Celeste — Review (2026): Is It Worth Playing?

Celeste is a platformer by Maddy Thorson and Noel Berry, released in January 2018 on PC, PS4, Xbox One, and Switch, later on Stadia. The protagonist is Madeline, who decides to climb Mount Celeste, overcoming physical and internal hardships. The game combines hardcore platforming with a story about battling anxiety and depression.

What is the game about

Madeline suffers from panic attacks and decides to prove to herself she can conquer the mountain. Each chapter introduces a new mechanic: moving platforms, feathers granting a double jump, and Madeline's "bad side" that hinders progress. The story unfolds through dialogues and short scenes. The game was created in four days at a game jam but grew into a full project with hundreds of levels.

Gameplay

Precise platforming: jumps, dashes, and wall grabs demand millisecond precision. Controls are responsive, deaths are instant, respawn is too.
Assisted Mode: you can slow the game, grant invincibility, or infinite dashes — the game is accessible to all skill levels.
Secrets: collect strawberries and unlock B-sides for hardcore challenges, then C-sides for the insane.
Music: the soundtrack by Lena Raine is one of the best in indie, synthesizers and piano creating atmosphere.
Free DLC: chapters 8 and 9 add dozens of new levels after release.

Should you play it in 2026

Yes. Celeste is the benchmark platformer with soul: hard but fair, with a touching story. If you love Super Meat Boy, Hollow Knight, or just good indie games — this is a must. Assisted Mode lets you enjoy the story without frustration.

Pros and cons

Pros	Cons
Perfect controls	Very hard without Assisted Mode
Strong story about mental health	Pixel art isn't for everyone
Assisted Mode for newcomers	Short main campaign (8–10 hours)
Great soundtrack	No co-op

FAQ

Is there an end? Yes, the story concludes, but there are B-sides and C-sides for hardcore players.

How many hours? 8–10 hours main story, 20+ with secrets.

On mobile? No, only PC and consoles.