuring everything from sand dunes to temples—create an immersive and ever-changing backdrop. Each area transitions seamlessly, giving the player a constant sense of exploration without feeling jarring or repetitive.

The game’s atmosphere is further enhanced by a carefully curated soundscape. The soft, ambient music complements the visuals, evoking a meditative mood that’s perfect for unwinding. It's clear the developers prioritized making the game not just a fun experience, but a relaxing one.

2. Gameplay Mechanics
At its core, Alto’s Odyssey retains the mechanics of a classic endless runner—players control a character snowboarding (or in this case, sandboarding) down slopes, performing tricks, collecting coins, and avoiding obstacles. However, there are a few nuanced differences that elevate the gameplay:

Fluid Movement: The controls are simple and intuitive: a single tap for jumps and a hold for flips. Despite the simplicity, mastering the physics of the game requires skill, especially when chaining combos like backflips, wall rides, and grinds.
New Mechanics: Odyssey introduces elements like hot air balloons, wall riding, and water mechanics that keep the gameplay feeling fresh. These additions give the game a bit more depth compared to its predecessor.
Zen Mode: One of the standout features is the Zen Mode, which strips away all objectives, scores, and interruptions, allowing players to simply enjoy the flow of the game without stress. This feature is perfect for those who prefer the meditative aspect of the game over competition or progress.

3. Progression and Replay-ability
Progression in Alto’s Odyssey feels well-paced. There are 180 goals to complete across various levels, each offering a good balance of challenge and fun. These goals unlock new characters, each with unique abilities that slightly alter gameplay, adding a layer of strategy when deciding how to approach certain challenges.

Replay-ability is bolstered by the game’s procedurally generated landscapes. No two runs are exactly the same, which keeps the game from feeling repetitive despite its simple concept. For completionists, trying to collect all items and unlock everything adds more incentive to return to the game.

4. User Experience
One of Alto’s Odyssey’s strengths is its accessibility. The game is approachable for players of all ages and skill levels. The controls are intuitive, and the game can be played in short bursts, making it ideal for mobile gaming.

However, for players looking for more complex mechanics or a high level of difficulty, Alto’s Odyssey might feel somewhat limited. While the beauty and fluidity of the game are undeniable, its laid-back nature might not provide enough challenge for those seeking a more intense gaming experience.

5. Monetization and In-App Purchases
The game’s monetization model is respectful to players. While there are in-app purchases (such as coin packs or cosmetic upgrades), they are entirely optional and don't impede the experience. Unlike many mobile games, Alto’s Odyssey avoids pushing micro-transactions too heavily, allowing players to focus on enjoying the game without being constantly asked to spend money.

Conclusion
Alto’s Odyssey excels in delivering a visually breathtaking and calming experience. It’s not just a game, but an artistic journey that’s perfect for players looking for something relaxing and aesthetically pleasing. While it may not offer deep complexity or intense challenge, its simplicity and charm make it a standout in the endless runner genre. For those seeking a balance between casual play and beautiful visuals, Alto’s Odyssey is a must-try.

Rating: ★★★★☆
Pros: Stunning visuals, relaxing atmosphere, intuitive gameplay, Zen Mode.
Cons: Limited challenge for more competitive players, repetitive for long sessions.

Highly reccomend this game for a on to go car drive game if you play with headphones with the calming music paired with the visuals you are sure to be immersed.

This game can be accessed/bought from the Apple App Store, (This game is included in the subscription service from apple in their app store called Apple Arcade) Google Play Store, Nintendo Switch (Alto's Collection), Steam (Alto's Collection), PS4/5 (Alto's Collection), and Xbox one/Series X/S (Alto's Collection)