SHRUBNAUT

As people tend to say on a regular basis, it doesn’t take much to catch someone’s attention in the entertainment industry. The same is true for video games, because a simple core concept can bring you a huge audience, regardless of the fact that the rest of the game is in a deplorable state. Hence, it’s good to start with an original concept, because everything else can be mended along the way.

SHRUBNAUT is a simple 2D platformer in which your goal is to explore a lively environment and solve a few simple puzzles. It’s a short game with not much of a story, but the idea is certainly worth your attention, especially if you are a fan of platformers. The gameplay is quite smooth and refined, which makes it a pleasure to run around and explore the world.

The whole action takes place on a rather small map, although it’s pretty tough to navigate it due to various reasons. Some sections are hidden, while others are very difficult to reach unless you get really familiar with your character’s special ability, namely the grappling hook. As such, you can grapple into green surfaces and move around with ease.

There are a handful of checkpoints around the map that can be activated, which come in handy if you ever need to teleport between them. You can also view the map while you’re at it, and it’s all a continuous blob of platforms and pits. It’s also mandatory that you pick up glowing gems, as well as use cubes to activate switches and open locked doors. In short, you can have fun with some puzzles as well.

As for the controls, you can rest assured that you probably won’t have any major trouble getting the most out of your character and his special abilities. However, it can happen that the grappling hook has a bit of nasty delay, but it’s still pretty accurate most of the time. The graphics are very relaxing and enjoyable, especially if you enjoy minimalistic retro visuals.

In the end, SHRUBNAUT is a pretty short and empty experience, but it features great gameplay mechanics and an intriguing map. Hence, platformer fans should really appreciate it, albeit only for a couple of minutes.