Title: I Want To Be Human: A Quirky Retro Platformer that Falls Short
I Want To Be Human, developed by Sinclair Strange and published by Rising Star Games, attempts to capture the essence of classic retro platformers while delivering a unique and quirky narrative. Unfortunately, this fusion of old-school charm and modern storytelling falls short of its ambitions, resulting in a game that struggles to find its identity.
The game's story, though initially intriguing, quickly veers into bizarre territory. The tale revolves around a boy who falls in love with a vampire girl, only to be transformed into a hat by nefarious forces looking to conquer the world. While the premise sounds intriguing, the narrative often becomes convoluted and lacks the necessary cohesiveness to fully engage players.
Visually, I Want To Be Human successfully channels nostalgic vibes, evoking memories of pixelated sprites and vibrant color palettes reminiscent of classic gaming eras. The 2D platforming sections are well-crafted, with a good amount of variety in the level design. Each stage offers its own set of challenges, keeping players on their toes as they navigate through the game's quirky world.
One of the standout features of I Want To Be Human is its dynamic soundtrack. The game boasts an impressive selection of chiptune tracks, each perfectly complementing the on-screen action. The retro-inspired music adds an extra layer of immersion, transporting players back to the golden age of gaming.
However, the game's shortcomings become evident in its gameplay mechanics. While the platforming sections are solid, the controls often feel clunky and unresponsive. Precise jumps and swift movements, which are essential for success in this genre, are frustratingly difficult to execute. This lack of fluidity becomes a major hindrance, robbing the game of the joy and satisfaction that retro platformers should deliver.
Furthermore, I Want To Be Human suffers from a lack of innovation in its gameplay mechanics. The game relies heavily on tried-and-tested platforming conventions without introducing anything fresh or exciting. This lack of originality, coupled with the frustrating controls, makes the game feel repetitive and ultimately leads to a sense of tedium.
In conclusion, while I Want To Be Human attempts to capture the essence of retro platformers, it falls short of delivering a truly satisfying gameplay experience. The game's quirky narrative and nostalgic visuals certainly hit the mark, but the clunky controls and lack of innovation prevent it from reaching its full potential. Retro gaming enthusiasts may find moments of enjoyment in this title, but for most, it fails to leave a lasting impression.
