Played in version 1.16.1 of Java edition due to certain mechanics in that version, the goal is to get the credits by defeating the Ender dragon as fast as possible. Knowledge can help refine your approach, but practice is the only way to see actual improvements. Even a rookie can beat the game in under an hour with some guidance, but to get down below the 20 or 10 minute barrier requires practicing each split and learning the fastest methods.
The beauty of this game lies in the dedication that Team Cherry have to their craft. In making such an immersive, detailed, and hand-drawn pixelart world, they have demonstrated that a cohesive game cn be greater than the sum of its parts. I loved the Karmelita bossfight, as well as trying to rethink my approach after switching to steel soul. I have 100%'d it (without any external guidance), and can't wait for the future DLCs.
I bought this game on a whim. On my first run I optimised every second. But in later runs I took my time a little more: sleeping before 2am, gambling with Mr Qi at the casino, decorating my house, befriending all the NPCs etc. It proves that progress isn't always the point.
This world is very humbling in its scale and complexity, especially with the addition of the DLC and its focus on the inevitability of entropy and time. The first time I played I let myself get a little lost, but undoubtedly not enough. It proves that there's always more uncertainty to surrender to.
On its face this game is a curiosity. On closer inspection it represents something deeper, not only in terms of increasingly mind mending puzzles, but also gaining an appreciation of art for art's sake. When the world loses its meaning, you are the one who is left to define it in terms of the actions you choose to take.
Definitely a fun game to optimise as far as it goes (and waste time in class). There's not much more to say here.
A puzzle game that teaches you to pay attention. The complexity grows until you turn around and realise you need only look beyond the challenge at hand to find the challenge at its heart.
PEAK is a fun way to spend an afternoon with friends, sometimes its very punishing, sometimes it hands you the key to success when you need it most. It takes practice to master, but personally holds a lot of memories for me.