10 Loveable Video Games That HATE You
4. Celeste
One of my proudest gaming achievements to date is getting 100% completion on Celeste. That even includes the free expansion they released for it too.
I can tell you, reader, that I REALLY suffered to get there.
To give you the skinny: Celeste is a 2D platformer which is absolutely tough as nails. It begins sedately enough, but by the end you'll be expected to combine pinpoint-precise standard jumps with wall jumps, glider mechanics and much, much more that'll have you questioning whether you want to continue with this at all.
Despite it flogging you repeatedly with its massive difficulty spikes, you can't help but fall in love with Celeste and its protagonist, Madeleine. This is a platformer with a huge amount of heart: it beautifully showcases mental health in a way that only a videogame can, and as you go along with the journey with Madeleine to ascend the mountain, your affection for her will only grow and grow.
The difficulty in turn is also a hallmark to the struggles of mental health. This game is a struggle in general; your journey as a player perfectly apes the one that Madeline is going through as you play the game itself.