The idea of a math-themed platformer caught my eye when I learned about Néro & Sci ∫ Integral Edition. Developed by the small team at Souris-Lab, this 2D platformer tasks players with solving math problems, all the while they run and jump through colorful worlds.
After playing through the entirety of World 1, this brain-bending journey put my mind through the paces. Though my limited math skills made solving some of these challenges more puzzling than I expected.
What is Néro & Sci ∫ Integral Edition?
The developers describe this mind-testing platformer via Nintendo eShop.
Solve math-based puzzles as you jump from platform to platform in a colorful world made of numbers and geometrical shapes. Join Nero and Sci on their adventure, solo or with a friend, and travel across 4 unique worlds, designed to stimulate logical and mathematical thinking.
With 36 levels to explore across four uniquely themed worlds, Nero and Sci have quite the challenge to overcome. But how do they approach these math brainteasers?
Gameplay
The gameplay of Néro & Sci has the duo working together to solve problems as they run and jump through levels. Néro moves with the left analog stick, can jump, and also attacks enemies. Meanwhile, Sci is controlled with the right stick (or the second player in co-op) and can move objects around the world by holding the ZR button.
In addition, the duo learns new skills across the adventure. In my early hours with the game, I learned a double jump ability and a long-range arrow attack (A Button) to hit distant switches and objects. One major ability the duo learns early on is access to the ‘White World’, providing insight into the world around them.
This is critical, as learning what correlates to specific numbers or fractions is important in solving puzzles correctly.
Puzzle Solving
Solving puzzles involves several different approaches. One puzzle could ask Sci to move a specific number of different shapes into the right area, opening a pathway for Néro to get across. Or another can use Néro’s arrow ability to hit a far-away bullseye, dropping boxes/circles that are needed for a puzzle.
Mechanically, these are very simple, with character movement responsive and moving around Sci working well with the right stick. However, if you are not skilled at mathematics, solving the game’s puzzles is a challenging endeavor.
Thankfully, there are ways to make the experience more welcoming for those mathematically challenged. One is an in-game hint system that has players collect apples. Upon eating them, Sci can provide clues to help solve the puzzle.
Another is an extensive online guide created by the developers themselves, going over every puzzle step by step. This was immensely helpful, but it’s not in-game. Instead, it’s part of the developer’s website. Make no mistake, this is a welcome support, though it is not being in-game a disappointment.
Progression
Throughout the adventure, Nero and Sci collect Light Spheres, which double as both health and experience points. When completing a level, the number of Light Spheres collected can be carried with you into the next level for additional health. Or, you can spend them on making Nero and Sci stronger.
Unlocking some additional attacks (like an arial slash) can make the game’s limited combat more engaging, alongside other skills players can unlock.
Presentation & Audio
One aspect of Néro & Sci ∫ Integral Edition loved was its simple but effective presentation. Leaning into the math theme, every part of the game is designed around clear shapes, colors, and numbers.
The game’s starting world, the Ice Caves, does a good job showcasing the art style. Different shades of blue paint the backdrop, as prominent circles and squares are the framework for the game’s major landmarks on the stages.
But my favorite part of the game’s presentation is the strikingly original character designs. Néro and the other NPCs are composed of abstract body shapes, with huge, charming eyes, making their emotions easily readable to the player. Enemies and bosses are designed with the same mentality, visually standing out when they appear.
Matching the game’s charmingly simple visuals is effective audio, with ambient music and charming audio soundbites from Néro complementing the game’s art direction.
Closing Thoughts on Néro & Sci ∫ Integral Edition
Overall, I enjoyed my few hours with Nero & Sci, offering a unique platforming adventure that tested my brain more than my seasoned running and jumping skills. Offering an interactive math experience for younger and older players is important, as teaching math is a valuable skill with everyday applications in the world around us.
Gamifying mathematics in a fun and engaging experience is a huge challenge. So Néro & Sci ∫ Integral Edition setting out to offer a platforming experience like that is commendable. You can check out the game today on Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, and PC via Steam!
We were provided the game by the developer for this impressions article.
