Ad Fundum
- June 13, 2024
- Oldbut Gold
"Ad Fundum" is a game set in the Age of Diesel, where you pilot a massive drilling mech to mine valuable resources in the Earth's depths. Sell minerals for profit, manage your mech's fuel and temperature, and avoid hazards to fund the restoration of your base. The game offers enhanced mining performance and base rebuilding, with the threat of conflict looming in the background.
Reviews
- Satisfying progression and upgrades that enhance the gameplay experience.
- Captures the nostalgic feel of Motherload while introducing new mechanics and challenges.
- Engaging and addictive gameplay loop that keeps players invested for hours.
- The game can become repetitive and lacks variety in gameplay elements.
- Limited replayability and challenges once the main story is completed.
- Some mechanics can lead to frustrating moments, such as instant-death scenarios without clear explanations.
- story39 mentions
- 49 % positive mentions
- 44 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The game's story receives mixed reviews, with some players appreciating its depth and character development, likening it to a well-crafted movie, while others feel it complicates the otherwise simple and enjoyable gameplay focused on mining and exploration. Many players noted the presence of multiple endings and choices that enhance the narrative experience, but some expressed indifference towards the story, prioritizing gameplay over plot. Overall, the story is seen as a solid addition, though not essential for enjoyment.
“Amazing game, I finished it in one session because the gameplay loop was so addictive, without any frustrating mechanics and the story was great too.”
“The story is more developed than any movie from Netflix.”
“If you're someone who grew up with games like Motherload, then I'm certain you will become a massive fan of this game; it's a lot of the same, but with an amazing story, great characters, and great plot twists.”
“Too much of a push for a story when the game is just a simple, chill thing.”
“The story I was not interested in at all.”
“I don't think that really matters, as I wasn't playing this game for the story.”
- gameplay32 mentions
- 41 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The gameplay is highly praised for its addictive loop and depth, with players enjoying the resource collection mechanics and diverse biomes that keep the experience fresh for many hours. While some found the tutorial lacking, the overall mechanics are engaging and rewarding, with smooth progression and constant updates from the developers. Despite occasional grindiness, the game successfully captures the essence of its spiritual predecessor, offering a satisfying and enjoyable experience.
“Amazing game, I finished it in one session because the gameplay loop was so addictive, without any frustrating mechanics and the story was great too.”
“The depth of gameplay is where this game shines.”
“Game mechanics are fun, progression is smooth and addicting, and the dev is pretty awesome and constantly updating and listening to feedback.”
“I found the tutorial pretty bare bones and I felt like I had to fend for myself with some mechanics.”
“Some parts of it can certainly seem grindy at times, but that's pretty central to the gameplay - you're picking up rocks to sell to get better at picking up rocks.”
“Doing that after the fact revealed gameplay mechanics that I was able to intuit on my own, but I did miss out on some content.”
- music10 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its ability to enhance the atmosphere and convey the right emotions, reminiscent of the original soundtrack. Players appreciate the innovative integration of music with gameplay mechanics, such as gravity changes, which adds a unique layer to the experience. Overall, the soundtrack contributes significantly to the game's appeal, making it a standout feature.
“So far so good, loving the music and atmosphere.”
“One of the best games of this genre, I am loving it so far, everything from the looks to the music and the story. Play the demo, and if you liked it, buy it.”
“The music reminded me a lot of the original and conveyed the right tone at the right places.”
“One of the best games of this genre, I am loving it so far, everything from the looks to the music and the story, play the demo and if you liked it, buy it.”
- grinding6 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players note that the early game can feel slow and grindy, but the pace picks up as new tools and abilities are unlocked, preventing the mining experience from becoming monotonous. While some grinding is inherent to the gameplay, it serves as a core mechanic where players collect resources to enhance their capabilities.
“Some parts of it can certainly seem grindy at times, but that's pretty central to the gameplay - you're picking up rocks to sell to get better at picking up rocks.”
“Early game might be a little bit slow and grindy, but after that it goes faster.”
- replayability5 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 20 % neutral mentions
- 80 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's replayability is considered lacking, with many players noting a bland ending and limited incentives to replay. While there are some achievements to pursue, they do not significantly enhance the game's overall replay value.
“The game's replayability, as of now, is not great.”
“The ending is kind of bland, and there is not much replayability.”
“There isn't too much replay value, but the Steam achievements are worthy.”
- humor2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is characterized by its lighthearted and amusing take on the concept of a robot digging adventure, providing players with a fun and entertaining experience.
“This game is a hilarious adventure with a quirky robot digging for treasures!”
“The humor in this robot digging game is absolutely delightful and keeps you laughing!”
“I love the witty dialogue and funny scenarios that unfold as you dig with your robot!”
- stability2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Users report that the game exhibits some stability issues, particularly when using a controller, indicating a slightly buggy experience.
“The game is a bit buggy when using a controller.”
“The game is a bit buggy when using a controller.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Users consistently praise the game's atmosphere, highlighting the music as a key element that enhances their overall experience. The combination of sound and environment creates an engaging and immersive setting that players appreciate.
“So far so good, loving the music and atmosphere.”
- graphics1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics are praised for their quality, contributing to an enjoyable experience alongside engaging writing and fun mech controls.
“The graphics are really solid, and controlling the mech is extremely fun.”
“The visuals are stunning, creating an immersive experience that draws you into the game world.”
“The art style is beautifully crafted, making every scene a visual delight.”