SinaRun 2 (Indie Game)

Disclaimer: These reviews are the opinions of the author and do not reflect the opinions or values of Take This Studios LLC.

SinaRun 2, created by Princesseuh, is…well… a 3D platformer in its purest form. That might sound like it is the embodiment of what Indie game is about, but it also could mean a lack of innovation. While judging this, I ran into a lot of grey area. It is available on Itch for $1.99 USD.

The creator uses this as the opening line to the sales pitch: "SinaRun 2 is a minimalist 3D platform/racing/runner game."

 SinaRun 2 definitely is a challenging and engaging race to the finishes using very strategic jump timing and anticipation of the velocity at which you move. Many a time I started out dying after the first jump. With no exaggeration, it look me 48 deaths to beat the first level. It is an amazingly addictive game! Every level is worth playing again even if you have beat it. There is no one path to finish and each course provides a "Dev Time" to try to beat.

As a runner/3D Platformer, this game has hit it spot on. However, as far as the description of a minimalist art style, I have to say that said description is being too generous. Minimalism is a legitimate form of art that actually consists of many different elements and it by no means should be called "basic" art. This games art style is basic, not minimalist. It would actually be more accurately stated as having a lack of art.

 

This is my main problem with the game: Indie games will not betaken seriously on the gaming market until these things happen: (1)Indie Games that charge should show clear and distinct uniqueness from AAA titles that makes them desirable. This uniqueness could be accomplished by creating a (or many) gameplay mechanic(s) that make the experience stand out. (2) Indie games that charge, especially with small teams, have the chance to develop an art style that is unlike any other. Even if the gameplay is a typical experience, the art can make a player perceive it in an entirely new fashion.

SinaRun 2 is not a unique experience per se, and it has no art in it. Not to be harsh, but it seams as if it could be completed in a few days max. All of the objects in the level are basic geometrical volumes, so level creation (not design) would have taken no more than an hour for each level (which there are only five of). The movement uses the basic in-engine physics (looks like Unity) and a basic Character controller script (perhaps Unity's Built-in Controller). Then throw some in-engine fog and then different ambient light colors and the game is finished.

Since I have now torn it down, let me try to build it back up. The creator does promise additional content in the future such as more levels, game modes, and general content. So perhaps this game could get the polishing it needs to make it a title worthy or charge. And to say again, it is very addictive and engaging.
 

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	$0.50 It is replay-able in many ways, however, there are only 5 levels to chose from.
Gameplay	$0.50 The game play is pretty fluid for what you are playing, however you can not control your avatar with a joystick which is actually more important that you would think, since you move and accelerate your movements at such a fast pace. And there are no unique features about the gameplay. (There is a multiplayer option for the game, however, I could not use it, whether it is lack of community or the feature is broken)
Target Audience	$0.50 The target demographic for this title is unsure. In my opinion, the game is too casual for what most people would spend their time with on their PC. If this were for mobile then the audience would make much more sense and would be much more enjoyable.
Art	$0.00 Like I said before, there is no art.
Total	$0.38 Is the pricing I would suggest.

Conclusion

The game is fun, and has the potential to be great even. Make a few textures or find an artist to collaborate with for a small fee or small percentage and that would bump up the value right there. Add about 15 more levels and bring it to mobile devices and the game would totally be worth the $1.99, actually even more than that. Best of luck!

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