This game looks innocent and simple, but it's a trick. This is easily one of the best metroidvanias I've ever played and it deserves way more recognition.
The gameplay and movement is smooth. The progression is perfect as it never gets stale or boring. It's clear that this creator loves building bosses because there are so many boss battles and each one requires a lot more than just blasting away. Many of them require you to puzzle out just how to hit it or which weapon to use and it's always so satisfying when I finally figured it out, which usually only took 2 or 3 tries at most.
The story is what really surprised me though. I thought this would just be a fun romp through another action platformer, but I literally teared up at one point. There is intrigue, mystery, and the brutality of blind belief. I never expected that the main reason I wouldn't be able to put this down would be because I just had to know what happens next.
I really can't praise this game enough. The character design, level design, boss design, and every other aspect of it are so beautiful and colorful without being distracting.
This also worked flawlessly on my Steam Deck.
There are even a couple of post game bosses that are difficult, but fun. if you can find them.
If you've ever enjoyed a metroidvania and want one with smooth controls and a disturbing, but brilliant story then you cannot pass up Iconoclasts.