Heavenly Bodies Review (hydde)
First of all, what an absolutely brilliant, witty name! I genuinely adore it, and I can say the same about the absolutely fantastic Space Race-era aesthetics (those manuals and schematics are incredible!), and wonderful music. Also, I hope I have assumed correctly that the two players' space suits are inspired by Soviet and American suits? I found that so-so charming.
Quick note on the co-op: I do think it would have been better as an actual split screen, not a shared screen, so both players could adjust their cameras independently. Alternatively, it would have been absolutely perfect as an online co-op experience. As it is now, I prefer Heavenly Bodies as a solo game.
It was a pleasant surprise that I didn't find the controls frustrating at all; the game actually made me feel quite zen instead. And I'm saying that as someone who has picked up a controller just a couple of months ago for the first time. There's neither a time limit nor any punishing mechanics, so you can explore and fool around as much as you like. If you find the hands confusing, I suggest adjusting your camera more frequently and moving one hand at a time: it actually makes you a lot more intentional and precise with your movement. The singular time I've felt frustrated was on the last level, trying to get the collectible through the timed door. Unfortunately, I have accidentally passed through the door without it, and there was no way to go back. This meant I had to redo the level if I wanted to get the statuette, which I did after a short break. It just sucks the door is right at the end :") It is a valid challenge, though, so I don't think it's an issue of game design.
Really, the only thing I'd "change" is adding more levels. (Which is how you know it's a great game: it leaves you wanting more!) I've discovered and completed Heavenly Bodies literally as the DLC came out, which felt like a blessing. Unfortunately, after completing HB: Cleanup, I can't praise it nearly as much as the main game. However, I'll be writing a separate review for it.
To finish on a positive note, HB was an absolute 10/10 indie experience for me. If it looks like your thing from the trailer, I'm sure you will get a ton of enjoyment out of it!