ASCIILL
- February 25, 2022
- Andrei Fomin
Get on Steam"ASCIILL is a single-player action game where Special Agent ASCIILL navigates an alien temple filled with traps and creatures, all displayed in ASCII art due to electromagnetic interference. Game mechanics include route planning based on trap numbers and procedural generation of traps and treasures. The story unfolds as ASCIILL completes missions for B.O.S.S., revealing deeper interstellar conspiracies."
Reviews
- The game features beautiful ASCII graphics and an engaging soundtrack that enhances the overall experience.
- It offers a unique twist on the classic Minesweeper formula, incorporating new mechanics and challenges that keep players hooked.
- The gameplay is simple yet strategic, making it enjoyable for both casual players and those looking for a fun time killer.
- Some players find the gameplay lacks depth and does not fully utilize the added mechanics, leading to a less engaging experience.
- The controls can feel clunky and non-responsive at times, which detracts from the overall enjoyment.
- The game may not appeal to those seeking a challenging puzzle experience, as it leans more towards casual play.
- gameplay13 mentions
- 54 % positive mentions
- 23 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "asciill" is a creative evolution of the classic minesweeper formula, incorporating new mechanics, special abilities, and an engaging storyline set in a sci-fi universe. While some players feel the added elements could benefit from more innovative level design, many appreciate the increased complexity and challenge, alongside the game's appealing ASCII art and sound. Overall, it offers a unique blend of familiar and fresh gameplay experiences.
“As someone who spends a lot of time playing Minesweeper on Windows, to me this is like a fun combination of that and an old Apple II game with the added game mechanics, along with cool neon ASCII art.”
“In addition to the classic Minesweeper gameplay, Asciill adds new elements such as special abilities and power-ups, as well as an engaging storyline that immerses players in a sci-fi world of alien temples and ancient mysteries.”
“The added mechanics do not make Minesweeper that much more interesting.”
“I was hoping that the crypt mechanic would be used to create really interesting level layouts, and it would be neat if there were keys and doors or something, but those additions would need to be backed up with interesting level design.”
“Sure, the basic mechanics are like Minesweeper, but this is at such another level of complexity, interesting gameplay, and cool enemies.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The game's graphics have received praise for their outstanding quality and nostalgic retro style, particularly the ASCII design that enhances the immersive experience. Players appreciate the atmospheric soundtrack that complements the visuals, creating a coherent and visually appealing presentation despite the limitations of the graphics. Overall, the art style is considered a highlight, contributing positively to the game's charm.
“Still, this is a fun dungeon crawler with outstanding graphics and music good enough for my kids to ask to buy its soundtrack.”
“The game's retro-style graphics and atmospheric soundtrack also help to create a nostalgic and immersive experience that pays homage to classic minesweeper while offering something new and exciting for players.”
“Ascill asks, 'What if Minesweeper had a retro graphics design, a throwback to DOS text-mode games, and was also more of an action game with time limits and moving enemies you have to deal with, too?' The answer is that the former would be cool, but that the latter mostly just makes it worse, especially given the strangely clunky and non-responsive controls. The money symbols being guaranteed safeties makes the Minesweeper part much easier such that you rarely have to puzzle out where mines would be, and the lack of flags plus real-time threat from enemies means you don't want to spend time thinking about it anyway.”
“Not recommended, though I dig the art style.”
“Even though the graphics are ASCII-based (thus limited), the presentation is gorgeous - coherent and with loads of visual effects.”
- music5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its quality and ability to enhance the overall experience, with many players noting its nostalgic and atmospheric qualities. It is described as relaxing and fitting well within the game world, contributing to an immersive experience that complements the vibrant graphics and engaging gameplay. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a standout feature, appealing to both adults and children alike.
“Still, this is a fun dungeon crawler with outstanding graphics and music good enough for my kids to ask to buy its soundtrack.”
“A great little retro mash-up of Pac-Man and Minesweeper space puzzle, love the soundtrack and colorful level design.”
“The game's retro-style graphics and atmospheric soundtrack also help to create a nostalgic and immersive experience that pays homage to classic Minesweeper while offering something new and exciting for players.”
- story2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's story is set in a sci-fi world filled with alien temples and ancient mysteries, providing an engaging backdrop that enhances the classic minesweeper gameplay. While the narrative adds depth through special abilities and power-ups, its appeal may vary among players.
“In addition to the classic minesweeper gameplay, Asciill adds new elements such as special abilities and power-ups, as well as an engaging storyline that immerses players in a sci-fi world of alien temples and ancient mysteries.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is enhanced by its retro-style graphics and immersive soundtrack, which evoke nostalgia while paying homage to classic minesweeper. Although some enemies can be annoying, they contribute to the overall ambiance, creating a unique and engaging experience for players.
“The game's retro-style graphics and atmospheric soundtrack create a nostalgic and immersive experience that pays homage to classic Minesweeper while offering something new and exciting for players.”
“The enemies are often annoying, but they do add to the atmosphere.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is noted for being funny and original, often delivering unexpected depth that adds to the overall experience.
“Funny, original, and a little bit deeper than you expect.”
“The humor is clever and keeps you engaged throughout the game.”
“I found myself laughing out loud at the witty dialogue and unexpected jokes.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players highlight the strong replayability of the game, particularly due to the inclusion of random daily challenges, making it a worthwhile purchase, especially at a low price point.
“The replayability is fantastic with the addition of random daily challenges; this game is a must-buy, especially for just $5!”
“Every playthrough feels fresh and exciting, thanks to the variety of challenges and options available.”
“I love how each session can be completely different, making me want to come back for more every day!”
