Developer: Choice Provisions

Bit.Trip Complete (2011)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

BIT.TRIP COMPLETE: A Rhythm Odyssey Through the Cosmos

Prepare yourself for a mind-bending journey through the cosmos with BIT.TRIP COMPLETE, a compilation of all six award-winning BIT.TRIP games: BEAT, CORE, VOID, RUNNER, FATE, and FLUX. This definitive collection offers an unparalleled rhythmic experience that will test your reflexes, ignite your imagination, and leave you craving for more.

A Symphony of Rhythm and Action

BIT.TRIP is renowned for its innovative blend of rhythm gameplay and retro-inspired visuals. Each game in the series presents a unique challenge, from the pulsating beats of BEAT to the gravity-defying leaps of RUNNER. As CommanderVideo, the intrepid space traveler, you’ll navigate vibrant and abstract landscapes, dodging obstacles, collecting power-ups, and unleashing a symphony of sound with every move.

A Visual Masterpiece

The BIT.TRIP games are a visual feast, boasting a distinctive pixelated art style that evokes the golden age of arcade gaming. Each level is a canvas of vibrant colors, geometric shapes, and surreal imagery that dances in time with the music. The game’s retro aesthetic adds a touch of nostalgia while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of visual innovation.

A Journey of Discovery

Beyond the rhythm gameplay, BIT.TRIP COMPLETE immerses you in a captivating storyline that unfolds through animated cutscenes and environmental storytelling. CommanderVideo’s quest takes him across the cosmos, encountering bizarre alien life forms, traversing treacherous landscapes, and ultimately confronting the forces that threaten to unravel the fabric of reality.

Bonus Content Galore

In addition to the six core games, BIT.TRIP COMPLETE is packed with bonus content that will delight fans and newcomers alike. The video gallery features over 25 clips that delve into the lore of the BIT.TRIP universe, providing insights into CommanderVideo’s backstory and the enigmatic world he inhabits.

The image gallery showcases concept art and behind-the-scenes glimpses of the game’s development, offering a fascinating look into the creative process behind this beloved series. And for music enthusiasts, the audio gallery is a treasure trove of fan remixes, original songs, and demos that showcase the infectious rhythms that drive the BIT.TRIP experience.

A Timeless Classic

Since its release in 2011, BIT.TRIP COMPLETE has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fan base. Its unique blend of rhythm, visuals, and storytelling has cemented its place as a timeless classic in the gaming pantheon. Whether you’re a seasoned BIT.TRIP veteran or a newcomer eager to embark on this extraordinary journey, BIT.TRIP COMPLETE is an essential experience that will leave an indelible mark on your gaming memories.

Key Features:

  • A compilation of all six award-winning BIT.TRIP games: BEAT, CORE, VOID, RUNNER, FATE, and FLUX
  • Over 25 video clips telling the story of CommanderVideo
  • An image gallery with concept art and behind-the-scenes content
  • An audio gallery featuring fan remixes, original songs, and demos of BIT.TRIP music
  • A challenging and addictive rhythm gameplay experience
  • Stunning pixelated visuals that evoke the golden age of arcade gaming
  • A captivating storyline that unfolds through animated cutscenes and environmental storytelling
  • Endless replayability and a pursuit of high scores

Conclusion

BIT.TRIP COMPLETE is more than just a game; it’s an artistic masterpiece, a rhythmic odyssey, and a testament to the power of creativity. With its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, captivating story, and abundance of bonus content, BIT.TRIP COMPLETE is an essential experience for any gamer who appreciates the fusion of art, music, and interactivity. Prepare to lose yourself in the cosmos and embark on an unforgettable journey with CommanderVideo and the BIT.TRIP crew.

Review Score

9/10

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Dragon Fantasy: The Volumes of Westeria (2015)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Dragon Fantasy: The Volumes of Westeria: A Retro Adventure Reborn

Introduction

Released in 2015, Dragon Fantasy: The Volumes of Westeria is a retro-inspired role-playing game that harkens back to the golden age of 8-bit gaming. Developed by Muteki Corporation and published by XSEED Games, Dragon Fantasy is a love letter to classic RPGs like Dragon Quest and Final Fantasy, featuring charming pixel art, an enchanting soundtrack, and a whimsical story that will appeal to gamers of all ages.

