In Celeste, hidden collectibles include strawberries scattered throughout levels, crystal hearts hidden in secret areas that unlock B-Side levels, and a cassette tape in each main chapter that unlocks an optional, harder version of the chapter. These collectibles challenge players and offer additional gameplay beyond the main story.
1. Strawberries:
One of the most common hidden collectibles in Celeste are strawberries. These are scattered throughout each level, often in hard-to-reach or hidden areas. Collecting strawberries is not necessary to complete the game, but they are a fun challenge for players looking to test their platforming skills. Some strawberries are relatively easy to find, while others require precise timing, clever puzzle-solving, and mastery of the game's mechanics to reach.
2. Crystal Hearts:
Crystal Hearts are another type of hidden collectible in Celeste. These are much rarer than strawberries and are usually found in hidden areas within the game. Collecting a Crystal Heart often involves solving a series of challenging puzzles or navigating through particularly difficult platforming sections. Finding Crystal Hearts can be a rewarding experience for players who enjoy exploring every nook and cranny of the game's levels.
3. B-Side and C-Side Tapes:
In addition to strawberries and Crystal Hearts, Celeste features B-Side and C-Side tapes as hidden collectibles. These tapes unlock extremely challenging bonus levels that test players' skills to the limit. Finding these tapes requires keen observation, problem-solving abilities, and precise platforming techniques. The B-Side and C-Side levels offer some of the toughest challenges in the game, rewarding players who are willing to push themselves to their limits.
4. Golden Strawberries:
For the most hardcore players seeking the ultimate challenge, Celeste also hides Golden Strawberries as collectibles. These are like regular strawberries but with an added twist - you must complete an entire level without dying to collect them. Since Celeste is known for its steep difficulty curve, this task can be incredibly challenging and is reserved for only the most skilled players. Golden Strawberries are the ultimate test of mastery in Celeste and provide a significant challenge for completionists.
5. Assist Mode:
While not a traditional collectible, Celeste also features an Assist Mode that can be accessed in the options menu. This mode allows players to adjust the game's difficulty to suit their preferences by enabling various helpful features such as invincibility, infinite stamina, and slow motion. While using Assist Mode does not disable any achievements or progression in the game, some players may consider it a hidden feature that can make the game more accessible to a wider audience.
6. The Importance of Collectibles:
In Celeste, hidden collectibles play a significant role in enhancing the player's experience by providing additional challenges and rewards beyond the main story. They encourage exploration, critical thinking, and mastery of the game's mechanics, catering to both casual players and completionists looking for a tough challenge. The diverse range of collectibles, from strawberries to Crystal Hearts to Golden Strawberries, ensures that players of all skill levels can find something to strive for in Celeste.