8 Ball
- March 25, 2018
- One Buck
- 1h median play time
Get on Steam"8 Ball" is a pool simulation game where players can compete in casual or ranked matches against AI or human opponents. It features realistic physics and easy-to-use controls, allowing players to perform various shots and tricks. The game also offers customization options for the tables and cues, as well as various game modes such as 8-ball and 9-ball.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game offers a unique and emotional experience, encouraging players to reflect on life's struggles and the nature of existence.
- Despite its simplicity, the gameplay presents a challenging experience that can be gratifying when overcoming obstacles.
- The minimalist design and lack of hand-holding tutorials invite introspection and contemplation, making it a memorable journey.
- The controls are clunky and unresponsive, making navigation frustrating and often leading to unfair gameplay experiences.
- The game lacks basic quality-of-life features such as checkpoints, which can result in long, tedious retries after failures.
- Many players find the graphics and overall presentation to be subpar, contributing to a less enjoyable gaming experience.
- gameplay25 mentions
- 32 % positive mentions
- 56 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
Gameplay reviews are mixed, with some players finding the controls stiff and imprecise, leading to a janky experience that detracts from enjoyment. Conversely, others praise the gameplay for its depth, emotional resonance, and engaging mechanics, particularly in games like "8 ball," which offers a rewarding billiards experience with unlockable content and replayability. Overall, while some aspects of gameplay may feel underdeveloped, many players appreciate the philosophical themes and immersive experiences that certain titles provide.
“From the moment one embarks upon this journey, it becomes evident that One Buck, the sagacious architect of this digital odyssey, has imbued every pixel with intention and every mechanic with meaning.”
“The gameplay truly stands on its own.”
“The story, intense gameplay, life-risking moments, all of it makes for an amazing experience for all to enjoy.”
“It's janky and unsatisfying to play... and any experienced gamer will tell you, the handling, responsiveness, and general gameplay feel of the control scheme must be well polished for this kind of game to succeed.”
“Unfortunately, this is something the developer seems to have phoned in, with little to no apparent gameplay testing.”
“8ball received generally favorable reviews from critics, who saw it as a unique experience and praised its voice acting, soundtrack, and graphics, although many were polarized by its gameplay and story.”
- graphics13 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The graphics of "8 Ball" have received mixed reviews, with some players praising their realism and immersive quality, while others criticize the lack of resolution options and overall design. Although the game does not push graphical boundaries, it is noted for its detailed backgrounds and aesthetic appeal, contributing to a unique experience. Overall, while not universally acclaimed, the graphics are seen as a strong point by many, enhancing the gameplay despite some negative opinions.
“The graphics were so realistic it felt like I was there, inside the game, living my best life.”
“The graphics rival any other game out there and the sound design really draws me in!”
“There is no story, as a story would distract from the amazing graphics and the insanely detailed background.”
“There's no option to change the resolution and no useful graphics tweaks.”
“The graphics and game designs are terrible; it's the worst game I've played. Whoever made this should not make video games anymore. Plus, the characters look ridiculous with little sticks for legs.”
“While '8 ball' doesn't push the boundaries of graphical prowess, it's important to note that it doesn't need to.”
- story12 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The story in the game is described as initially lacking but enriched through implied lore, allowing for a dynamic and personalized experience. While some players found the narrative compelling and emotionally impactful, others felt it was overshadowed by the game's graphics and gameplay. Overall, the story serves as a backdrop to the gameplay, with elements of escape and progression woven into the level designs.
“This game has made me cry, laugh, and watch with awe as the story of this brave 8-ball conqueror's life unfolds and defeats all the mishaps.”
“The story, intense gameplay, and life-risking moments all contribute to an amazing experience for everyone to enjoy.”
“The story is based around escaping a vast dungeon, as you are used for the entertainment of others, kings, if they should deserve that title.”
“There is no story, as a story would distract from the amazing graphics and the insanely detailed background.”
“The story is based around escaping this vast dungeon, as you are used for the entertainment of others, kings, if they should deserve that title.”
“8ball received generally favorable reviews from critics, who saw it as a unique experience and praised its voice acting, soundtrack, and graphics, although many were polarized by its gameplay and story.”
- music7 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 29 % neutral mentions
- 43 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews; while some players appreciate its ability to evoke introspection and find beauty in its melodies, others criticize it as generic and repetitive, likening it to background music found in public spaces. Critics generally view the soundtrack positively, noting it enhances the overall experience, but many feel that greater variety would better complement the game's diverse environments.
“The music flowed into my ears like butterflies in a garden.”
“It would have been nice to see more variety in the soundtrack to match the diverse locations in the game.”
“The generic music that blasts throughout the many levels reminds me of the generic music played in public places such as malls, elevators, and gyms.”
“However, the background music can become repetitive after a while.”
“The quietness of the game world—no background music to guide your emotions—encourages introspection.”
- emotional5 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players describe "8 ball" as an emotionally profound experience, likening its challenging gameplay to a journey through life's emotional ups and downs. The game evokes a wide range of feelings, from laughter to tears, as players witness the heartfelt story of the titular character overcoming obstacles. Overall, it is praised for its ability to resonate deeply with players on an emotional level.
“8 Ball is not just a game—it is an emotional pilgrimage wrapped in the guise of a 2D platformer.”
“The levels themselves, sparse and unforgiving, mirror the emotional landscapes we traverse every day: full of unexpected gaps, moments of freefall, and the occasional bump into walls we never saw coming.”
“This game has made me cry, laugh, and watch with awe as the story of this brave 8-ball conquers life and defeats all the mishaps.”
- replayability3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's replayability is highly praised, with users noting it as a significant strength. "8 ball" provides an engaging virtual billiards experience, featuring diverse content that encourages players to return for more. Overall, it scores a commendable 9/10 in this aspect.
“The game's replayability is a significant plus.”
“"8 Ball" is a delightful virtual billiards experience that offers engaging gameplay, diverse content, and excellent replayability.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is generally well-received, with many finding the joke reviews amusing; however, some caution against misinterpreting the overall tone.
“The humor in this game is top-notch, with clever jokes that keep you laughing throughout.”
“I love how the game incorporates witty dialogue and hilarious situations that never fail to amuse.”
“The comedic timing in the cutscenes is perfect, making even the most serious moments light-hearted.”
- character development1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers highlight the character development as a standout feature, praising the rich lore that enhances the depth and complexity of the characters. Players are encouraged to experience it firsthand to fully appreciate the intricate storytelling and character arcs.
“The lore is so rich in all of the character development; you have to play it to see what I mean.”
“Each character evolves in a way that feels authentic and engaging, making their journeys truly memorable.”
“The depth of each character's backstory adds layers to the gameplay, allowing for a more immersive experience.”
- stability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game has been widely criticized for its instability, with numerous users reporting significant bugs and issues, leading to a high number of negative reviews.
“Everything is buggy... thousands of thumbs down.”
“The game crashes frequently, making it nearly unplayable.”
“I experienced constant lag and glitches that ruined my experience.”