Story

The game is set in the vibrant world of Westeria, a land filled with lush forests, treacherous dungeons, and ancient ruins. Players take on the role of Ogden, a young warrior who embarks on a quest to save his village from the clutches of an evil dragon. Along the way, Ogden will team up with a colorful cast of characters, including a wise old wizard, a skilled archer, and a mischievous thief. Together, they will explore the vast world of Westeria, battle hordes of monsters, and uncover the secrets of the ancient dragon.

Gameplay

Dragon Fantasy is a turn-based RPG with a focus on exploration and character development. Players will travel across Westeria, visiting towns, dungeons, and other points of interest. Along the way, they will encounter a variety of monsters, which they must defeat in order to progress. Battles are turn-based, and players can choose from a variety of attacks and spells to use against their enemies.

As players defeat monsters and complete quests, they will earn experience points. These experience points can be used to level up Ogden and his party members, which will increase their stats and allow them to learn new abilities. In addition to leveling up, players can also find and equip new weapons, armor, and accessories to further enhance their characters’ abilities.

Characters

One of the strengths of Dragon Fantasy is its cast of charming and memorable characters. Ogden, the game’s protagonist, is a brave and determined warrior who is always willing to stand up for what is right. He is joined by a diverse group of allies, including:

  • Kiara: A skilled archer who is also a skilled healer.
  • Ingus: A wise old wizard who is full of knowledge and wisdom.
  • Melfric: A mischievous thief who is always looking for a quick buck.

These characters each have their own unique personalities and abilities, and they will all play an important role in Ogden’s quest to save Westeria.

Art and Music

Dragon Fantasy’s pixel art is simply stunning. The game’s world is rendered in a vibrant and colorful 8-bit style, and the character sprites are full of personality. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with catchy and memorable tunes that perfectly capture the game’s whimsical atmosphere.

Reception

Dragon Fantasy: The Volumes of Westeria was met with critical acclaim upon its release. Reviewers praised the game’s charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.

Legacy

Dragon Fantasy: The Volumes of Westeria is a modern classic that has breathed new life into the retro RPG genre. The game’s charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters have made it a favorite among gamers of all ages. Dragon Fantasy is a must-play for fans of retro RPGs and anyone looking for a fun and heartwarming adventure.

Conclusion

Dragon Fantasy: The Volumes of Westeria is a love letter to classic RPGs and a shining example of how to do retro right. With its charming visuals, engaging gameplay, and memorable characters, Dragon Fantasy is a must-play for fans of the genre and anyone looking for a fun and heartwarming adventure.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Laserlife (2015)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Laserlife: An Existential Odyssey Through the Memories of a Dead Astronaut

In the vast expanse of space, where the boundaries of human understanding blur, lies a profound mystery: Laserlife. Discovered by future intelligences who have no concept of humankind, the remnants of a long-dead astronaut float alone, holding the key to a forgotten past.

Laserlife is an interactive biography that invites players on an existential journey through the memories of this enigmatic figure. Using advanced technology beyond human comprehension, the discoverers employ lasers to construct physical replicas of the astronaut’s memories, yearning to unravel the secrets of this strange creature.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Lasers and Memory

Laserlife’s gameplay is a unique blend of precision and introspection. Players wield dual lasers, controlled by analog sticks, to navigate the astronaut’s metaphysical plane. Their mission is multifaceted:

  • Collect Memory Molecules: Scattered throughout the mysterious spaceship are fragments of the astronaut’s memories, represented by glowing Memory Molecules. Players must skillfully guide their lasers to collect these molecules and piece together the astronaut’s past.

  • Harmonize Memories: Within the astronaut’s metaphysical plane, memories are fragmented and disjointed. Players must use their lasers to connect and harmonize these memories, restoring the astronaut’s sense of self.

  • Warp Through Subconscious: The astronaut’s subconscious mind is a labyrinth of mental blocks. Players must warp back to reality through these obstacles, using their lasers to clear a path.

  • Energize the Astronaut: By collecting Memory Molecules and harmonizing memories, players energize the dead astronaut, enabling it to create physical manifestations of its past.

