Early reviews split on Switch 2’s Yoshi and the Mysterious Book

Early reviews for Yoshi and the Mysterious Book appeared two days ahead of the game’s May 21, 2026 launch and show a mixed critical response. Scores reported so far range from 6/10 to 9/10. Metacritic lists an average score of 80 based on 63 reviews.

Reviewers praised the game’s emphasis on discovery and its range of mechanics. Multiple assessments describe the title as a mix of puzzle-solving and platforming that encourages exploration and experimentation. Several reviews mention new creatures, level designs and mechanics that create repeatable moments of surprise for players. One review described the experience as “like a platformer Breath of the Wild.” Higher-scoring reviews highlighted the variety of ideas and the sense of discovery, with some reviewers assigning scores up to 9/10.

Other reviewers identified limits to the game’s depth and challenge. Criticism focused on a lack of sustained mechanical complexity and on ideas that felt one-off rather than systems that evolve across the full play time. One review characterized the game as “a collection of amusing experiments paired with a pile of homework.” Mid-range scores cited the game’s charm but noted a low-stakes design compared with earlier entries in the series.

Published scores include multiple high marks such as 9/10 and 8.5, mid-range assessments around 7.75, and lower marks near 6/10. One reviewer reported still wanting to continue playing after roughly seven hours, while others reported shorter sessions that emphasized initial discovery over extended challenge.

At present, the Metacritic average of 80 is the highest recorded for a Yoshi title since 2006’s Yoshi’s Island DS, based on available reviews. That position may change as additional reviews and player feedback arrive after launch.

Review coverage ahead of release repeatedly mentions the game’s appeal to younger players and to those who prefer a gentler pace. Several reviews note that completionists and players seeking deep, long-form mechanical systems may find the experience limited.

Yoshi and the Mysterious Book launches exclusively on Nintendo’s Switch 2 on May 21, 2026. The early reviews provide a range of viewpoints on the game’s strengths and weaknesses ahead of wider player reactions.