7 /10 0

Snake Pass stands as a distinctive entry in modern platforming, challenging players to embrace unconventional mechanics in a colorful world of floating islands. Developed by Sumo Digital, this 2017 release reimagines the platformer formula by removing the ability to jump, forcing players to think and move like an actual serpent. The game received mixed critical reception; reviewers praised its innovative control scheme and David Wise’s memorable soundtrack, though some criticized the steep learning curve and camera positioning. For puzzle platformer enthusiasts willing to embrace its unique identity, Snake Pass offers a refreshingly different experience that rewards mastery of its physics-based movement system.

How to Play Snake Pass

Players control Noodle, a snake who must slither, coil, and climb through 15 brain-bending levels spread across four thematic worlds. Unlike traditional platformers, progression depends entirely on understanding snake physics—how to wrap around objects, maintain momentum, and navigate vertical surfaces without jumping.

1. Controls – Use shoulder triggers to coil around obstacles; analog sticks control head direction and body alignment. The learning curve is steep, taking 30-45 minutes for most players to feel comfortable.
2. Progression – Advance through 15 levels of increasing difficulty, each introducing new environmental mechanics. Hidden collectibles (gears and coins) unlock additional content and replay value.
3. Combat/Mechanics – No combat exists; gameplay centers on physics-based climbing. Master coiling around bamboo poles, navigating narrow ledges, and solving environmental puzzles by positioning Noodle’s body strategically.
4. Tips – Don’t rush; deliberate, calculated movements trump speed. Use the camera controls to position your view for better obstacle visibility. Time Trial and Arcade modes unlock after completing the story.

Who Should Play Snake Pass

This game appeals to players seeking fresh mechanics and willing to invest time mastering unconventional controls. It works best for those who enjoy puzzle-solving over reflexes, though it contains challenges for all skill levels.

• Indie Platformer Fans – Those who loved Yooka-Laylee and Rayman will appreciate Snake Pass’s creativity and visual charm, even if the mechanics differ substantially.
• Physics-Based Puzzle Enthusiasts – Players who enjoyed games like Portal or Incredible Grappling Hook will find satisfaction in mastering Noodle’s movement system.
• Completionists – The game rewards thorough exploration with hidden collectibles and leaderboard competition via Time Trial mode, offering 20+ hours of extended play.
• Skip if – You prefer traditional jump-based platformers or dislike games with learning curves that demand significant practice before enjoyment.

Snake Pass Platform Performance

Snake Pass maintains visual consistency across platforms while adapting resolution and frame-rate options. All versions target 30fps with stable performance, though resolution varies significantly by hardware.

Snake Pass System Requirements

PC players need modest hardware from the mid-2010s era to run Snake Pass smoothly. Minimum specs target older i5 processors and GTX 560 cards, while recommended specs support modern systems.

Similar Games to Snake Pass

Several games share Snake Pass’s blend of physics-based mechanics, platforming exploration, and puzzle-solving without replicating its specific control scheme. These titles offer comparable experiences across different styles.

• Yooka-Laylee – A 3D platformer with collectible-focused exploration and creative level design; offers more traditional controls but similar charming visuals.
• Rayman Legends – 2D platformer with whimsical art direction and level-based progression; emphasizes precise timing over physics manipulation.
• Incredible Grappling Hook – Focuses on momentum-based movement mechanics similar to Snake Pass’s physics emphasis.
• InFlux Redux – Physics-based puzzle platformer where you roll a ball through environments; shares Snake Pass’s deliberate, puzzle-centric gameplay pace.

Snake Pass vs Competitors

Snake Pass occupies a unique market position. Unlike traditional 3D platformers (Yooka-Laylee) or action-focused titles (Rayman), it prioritizes puzzle-solving and physics mastery. Price and content align favorably with indie standards, though playtime remains shorter than larger AAA releases.

Snake Pass Story and World

The narrative centers on Noodle the snake and Doodle the hummingbird, who embark on a journey to restore Haven Tor when a mysterious intruder threatens the islands’ tranquility. The story remains minimal but charming, focusing on exploration across four themed worlds: grassy meadows, volcanic regions, icy peaks, and lush jungles. Each environment builds upon previous mechanics, introducing new obstacles and puzzles. The writing avoids pretension, letting gameplay and atmosphere carry the experience. David Wise’s orchestral soundtrack—featuring strings, percussion, and environmental sounds—complements the journey, creating an immersive sense of discovery and accomplishment as players unlock each world.

Snake Pass Multiplayer and Online

While Snake Pass lacks cooperative gameplay, its online features focus on competitive time-based challenges. Players can compete against friends and strangers through leaderboard rankings, adding replayability to the campaign.

• Time Trial Mode – Race through unlocked levels to achieve the fastest time; scores upload to global leaderboards.
• Arcade Mode – Introduced in free 2018 update; players collect fruit within time limits on all 15 levels while competing for high scores.
• Leaderboards – Global and friend-based rankings track fastest times and highest scores across all modes.
• Cross-Play – Not supported; leaderboards are platform-specific (PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch maintain separate rankings).

Snake Pass DLC and Expansions

Sumo Digital has provided substantial free post-launch support, though no paid DLC exists. Major updates added modes, fixed technical issues, and reintroduced original assets after community feedback. This support model demonstrates developer commitment despite the game’s modest size.

• Arcade Mode – Free March 2018 update adding fruit-collection challenge variant with leaderboard integration across all platforms.
• Quality of Life Patches – Free updates addressed frame-pacing issues, camera improvements, and the controversial Switch home screen icon replacement in 2018.
• Season Pass – No season pass or content roadmap announced; the game remains content-complete at launch.
• Free Updates – Ongoing patch support through 2018-2019; no updates released since, but the game runs stably on current hardware.

Snake Pass Community and Support

Snake Pass maintains an active community despite limited official infrastructure. Player-driven forums and streaming platforms keep the title relevant, while developer responsiveness to feedback demonstrates ongoing engagement with the fanbase.

• Official Forums – Sumo Digital maintained forums discussing mechanics, speedruns, and collectible locations; activity has declined post-2019.
• Reddit and Discord – Communities like r/SnakePass and dedicated Discord servers host 500-1000 active players; speedrun communities organize time trial challenges.
• Mod Support – PC version supports user-created content through community tools; limited compared to larger platformers but includes custom level editors.
• Updates – Developer support concluded in 2019; the game receives occasional patches for compatibility but no new content. Speedrun communities maintain active leaderboards independently.