u/Blend-Al

Took around 42h

I played Cat Quest 1 after finishing the second game, so I came in with a different perspective than most.

You can immediately tell which mechanics they focused on improving in the sequel. The combat is clunkier here, the exploration feels less rewarding, and the main quest plot is weaker. Everything is slightly worse compared to Cat Quest 2 and that's fine. It's the first game so it only makes sense, it laid the groundwork.

That said, there are a few things the first game actually does better. The enemy variety is surprisingly stronger here than in the sequel. The side quest design felt more varied and interesting. And I genuinely appreciated the "figure it out" moments in the main quest, times where the game didn't hold your hand and expected you to pay attention. That sense of discovery was missing in Cat Quest 2.

I can definitely still appreciate this game for what it is: a beginning to a fun little series. I'd rate it a 6/10, meaning it was alright. The Platinum took me just 4 hours. Worth a play if you're curious about the series origins, but if you have to pick one, go with the sequel. (No co-op for those wondering like in the sequels)