VVVVVV (2010)

by Christopher September 30, 2020

written by Christopher September 30, 2020 7 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 2010
Genres: Adventure, Arcade, Indie, Platform, Puzzle
Platforms: Android, iOS, Linux, Mac, Nintendo 3DS, Nintendo Switch, Ouya, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita
Developers: Distractionware, Terry Cavanagh
Publishers: Distractionware, Nicalis, Inc., Terry Cavanagh

VVVVVV: A Gravity-Flipping Masterpiece

Released in 2010, VVVVVV is a unique and challenging platformer that has garnered a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. Developed by Terry Cavanagh, the game puts players in control of Captain Viridian, a space explorer who must navigate a series of treacherous levels by flipping the direction of gravity.

Gameplay

VVVVVV’s gameplay is deceptively simple. Captain Viridian can only move left and right, and he can flip the direction of gravity by pressing the up or down arrow key. This allows him to walk on the floor, the ceiling, or any other surface in between.

The game’s levels are filled with a variety of obstacles, including spikes, lasers, and moving platforms. Players must use their gravity-flipping abilities to overcome these obstacles and reach the end of each level.

VVVVVV’s difficulty is gradually ramped up throughout the game’s 40 levels. The later levels become increasingly complex and challenging, requiring players to master the game’s mechanics and use their wits to solve puzzles.

Graphics and Sound

VVVVVV’s graphics are simple but effective. The game’s pixel art is reminiscent of classic 8-bit games, but it has been updated with modern effects such as parallax scrolling and 3D lighting. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of chiptune and ambient music that perfectly complements the game’s atmosphere.

Story

VVVVVV’s story is simple but effective. Captain Viridian is on a mission to rescue his crew members and save a dimension on the brink of destruction. The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes that are interspersed between the levels.

Reception

VVVVVV was met with critical acclaim upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, challenging levels, and beautiful graphics. VVVVVV has been featured on numerous “best of” lists and has won several awards, including the Independent Games Festival Award for Excellence in Design.

Legacy

VVVVVV has had a significant impact on the indie game scene. The game’s unique gravity-flipping mechanic has been imitated by a number of other games, and VVVVVV has helped to popularize the retro platformer genre.

VVVVVV is a challenging but rewarding game that is sure to appeal to fans of retro platformers and puzzle games. With its innovative gameplay, beautiful graphics, and excellent soundtrack, VVVVVV is a must-play for any gamer.

Tips for Playing VVVVVV

Master the gravity-flipping mechanic. This is the key to overcoming the game’s obstacles and solving puzzles.
Be patient. Some of the levels in VVVVVV are very challenging. Don’t get discouraged if you get stuck. Take your time and experiment with different solutions.
Use the rewind feature. If you make a mistake, you can rewind time and try again. This can be very helpful for getting through difficult sections of the game.
Explore every nook and cranny. There are many hidden secrets in VVVVVV. Be sure to explore every level thoroughly to find all of the collectibles and unlock the bonus levels.

Additional Information

VVVVVV is available on PC, Mac, Linux, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, and Nintendo Switch.
The game has been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Ouya, the Amazon Fire TV, and the Raspberry Pi.
VVVVVV has been translated into a number of languages, including French, German, Spanish, and Japanese.
The game has been featured in a number of speedrunning competitions. The current world record for completing the game is 10 minutes and 38 seconds.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.