Antenna
- April 7, 2016
- LWNA
"Antenna" is a sound-based puzzle game where players use a machine to scan the radio spectrum and respond to its existential questions. The game requires a US keyboard layout and a mouse with a wheel for optimal play. Players should ensure they have sound on, as the puzzles are audio-based.
Reviews
- The game features beautiful graphics and a calming atmosphere, making it visually appealing.
- Puzzles are designed to provide just enough direction, encouraging players to think critically and solve them independently.
- It's a free game that offers a short but enjoyable experience, making it a good option for casual play.
- The game is very short, with a playtime of only about 20-30 minutes, which may leave players wanting more.
- Many players found the puzzles confusing and lacking clear instructions, often requiring external guides to complete.
- The gameplay is basic and lacks depth, leading some to feel it doesn't qualify as a full game experience.
- graphics6 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are frequently praised for their beautiful and unique art style, reminiscent of xkcd interactives, with a nearly monochromatic palette that enhances the atmosphere. While the visuals are appreciated, some reviewers feel that the game's lack of depth detracts from the overall experience, suggesting that the graphics may be the standout feature rather than the gameplay itself.
“Very short game, with beautiful graphics.”
“Love the art style of the game but not sure if there is a meaning behind the game.”
“Artwork, atmosphere and sound are actually nice, it's just not a game.”
“The graphics reminded me of the xkcd interactives, especially the monochromatic style and the exploration on a line without knowing what to expect.”
“I love the art style of the game, but I'm not sure if there is any meaning behind it.”
- atmosphere5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 40 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is described as minimal yet effective, creating a calm and lonely environment that some players appreciate. While the artwork and sound contribute positively to the atmosphere, the reliance on on-screen cues detracts from the overall intuitiveness of the experience, leading some to suggest that it lacks depth as a game.
“The world is never explained, but the devs succeed in creating a very calm, lonely atmosphere that I appreciate.”
“Artwork, atmosphere, and sound are actually nice; it's just not a game.”
“If you'd like an atmospheric, visually and mechanically interesting game, play the old tree.”
“There was atmosphere, but it was minimal (in feeling, not just design), and the fact that every action the player takes must be directed with on-screen cues reflects the fact that without them, this game wouldn't make sense - it's just not intuitive.”
“The world is never explained, but the developers succeed in creating a very calm, lonely atmosphere that I appreciate.”
- gameplay4 mentions
- 75 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The gameplay is described as basic and short, lasting only 20-30 minutes, with limited engagement beyond a couple of interesting mechanics like the radio. While it offers some unique elements, it ultimately lacks depth and fails to sustain player interest throughout the experience.
“If you'd like an atmospheric, visually and mechanically interesting game, play the old tree.”
“It's a short and interesting game with some different mechanics from what we are used to.”
“Gameplay itself is very basic and only about 20-30 minutes total if going for the achievements.”
“Gameplay itself is very basic and only lasts about 20-30 minutes if you're going for the achievements.”
“The mechanics feel clunky and unrefined, making it frustrating to enjoy the game.”
“There is a lack of depth in the gameplay, which quickly leads to boredom.”
- humor1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is derived from the amusing contrast between the naive perspectives of inexperienced players and the game's perceived complexity, highlighting the often humorous misunderstandings that arise in their attempts to grasp its deeper meanings.
“It's hilarious to watch the kids who know nothing about life trying to figure this game out as if it had some deeper or complex meaning.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game is criticized for having little to no replay value, suggesting that once completed, players may not find enough incentive to revisit it.
“There is no replay value.”
“The game lacks any incentive to play again after finishing it.”
“Once you complete the game, there's little reason to return.”
- music1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game features no music, which may leave players feeling a lack of auditory engagement during gameplay.
“There is no music in the game.”
“The absence of music really detracts from the overall experience.”
“I was disappointed to find that there is no soundtrack at all.”