RETSNOM

RETSNOM is a game that is especially deceptive. What seems like a simple 2D pixel art creation is actually a very creative puzzle platformer that will seriously put your noggin to the test. And I do mean head, not cup.

RETSNOM begins with a short incursion into the main story. You play as a father who has to find a cure for a deadly virus that has infected his daughter. That however will be difficult because he has to find a laboratory which is hidden behind mirrors that are found in a series of complex mazes.

It’s a very straightforward plot that makes sense and lets you dive right into the story. Expect a somewhat gloomy atmosphere that is shaped by the colors, monsters, world design and excellent choice for a soundtrack.

Solving puzzles in RETSNOM will be quite the treat. The game uses a mirror mechanic that lets you swap portions of the environment in relation to your position. Simplified, you stand in one position and pressing one key reverses the left and right sides. You will have to use this to create paths so you can reach objects, ladders and more.

It sounds simple but in a matter it’s like working with a 2D Rubik's Cube in the sense that when you create a favorable pattern it’s possible you destroy another. There will be a lot of cases when you’ll shift sides and remain without any ground to stand on resulting in a plummet into abyss, or you can end up trapped with no way out.

When the latter occurs you can start all over again by having the main character bash his head on the ground until he dies. It’s a really dark way to reset a level but it’s not the only unsettling thing you’ll find in the game.

On a closing note, RETSNOM is simple in design and simply excellent in ensemble. The puzzles are good, the way you solve them is better and everything else just falls into place.

If you like it feel free to stop by the RETSNOM Greenlight page to show your support.