Summary

Release Year: 2012
Genres: Indie, Platform, Puzzle
Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox 360
Developers: Smudged Cat Games
Publishers: Smudged Cat Games

Gateways (2012): A Unique and Challenging Platformer

Gateways is a 2D platformer released in 2012 that stands out from the crowd with its unique puzzle elements and challenging gameplay. Players take control of Ed, an inventor who must escape his lab after his experiments go awry.

The game’s main mechanic is the gateway gun, which allows Ed to place two gateways on the walls, floors, and ceilings of the lab. When Ed passes through one gateway, he emerges from the other. This mechanic opens up a wide range of possibilities for puzzle-solving and creative platforming.

For example, Ed can use the gateway gun to reach high platforms, cross gaps, and even travel through time. As the game progresses, Ed acquires new types of gateway guns with different effects. One gun creates two gateways of different sizes, allowing Ed to shrink or grow in size. Another gun creates a gateway that connects to a different time period, allowing Ed to interact with past versions of himself.

In addition to the gateway guns, Ed also has access to a torch and a mirror. The torch can be used to light up dark areas of the lab, while the mirror can be used to deflect lasers. These items add even more depth and variety to the gameplay.

Gateways takes place on a single sprawling map that is packed with puzzles and challenges. As Ed acquires new power-ups, more and more of the map opens up, revealing new areas to explore and new secrets to discover.

The game’s difficulty is fairly high, but it is also very fair. The puzzles are challenging but not impossible, and the checkpoints are placed generously. This makes Gateways a rewarding experience for players who are willing to put in the effort.

The Gateway Guns

The gateway guns are the heart of Gateways’ gameplay. They allow Ed to perform a variety of actions that would be impossible in a traditional platformer.

Basic Gateway Gun: This gun creates two gateways of the same size. Ed can use this gun to reach high platforms, cross gaps, and solve puzzles.
Size-Changing Gateway Gun: This gun creates two gateways of different sizes. Ed can use this gun to shrink or grow in size, which can be used to solve puzzles and access new areas.
Time-Traveling Gateway Gun: This gun creates a gateway that connects to a different time period. Ed can use this gun to interact with past versions of himself, which can be used to solve puzzles and change the course of events.
Gravity-Manipulating Gateway Gun: This gun creates a gateway that manipulates gravity. Ed can use this gun to walk on walls and ceilings, which can be used to solve puzzles and access new areas.

The Lab

The lab is a sprawling and dangerous place. It is filled with puzzles, traps, and enemies. Ed must use all of his skills and abilities to navigate the lab and escape.

The lab is divided into a number of different sections, each with its own unique challenges. The first section is a relatively straightforward platforming section. However, as Ed progresses through the lab, the puzzles become more complex and the enemies become more dangerous.

The Verdict

Gateways is a unique and challenging platformer that is sure to please fans of the genre. The game’s innovative gameplay mechanics, challenging puzzles, and sprawling world make it a must-play for any gamer looking for a new challenge.