Narrative: A Haunting Examination of Humanity

Laserlife’s narrative is a poignant exploration of what it means to be human. Through the astronaut’s memories, players witness the triumphs, failures, and existential questions that have shaped this individual’s life.

  • The Loneliness of Space: The astronaut’s journey is a solitary one, filled with the isolation and introspection that comes with being adrift in the vastness of space. Players experience the astronaut’s longing for connection and the profound sense of insignificance that can accompany such isolation.

  • The Fragility of Memory: The astronaut’s memories are fragmented and incomplete, mirroring the fallibility of human memory. Players must piece together these fragments to gain a glimpse into the astronaut’s past, but they must also confront the gaps and uncertainties that remain.

  • The Essence of Humanity: Laserlife delves into the fundamental qualities that define humanity. Through the astronaut’s experiences, players explore themes of love, loss, regret, and the indomitable spirit that drives us forward.

Technical Innovation: Lasers as a Storytelling Tool

Laserlife’s gameplay and narrative are inextricably linked through its innovative use of lasers. The lasers serve not only as a means of controlling the game world but also as a metaphor for the process of understanding and connecting with another human being.

  • Precision and Control: The analog stick controls allow for precise manipulation of the lasers, reflecting the delicate nature of memory and the need for careful exploration.

  • Light as a Metaphor: Lasers, with their ability to illuminate and reveal, symbolize the process of uncovering the astronaut’s past and shedding light on the human experience.

  • Immersive Soundscape: Laserlife’s soundscape is a symphony of ethereal melodies and ambient textures that further enhance the game’s immersive and introspective atmosphere.

Conclusion: A Journey into the Human Soul

Laserlife is a masterpiece of interactive storytelling that transcends the boundaries of traditional gaming. It is a deeply personal and thought-provoking experience that invites players to confront their own mortality, explore the nature of memory, and celebrate the indomitable spirit of humanity.

Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to interactive storytelling, Laserlife is an unforgettable journey that will leave a lasting impact on your mind and heart. Turn down the lights, turn up the volume, and prepare to be transported into the enigmatic realm of Laserlife, where the mysteries of the human soul await your discovery.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Tharsis (2016)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 7 minutes read

Summary

Tharsis (2016): A Space Odyssey of Survival, Strategy, and Sacrifice

In the annals of space exploration, the name Tharsis stands as a chilling reminder of the perils and sacrifices that accompany humanity’s quest to reach the stars. Tharsis, a turn-based space strategy game released in 2016, puts players in control of humanity’s first manned mission to Mars, a mission that quickly descends into a harrowing struggle for survival amidst a micrometeoroid storm, dwindling resources, and the unforgiving nature of space.

A Space Odyssey Gone Awry

Tharsis begins with the premise of humanity’s first manned mission to Mars, a momentous event that captures the world’s attention. Players take on the role of the mission’s commander, tasked with guiding a crew of six astronauts through the challenges of space travel. However, as the mission approaches Mars, disaster strikes. A micrometeoroid storm pummels the spacecraft, causing catastrophic damage and setting the stage for a desperate fight for survival.

Dice and Cannibalism: The Grim Realities of Space

Tharsis is a game that doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of space exploration. Players must carefully manage their resources, including oxygen, food, and fuel, while also dealing with the physical and psychological toll that space travel takes on the crew. The game’s innovative use of dice adds an element of uncertainty to each decision, reflecting the unpredictable nature of space exploration.

As the mission progresses, players will face increasingly difficult choices. Food shortages may force them to consider cannibalism, while dwindling oxygen supplies might necessitate sacrificing a crew member to save the others. Tharsis doesn’t offer easy answers, and players must weigh the moral implications of their decisions carefully.

Whispers from Mars: Cryptic Signals and Ancient Warnings

Adding to the game’s atmosphere of tension and dread are cryptic signals and warnings emanating from Mars. As the crew investigates these signals, they uncover fragments of an ancient Martian civilization, a civilization that may hold the key to their survival or their doom.

These signals add a layer of mystery and intrigue to Tharsis, hinting at a larger cosmic drama unfolding behind the scenes. Players must decipher the meaning of these signals while also navigating the immediate threats that face their crew.

