Retrostasis

Platformers are usually complicated enough by themselves, especially if they target a hardcore audience. However, you can add more elements to the equation and make the whole thing a lot more challenging, at least if you truly want to annoy the players. Hence, a puzzle platformer is one of the most frustrating things out there, at least if it is designed right.

Retrostasis is a puzzle platformer in which you control a robot that must search for various parts in order to build another robot. The idea is quite basic in itself, but the gameplay is very challenging and demanding, especially if you want to make it to the end of the adventure. There are many small gimmicks that stop you from having an easy time navigating the levels.

To begin with, the robot consumes energy whenever you use some kind of special ability, which includes jumping, sprinting or activating objects. Since you have a finite amount of energy you can spend, it’s mandatory that you calculate every jump and every sprint, otherwise you’ll die and restart the level. Granted, there are recharging stations you can use to replenish your energy.

Most levels provide you with a series of traps you must face and overcome, which includes falling platforms, laser beams you must run from, as well as classic gaps you must jump over. However, unlike in most platformers where you can just practice your jumping and get it right, each move must be calculated beforehand, which is that much more challenging.

As far as the graphics are concerned, the game is almost monochromatic, which is not at all a bad thing. I can be rather difficult to figure out the environment sometimes, but it’s usually pretty simple to navigate. The controls are responsive and accurate as well, especially since you need to trust them in order to make it over most obstacles in one piece.

Although Retrostasis could certainly be developed into something better in time, it’s not yet up there as of right now. Hence, while the idea is neat and engaging, the experience is just too short to give judge it fairly.