Anode
- October 4, 2015
- Kittehface Software
- 5h median play time
"Anode" is an arcade-style puzzle game that offers both single-player and local multi-player modes for 2 players. In the game, players align and detonate colored blocks to create chains and eliminate gaps, with the option to link blocks back and forth and match angled couplers for extra challenges. Multi-player mode allows for competitive play, with players sending blocks to their opponent's side and using offensive items to gain an advantage. The game includes a mission mode with random objectives and leaderboards for players to compare their scores.
Reviews
- Anode offers a fresh twist on the classic Tetris formula with engaging mechanics that allow for diagonal connections and chain detonations.
- The game features a variety of modes, including Endless, Mission, and Time Attack, providing ample replayability and challenges for players.
- It has a solid technical performance with colorful graphics and satisfying sound design, making it enjoyable to play for extended periods.
- The lack of online multiplayer is a significant drawback, limiting the multiplayer experience to local play only.
- Some players have reported difficulty distinguishing between certain colors, which can hinder gameplay, especially for those who are colorblind.
- The game can feel random at times due to the block generation system, leading to frustrating moments where players may not receive the necessary pieces to continue effectively.
- gameplay15 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The gameplay is a well-crafted evolution of classic puzzle mechanics, reminiscent of Tetris but enhanced with unique features like color linking for scoring. It offers a smooth and rewarding experience, making it accessible for beginners while providing depth for experienced players seeking high scores. The mechanics are intuitive and engaging, with various modes that add layers of challenge and strategy.
“It is well thought out and every mechanic is logically derived from its predecessor, Tetris.”
“It adds several smart layers of puzzle mechanics that make for a dynamic and challenging game.”
“The style of gameplay makes it easy to learn and get the hang of it, and those with more experience can use that knowledge to risk losing it all for big points and helpful items.”
“The game is similar to Tetris or Columns in that rows of colored blocks fall from the sky, but there are different mechanics.”
“While this is a review and not a game summary, it's hard to review this game without actually reviewing the core mechanics.”
“Like Panel de Pon/Tetris Attack, though, once you get used to the game's mechanics, cascading clears will become fairly easy to set up and the game will become more or less instinctive to play.”
- music7 mentions
- 57 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 43 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally well-received, featuring a dynamic techno soundtrack that enhances the gameplay experience, especially as the tempo increases with progression. While players appreciate the sound quality and find it suitable for immersion, many suggest that it may become repetitive over time, leading them to prefer their own music after extended play. Overall, it serves as a fitting accompaniment, particularly for a potential mobile version.
“It looks fine, the sound and music are excellent for zoning out to, and it plays smooth with familiar controls for this kind of game.”
“I liked the music and I enjoyed the Tetris feel to it.”
“If it gets a mobile port, though, the music is a pretty good companion to the game.”
“The soundtrack is pretty alright too.”
“It's a dynamic soundtrack of otherwise repetitive techno that amps up in tempo as you reach the top of the screen.”
“That said, you'll probably end up turning it off after an hour or so and just listening to your own music.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game are characterized by a mix of simplicity and vibrant colors, appealing to the eye with slick designs and modern styles. However, some users feel that the overall quality is fairly poor and appears dated, detracting from the visual experience.
“The slick graphics make it very appealing to the eye.”
“Anode is well made with colorful graphics and different objectives within the game.”
“With the addition of exciting new modes and a more modern graphical style.”
“The graphics are fairly poor and look dated.”
- story5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The game's story aspect is minimal, focusing instead on a variety of engaging game modes such as endless, mission, time attack, and multiplayer, which provide a fun and relaxing experience. Players appreciate the structured progression in modes like mission, where speed is determined by completed tasks rather than a constant increase, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional gameplay. Overall, the narrative is less about a storyline and more about the enjoyment of diverse gameplay experiences.
“This mode is preferable to the traditional endless mode for me because the speed doesn't just steadily creep upward and is dictated by how many missions you complete instead.”
“Other modes serve as nice variety like mission mode, time attack, and others.”
“End of story.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -300 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game offers significant replayability, though it may vary based on individual attention spans.
“Has plenty of replayability; it just depends on your attention span.”
“The game offers a variety of choices that make each playthrough feel unique.”
“With multiple endings and different character paths, you'll find yourself coming back for more.”
“Has plenty of replayability, just depends on your attention span.”