1993 Space Machine
- March 28, 2016
- Aurora Punks
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Get on itch.io Store"1993 Space Machine" is a retro-style shoot 'em up game with 9 ships, 25 weapons, and 14 levels, all designed to look and feel like a game from the 1990s. Players can team up in co-op mode and face off against 10 bosses in this challenging and nostalgic experience. The game's story follows the interstellar wars and the notorious pirate leader Colonel N. With its genuine 90s aesthetics and intense gameplay, this game is a must-play for any retro gaming enthusiast.
Mac OS
PC
Steam Deck
Windows
Linux
PlayStation
Xbox
Reviews
- The game is a nostalgic throwback to 90s shmups, featuring charming pixel art and a satisfying retro aesthetic.
- Gameplay is enjoyable with a good balance of challenge, allowing for multiple ship and weapon upgrades, and it offers a fun co-op mode.
- The controls are tight and responsive, making it easy to pick up and play, while the music adds to the overall retro atmosphere.
- Achievements are broken and do not work, which detracts from the replay value and overall experience.
- The game is relatively short, with some players feeling it lacks depth and replayability beyond the initial playthrough.
- There are issues with controls, including a lack of customization options and some frustrating gameplay mechanics, such as having to replay difficult segments.
- graphics17 mentions
- 18 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are a nostalgic homage to the retro style of the 1990s, featuring superb pixel art and a strong xenon palette that resonates well with fans of classic titles. While some players find the visuals basic and uninspired, others appreciate the aesthetic and overall design, noting that it effectively captures the essence of the era. Overall, the graphics are well-received by retro gamers, though they may not appeal to everyone.
“Has a great overall aesthetic with an amazing OST.”
“Superb pixel graphics with a strong xenon palette.”
“Xenon 2 is still among the best looking games of that era, and while certainly different, Space Machine does bring that aesthetic feeling back.”
“Not as good as the games from the 1990s; it has terrible controls that cannot be changed, only basic ship customization, basic/uninspired graphics, and average sound.”
“All in all, I appreciate the effort and the meaning of the whole operation here, but recommending the game is no easy choice: if you are an avid retrogamer you'll probably really like its graphics; if you are a 2D shooter completist, definitely go for it; and a really diehard bullet hell fan could enjoy its different approach and unusual setting.”
“While some people might question the price tag (really, why?), in my opinion it is worth it for the art style alone; I really miss it.”
- gameplay10 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The gameplay is praised for its tight controls, challenging mechanics, and nostalgic retro feel, reminiscent of classic 90s shoot 'em up games. Players appreciate the weapon system and shield mechanics, which add depth, though some find the lack of a clear life indicator slightly frustrating. Overall, the combination of engaging gameplay, beautiful art style, and a solid soundtrack makes for an enjoyable experience, despite minor criticisms.
“Having played a ton of us-made shmup games in the 90s, I can immediately tell some of the games that inspired this one, and I'm already going to recommend it after only 20 minutes of gameplay.”
“Beautiful Bitmap Brothers feel, lovely music, and tight gameplay with film references... what more do you want from a retro title?!”
“The weapon system works wonderfully, and the shield is an interesting mechanic that allows you to tank a few hits if you've got it facing the right direction, a nice break from dying in one hit with no exceptions.”
“As for the game mechanics, you don't have a clear indication of your status (no classic energy bar) and I found this to be a little off-putting: yes, your life depends on the 8 rotating barrier dots - they regenerate after they're hit, they decrease when your ship is hit.”
“Gameplay mechanics and controls are pristine, and when you die, you know it's your own fault.”
- music9 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 11 % neutral mentions
- 22 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally well-received, with many praising its nostalgic, retro feel reminiscent of classic titles. While some reviewers feel it could be improved compared to the standout soundtracks of 90s shooters, others appreciate its charm and how it complements the gameplay. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a strong aspect of the game, enhancing the overall experience.
“Beautiful Bitmap Brothers feel, lovely music, and tight gameplay with film references... what more do you want from a retro title?!”
“The sound and music of the game was nailed perfectly.”
“+ stellar music bringing me back at least 23 years.”
“90s shooters had way better music and melodies, but this is a general problem with today's gaming.”
“I completely love the art style; however, the music could have been a little better in my opinion.”
- replayability6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's replayability is noted as a mixed aspect; while some players find it infinitely replayable and appreciate features like achievements and online leaderboards, others feel that the short length limits its replay value, suggesting it may be more worthwhile when on sale.
“The game in itself is short, but has plenty of replayability.”
“Also, there is some replay value even if you're not into hardcore mode.”
“However, I buy these titles for their replay value, which for me includes achievements or online leaderboards.”
“I recommend it if on sale, as the game is short and the replay value could be better.”
“The game itself is short, but it has plenty of replayability.”
“There is some replay value even if you're not into hardcore mode.”
- story5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 40 % negative mentions
The game features a straightforward yet engaging story that provides a sense of accomplishment upon mission completion, contributing positively to the overall experience.
“Feel really accomplished when a mission is completed.”
“Epic story.”
“The game has a simple story, but it still has a story, so that's a plus.”
“The game has a simple story, but it still has a story, so that's a plus.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -300 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game features a retro space setting that effectively creates an immersive atmosphere, complemented by well-designed environments.
“It takes place in a space setting, which really sets up a retro atmosphere with decent environments.”
“The game tries to create a unique atmosphere, but it ultimately feels flat and uninspired.”
“Despite the interesting premise, the atmosphere lacks depth and fails to immerse the player.”
“The environments are visually appealing, but they don't contribute to a cohesive atmosphere.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the emotional aspect of the game for its balanced design, which alleviates frustration by avoiding instant deaths and implementing a checkpoint system instead of traditional lives. This approach allows for a more engaging and less punishing experience, enhancing emotional investment in gameplay.
