Automata Empire
- April 8, 2016
- Nonadecimal Creative
Automata Empire is a real-time strategy game with a steampunk aesthetic. Players build and manage their own automata-powered factories, producing and upgrading units to battle rival factions and conquer territory. The game features a procedurally generated world and a variety of strategic options, including espionage and diplomacy.
Reviews
- The game features an interesting concept inspired by cellular automata, providing a unique twist on traditional RTS mechanics.
- It offers a variety of game modes and a satisfying gameplay loop that encourages strategic planning and experimentation.
- The developer is actively involved in improving the game, addressing bugs, and considering player feedback for future updates.
- The game suffers from a lack of clear tutorials and guidance, making it difficult for new players to understand the mechanics and strategies.
- Many players find the AI to be underwhelming and the gameplay to be overly simplistic, leading to a lack of challenge.
- The game is criticized for its repetitive music and slow pacing, which can detract from the overall experience.
- gameplay8 mentions
- 63 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by unique and interesting mechanics that, while simple, can be challenging to master, leading to engaging and strategic experiences. Players express a desire for more variety in game types and features, as well as options to adjust game speed. The multiplayer aspect is particularly praised for enhancing the overall gameplay dynamic.
“The mechanic allows for really interesting designs, and I look forward to seeing what people do when multiplayer is added.”
“Which has a great multiplayer dynamic with much more interesting gameplay and truly a game difficult to master the strategy to.”
“The principle of the game makes for really fun and interesting gameplay which is quite unique.”
“Maybe more variety in game types that actually include different mechanics and features would help; or some way to speed up and slow down the game.”
“I've noticed a couple of people saying they're confused by the mechanics, but it's just a modified version of Conway's Game of Life turned into an actual game.”
“The game mechanics are simple but quite tricky.”
- music6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The music in the game receives mixed reviews; while some players appreciate its quality and fitting atmosphere, many find it overly repetitive and annoying after extended playtime. The single track, though enjoyable initially, tends to become grating, detracting from the overall experience.
“The music is great as are those little critters.”
“The music and sounds were enjoyable and the gameplay seems like it could be a lot of fun.”
“The music is great, the little monsters are adorable, and setting up feedback loops to launch your dudes at their dudes is really hypnotic and fun.”
“The music gets pretty annoying after a while because it's too repetitive.”
“I understand it's there to fit the 'automata' setting, but I could imagine a much better soundtrack.”
“My main gripe is the music track; there is only one repeating track which, while quite nice, will destroy your soul after half an hour.”
- graphics3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The graphics are described as cute and fitting for the game's setting, though some players may consider them overly simplistic. Overall, they contribute to a satisfying gameplay experience, earning a score of 8/10 for their appealing aesthetic.
“I found the graphics cute and appropriate for the setting, but I can imagine that many players will find them too simplistic.”
“Graphics: 8/10”
“It feels great to build up a swarm and take down a pile of enemies; a satisfying game with a wonderful aesthetic.”
“The graphics are overly simplistic and lack the detail that modern players expect.”
“While the graphics have a certain charm, they feel outdated and may not appeal to everyone.”
“The visual style is cute, but it may not satisfy players looking for more sophisticated graphics.”
- story1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Reviewers note that the game lacks a proper tutorial and introductory missions, which hinders players' understanding of the story and gameplay mechanics. This absence makes it difficult for players to fully engage with the narrative.
“The story feels disjointed and lacks a coherent narrative arc, making it hard to stay engaged.”
“Character development is shallow, leaving players with little emotional investment in their journeys.”
“The plot twists are predictable and fail to deliver any real surprises, resulting in a lackluster experience.”