A Test of Strategy, Resilience, and Humanity

Tharsis is a game that tests players’ strategic skills, resilience, and humanity. Players must make difficult decisions, manage their resources wisely, and keep their crew alive amidst seemingly insurmountable odds. The game’s branching narrative and multiple endings ensure that each playthrough is unique, offering a fresh set of challenges and moral dilemmas.

Whether you succeed in guiding your crew to safety or succumb to the unforgiving nature of space, Tharsis is a thought-provoking and immersive experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It is a game that explores the limits of human endurance, the frailty of our bodies, and the indomitable spirit that drives us to reach for the stars.

Key Features of Tharsis

  • Turn-based space strategy gameplay with dice-based mechanics
  • A gripping narrative that explores the perils and sacrifices of space exploration
  • A crew of six astronauts with unique skills and personalities
  • A branching narrative with multiple endings
  • Cryptic signals and warnings from Mars that add an element of mystery and intrigue
  • A haunting and atmospheric soundtrack that enhances the game’s immersive experience

Critical Reception and Legacy

Tharsis received critical acclaim upon its release, with reviewers praising its innovative gameplay, gripping narrative, and thought-provoking themes. The game was nominated for several awards, including the Golden Joystick Award for Best Strategy Game and the BAFTA Games Award for Best Game Design.

Tharsis has also left a lasting legacy in the gaming community. Its unique blend of strategy, survival, and moral dilemmas has inspired other games, and its exploration of the human condition in the face of adversity continues to resonate with players today.

Conclusion

Tharsis (2016) is a masterpiece of space strategy gaming that combines innovative gameplay, a gripping narrative, and thought-provoking themes to create a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned space exploration enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Tharsis is a game that will challenge your strategic skills, test your resilience, and leave you pondering the limits of human endurance and the indomitable spirit that drives us to reach for the stars.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Woah Dave! (2014)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Woah Dave! (2014): A Frantic Alien-Blasting Extravaganza

From the minds behind the beloved BIT.TRIP series, Woah Dave! is a chaotic, high-energy arcade-style shooter that will test your reflexes and send your heart pounding. Strap yourself in for an unforgettable adventure filled with alien invasions, explosive blocks, and a healthy dose of insanity.

Gameplay: A Symphony of Mayhem

Woah Dave! thrusts you into the shoes of the titular Dave Lonuts, a hapless hero facing an overwhelming alien invasion. Your mission? To survive the onslaught, collect as many shiny pennies as possible, and emerge as the ultimate Dave.

The gameplay is a non-stop barrage of action. You’ll hurl alien eggs, detonate skull bombs, and launch explosive WOAH blocks to fend off the relentless alien hordes. Each level is a carefully crafted symphony of chaos, with enemies swarming from every corner and hazards lurking around every turn.

Competitive Multiplayer: Dave vs. Dave

The madness doesn’t end there. Woah Dave! on Steam and PS4 introduces a thrilling local two-player competitive mode. Pit yourself against a fellow Dave in a head-to-head battle for coin supremacy. Prepare for intense rivalry, strategic sabotage, and the potential for shattered friendships and broken marriages.

Bonkers Mode: The Ultimate Dave Challenge

If you crave an even greater challenge, dive into Bonkers Mode. This unforgiving realm cranks up the intensity with more aliens, more lava, and a relentless barrage of obstacles. Only the most skilled and daring Daves will emerge victorious, earning a treasure trove of precious coinage. Those who fail…well, let’s just say their Dave License may be revoked.

Visuals: A Neon-Drenched Masterpiece

Woah Dave!’s visuals are a vibrant explosion of neon colors and geometric shapes. The screen pulsates with energy as alien ships descend, bombs explode, and WOAH blocks shatter into a thousand pieces. It’s a visual feast that perfectly complements the game’s frenetic gameplay.

