If you’ve spent any time browsing the deeper corners of Steam's "Adult Only" section, you’ve probably seen the vibrant, pixel-art thumbail for FlipWitch - Forbidden Sex Hex. It looks like a standard "horny game" at first glance. You know the type. Low-effort assets, static images, and gameplay that feels like an afterthought.
But here’s the thing: it’s actually kind of great?
Honestly, the biggest surprise for most people isn't the NSFW content. It’s the fact that MomoGames and Critical Bliss actually built a functioning, competent Metroidvania under all that fanservice. Released on November 17, 2023, the game has managed to maintain a "Very Positive" rating with thousands of reviews. That doesn't happen just because of "plot."
What’s the Deal With the Genderbending?
The core hook of FlipWitch - Forbidden Sex Hex is right there in the name. You play as a protagonist who gains the ability to "flip" between a female and male form.
This isn't just a cosmetic choice or a way to see different types of spicy scenes. It’s a literal mechanical necessity. You’ll find yourself stuck in Spirit City, realizing that certain NPCs will only talk to you or give you quests if you’re in a specific form. For example, some characters are cursed and need help that requires your "FlipWitch" abilities.
📖 Related: Why the Yakuza 0 Miracle in Maharaja Quest is the Peak of Sega Storytelling
The world is split into classic zones: overgrown forests, creepy caverns, and even the depths of hell. To get through them, you’re doing the classic Metroidvania dance. You find a boss, you die a few times, you learn their patterns, and eventually, you unlock a new spell or double-jump that lets you reach that one shiny chest you saw three hours ago.
It’s a Real Game, Seriously
Let’s talk about the "game" part for a second. Most "lewd" titles are basically visual novels with a few mini-games tacked on. This is a side-scrolling action platformer.
The combat is snappy. You have a melee attack and a charged ranged shot. As you progress, you pick up equipment and magic that actually change how you handle encounters. Some players on Steam have even pointed out that the "Easy" mode isn't a total cakewalk. You still have to time your dashes and manage your "Peaches" (the game's version of health potions).
The boss fights are surprisingly complex. We’re talking multi-phase encounters with "bullet hell" elements. Take the final boss, for instance. If you don't tank certain hits to push your DPS (damage per second) during the second phase, you’ll get overwhelmed by a grid of lasers that’s genuinely tough to dodge.
👉 See also: Minecraft Cool and Easy Houses: Why Most Players Build the Wrong Way
The Aesthetic and Sound
The pixel art is high-quality. It’s got that 16-bit SNES vibe but with much more fluid animations.
And the music?
It slaps.
Tracks like Phantasmal Phunk and Bubble Beat have become fan favorites. It’s rare for an adult game to have a soundtrack that people actually want to listen to outside of the game, but MomoJams (the composer) really put in the work here. It gives the whole experience a personality that feels more like a passion project than a cash grab.
The NSFW Elephant in the Room
We can't ignore why a lot of people click on this game in the first place. FlipWitch - Forbidden Sex Hex is unabashedly adult.
✨ Don't miss: Thinking game streaming: Why watching people solve puzzles is actually taking over Twitch
The "H-animations" (the sexual content) are unlocked via Lucky Coins or by completing specific quests for the citizens of Spirit City. Unlike some games that use static "CGs," these are fully animated pixel-art loops. There’s a huge variety, too. Monster girls, humans, and fantasy creatures are all part of the mix.
However, some critics—like Natalie.TF—have noted that the game leans heavily into the "male gaze." Even though you can turn into a guy, the male form doesn't get nearly as much attention or variety as the female form. It’s a bit of a missed opportunity for a game built on the concept of gender-flipping.
Is it Worth Playing?
If you hate Metroidvanias, this won't change your mind. If you’re looking for a deep, philosophical story about the nature of gender... well, you're in the wrong place.
But if you like games like Scarlet Maiden or Castle in the Clouds DX, this is basically the gold standard for that niche. It takes about 8 to 10 hours to hit 100% completion, which is a perfect length. It doesn't overstay its welcome.
Things to Keep in Mind Before You Buy:
- Controls: Some people find the jumping a bit "floaty." It takes about 20 minutes to get the hang of the momentum.
- Save Often: Some "game over" scenes only save to your gallery if you actually save your game after seeing them.
- The Grinders: If you want to unlock everything, you’ll be doing a lot of backtracking for Lucky Coins. Use the map markers; they are your best friend.
Ultimately, this game succeeded because it didn't just rely on its "Adult Only" tag. It provided a solid gameplay loop that happens to be wrapped in a very horny package. It's a "lewdtroidvania" that actually respects the first half of that made-up word.
If you decide to dive in, focus on unlocking the Goblin Bomb early. It’s a massive DPS boost for the mid-game bosses that can be real road-blocks if you're only using basic melee. Also, don't ignore the side quests in Spirit City; the rewards (and the scenes) are usually worth the five-minute detour.