Shovel Knight is introduced as a standout retro-inspired game with a detailed look at its NES influences.

• Shovel Knight stands out in the current gaming landscape for its authentic retro feel and gameplay.
• Developed by Yacht Club, it's a side-scrolling action-platformer that draws from a range of classic NES titles.
• The game is lauded for its combination of various gameplay elements, making it a favorite in 2014.

Shovel Knight's gameplay mechanics and design influences are broken down, highlighting its homage to NES classics.

• The game's levels and bosses are inspired by Mega Man, the combat by DuckTales and Ninja Gaiden, and the world map by Mario 3.
• Town exploration and backtracking elements are taken from Zelda 2 and Faxanadu, showcasing Yacht Club's comprehensive homage to NES games.
• While Shovel Knight borrows from various classics, it maintains a unique identity with its own graphics and chiptune soundtrack.

Shovel Knight's combat system is detailed, noting its simplicity and unique features.

• The combat is fluid with an easy-to-understand control scheme, combining jumping, attacking, and movement.
• Shovel Knight can use his shovel to attack, pogo jump, and dig up treasure, adding depth to gameplay.
• The game's combat and movement style is distinct, although not as tight, heavy, or fast as its inspirations.

The design of levels and the world map in Shovel Knight are explored, emphasizing exploration and secret areas.

• Shovel Knight features a world map filled with stages to explore and enemies to defeat, reminiscent of Mario 3.
• Each level has a unique theme and secrets to discover, with loot playing a crucial role in obtaining upgrades.
• The game could benefit from more enemy diversity and larger populations within levels.

The game's challenge level is assessed, noting its appeal to both old and new gamers.

• Shovel Knight is less difficult compared to the games it draws inspiration from, with a checkpoint system instead of lives.
• The game's balance allows it to attract both retro gamers and those unfamiliar with the era.
• While not as soul-crushing as some NES titles, the new game+ mode offers an additional challenge.

A concluding evaluation of Shovel Knight showcases the reviewer's admiration and the game's lasting appeal.

• The game is praised for its deep understanding of NES classics and its ability to forge its own path.
• Despite its limited challenge, it is considered a must-play game that the reviewer anticipates returning to over time.