Music: A Soundtrack to Insanity

The soundtrack of Woah Dave! is a pulse-pounding, adrenaline-pumping masterpiece. Electronic beats blend seamlessly with catchy melodies, creating an infectious rhythm that drives you through the chaotic levels. Each track is a sonic representation of the game’s over-the-top action, keeping you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Critical Reception: A Dave-Approved Success

Upon its release, Woah Dave! received critical acclaim for its frantic gameplay, addictive multiplayer, and stunning visuals. Reviewers praised the game’s ability to deliver non-stop action and endless replayability. Here’s a snippet from a glowing review:

“Woah Dave! is a chaotic masterpiece that will keep you coming back for more. Its frantic gameplay, addictive multiplayer, and vibrant visuals make it an instant classic.” – IGN

Legacy: A Dave for the Ages

Since its release, Woah Dave! has cemented its place as a beloved indie classic. Its unique blend of arcade-style action, competitive multiplayer, and over-the-top visuals has resonated with gamers worldwide. The game has inspired countless speedruns, high-score competitions, and even fan-made tributes.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Dave Experience

Woah Dave! is a game that defies categorization. It’s a chaotic, exhilarating, and utterly addictive experience that will leave you grinning from ear to ear. Whether you’re a seasoned arcade enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, Woah Dave! is an essential title that will provide hours of frantic entertainment. So gather your friends, embrace the insanity, and prepare to become the ultimate Dave.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Destructamundo (2015)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Destructamundo: A Symphony of Explosions and Cosmic Carnage

In the realm of video games, where creativity and destruction intertwine, there exists a title that embodies the raw power and chaotic beauty of unbridled explosions: Destructamundo. Released in 2015, this game is a testament to the exhilarating thrill of triggering massive chain reactions that obliterate entire planetary systems.

Gameplay: A Chain Reaction Masterpiece

Destructamundo’s gameplay revolves around a simple yet addictive concept: set off a warhead and watch the fireworks as you cause as much widespread damage as possible. The game presents you with a variety of planetary systems, each meticulously crafted with intricate celestial bodies and gravitational forces. Your objective is to strategically place warheads on these planets and moons, triggering a domino effect of explosions that cascade through the cosmos.

The key to success in Destructamundo lies in understanding the delicate balance of physics and timing. Each warhead you detonate sends out a shockwave that can affect nearby planets and moons, causing them to collide, shatter, or even be flung out of their orbits. By carefully calculating the placement and timing of your warheads, you can create intricate chain reactions that reach throughout the solar system, culminating in a spectacular display of cosmic destruction.

Cosmic Canvas of Destruction

The visuals in Destructamundo are a mesmerizing spectacle of vibrant explosions and shattered celestial bodies. As you trigger each chain reaction, the screen erupts in a symphony of colors and light. Planets explode in fiery brilliance, moons shatter into countless fragments, and asteroids hurtle through space like celestial shrapnel. The game’s physics engine ensures that every explosion is unique, creating a constantly evolving and unpredictable cosmic canvas.

Adding to the visual feast, Destructamundo features a dynamic soundtrack that perfectly complements the explosive gameplay. The music swells and crescendos as you set off each warhead, reaching a fever pitch as the chain reactions escalate to their cataclysmic finale. The sound design is equally impressive, with thunderous explosions, shattering glass, and the eerie silence of space creating an immersive and exhilarating audio experience.

Medals and Mayhem

While causing widespread cosmic destruction may seem inherently satisfying, Destructamundo adds an extra layer of challenge and replayability with its medal system. Each level has a set of objectives that you must complete to earn gold medals. These objectives range from destroying a certain number of planets to triggering a chain reaction that reaches a specific distance.

Earning gold medals not only grants you bragging rights but also unlocks new levels and challenges. As you progress through the game, the levels become increasingly complex, requiring you to master the art of timing and precision to achieve the coveted gold medal.

Cosmic Conundrum: Survival of the Fittest

Beneath the chaotic and explosive gameplay of Destructamundo lies a deeper narrative that explores the themes of survival and the fragility of existence. The game’s backstory reveals that humanity has been forced to abandon Earth due to an impending cosmic cataclysm. As the last remnants of our species, it is up to you to find a new home among the stars.

However, the universe is a vast and unforgiving place, and resources are scarce. To secure the survival of your species, you must embark on a desperate mission to harvest energy from other planetary systems. And what better way to do that than by obliterating them with strategically placed warheads?

Destructamundo: A Unique and Explosive Experience

In the pantheon of video games, Destructamundo stands as a unique and unforgettable experience. Its blend of addictive gameplay, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking narrative creates a captivating and chaotic adventure that will leave you exhilarated and craving for more. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the world of explosive entertainment, Destructamundo is a must-play title that will ignite your senses and leave an indelible mark on your gaming memories.

Review Score

8/10

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