Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Ghost in the Machine (Indie Game)

Disclaimer: These reviews are the opinions of the author and do not reflect the opinions or values of Take This Studios LLC.
Ghost in the Machine is a retro game for the modern era. A 2D platformer that is heavy on the platforming. Available for PC, Mac, and Linux on itch.io for $5.00.

Your avatar looks as though he is the spawn of ancient 80's program and the Nintendo Gameboy. In the year 20XX the player has become trapped in a factory decades old, and I am pretty sure that the factory manufactures death. As you play though the platform heavy, spike stabbing, weight crushing levels you pick up special wrenches with the mysterious power to reveal why exactly you are trapped in this factory.

Although this could seem like the typical pixel platformer, it surely should not be treated as such. The art for the game, like I typed about the avatar, is a tasteful reflection to much older systems and the game mechanics a reflection of that as well. However, even though the art mimics ancient technology, it feels completely modern as if it were targeted to a much younger audience just like it is for the OG's (Original Gamers). Also, the controls may be simplistic, the level design is flawless and shows that the designers paid much attention to detail.
 
The engine was also built from the ground up so that the creators could make sure that their product was exactly what they envisioned, which is always worthy of recognition.

 Overall Rating:
My rating system works a little differently. I do not go with the "Star System" nor "1 through 10". I rate games based off of the price point and what I think the game is worth compared to it.
Replay Value
$5.00 I would say that the replay value is there for the right price. Collecting the secret items and making it to the end of the level is not something done lightly.
Gameplay
$5.00 The gameplay is well worth the listed value. It plays fluidly and is a great new age, retro experience.
Target Audience
$5.00 They hit it spot on with their audience. It is perfect for retro lovers. The controls are so easy for anyone to pick up and it is challenging enough to keep the hardcore gamer enthralled.
Art
$10.00 A great crisp experience with the art style. The music is what really brings it all together. Completely synthesized using old handheld game sounds. Fantastic!
Total
$6.25 I would say that the creators are giving a very modest price at $5.00. This Is worth the buy!

Conclusion
The only thing extra I wish for this game is that it could come to the Nintendo 3DS. I would love to play this when about and about. To mention one more thing, the creator is planning on releasing a level editor so that players can make their own levels and share them with each other. Can't wait for that feature.
 



 

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