B.I.O.T.A.
- October 28, 2021
- Retrovibe Games
In B.I.O.T.A., take control of a commando unit sent to investigate a mining colony that ceased all communication. Survive in 10 completely different environments packed with mutant monsters and deadly traps with the help of a multitude of guns and various crafts, including a mech, a sub and a starship.STORY It's year 21XX. You command the Gemini 2 team - a commando unit made up of tough war veter…
Reviews
- The game features charming graphics and a nostalgic retro aesthetic that appeals to fans of classic platformers.
- Gameplay is generally smooth and responsive, with enjoyable combat mechanics and a variety of characters to choose from, each with unique abilities.
- The ability to save anywhere adds convenience, allowing players to manage their progress effectively and explore at their own pace.
- The game suffers from design flaws, such as a lack of backtracking options after reaching certain endings, making it difficult to collect missed items.
- Wall jumping and other movement mechanics can feel clunky and unintuitive, leading to frustrating gameplay experiences.
- Some vehicle segments and alternate gameplay modes are poorly designed and can drag on, detracting from the overall enjoyment of the game.
- gameplay46 mentions
- 26 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The gameplay is generally enjoyable, featuring a solid core loop with intuitive mechanics that encourage exploration and strategic combat, though some alternate gameplay segments are considered hit-or-miss and can detract from the overall experience. While the platforming is mostly smooth and responsive, there are notable inconsistencies in controls that can frustrate players. Overall, the game successfully combines retro aesthetics with engaging mechanics, making it a recommendable experience despite some areas needing improvement.
“The mechanics are intuitive yet deep, allowing for satisfying exploration, strategic decision-making, and thrilling combat encounters.”
“The gameplay is enjoyable and not too hardcore.”
“Gameplay is quick, fluid, and varied.”
“The game mechanics that try to do something different, like the mech, submarine, and dogfight, were not great.”
“While the overall graphical, sound, and gameplay design meet and in many cases exceed expectations, there are too many problems with the controls and mechanics of the game which make it a chore to play.”
“There are frustrating inconsistencies in the game's mechanics: sometimes you don't shoot, sometimes you can't wall jump, and after a wall jump, releasing left/right doesn't slow you down.”
- graphics39 mentions
- 51 % positive mentions
- 41 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are widely praised for their charming retro aesthetic, reminiscent of the Game Boy Color era, featuring a vibrant palette of 4-color visuals that can be customized with various unlockable palettes. Reviewers highlight the stunning visuals and world-building, noting that the graphics not only enhance the gameplay experience but also contribute to the storytelling. Overall, the art style is considered a standout feature, appealing particularly to fans of retro games, despite some minor visibility issues with certain elements.
“Is its breathtaking visuals and world-building.”
“The aesthetic of the game is brilliant and since I love retro games, I enjoy a lot the game and the fact that the palettes will constantly rotate to always feel fresh.”
“Graphics are simply a work of art.”
“Graphics are 4 colors and the game allows you to choose your favorite palette, which is nice.”
“While the overall graphical, sound, and gameplay design meet and in many cases exceed expectations, there are too many problems with the controls and mechanics of the game which make it a chore to play.”
“Sound, graphics and story are serviceable.”
- music29 mentions
- 52 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received widespread acclaim, with many reviewers praising its retro-inspired chiptune soundtrack that complements the game's aesthetic and enhances the overall experience. While the tracks are described as catchy and fitting for various levels and boss encounters, some players noted that the repetition of certain tracks could be a drawback. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a standout feature, contributing significantly to the game's charm and enjoyment.
“The music is simply divine.”
“The soundtrack really fits the vibe of the game and changes accordingly to the level you're playing.”
“The gorgeous pixel-art really pops on screen and the chiptune synth soundtrack perfectly accompanies the old-school Game Boy feel.”
“The main positive of the game is really just the music.”
“Music is maddening.”
“The retro inspired soundtrack is also present and every boss has his own music.”
- story20 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
The game's story is described as simple yet engaging, with a solid sci-fi narrative that incorporates player choices and multiple endings, enhancing replayability. While some reviews note that the story is minimal or serviceable, others highlight its charm and nostalgic elements reminiscent of 80s and 90s media, contributing to an enjoyable overall experience. The plot effectively supports the gameplay mechanics, making it a cohesive part of the adventure.
“Isn't just about aesthetics; it's also about storytelling.”
“Throughout my journey, I was faced with numerous decisions that had a tangible impact on the story and world around me.”
“I liked the gameplay and there are different endings, so there's a lot of replayability with this game, and it also has a fantastic story; the plot kept me going the whole time.”
“The story barely exists.”
“Sound, graphics, and story are serviceable.”
“The story is brief, simple, but quite charming, absolutely capturing that retro feel.”
- grinding5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- -40 % neutral mentions
- 80 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be a mixed experience; while the need to manage currency for key purchases can be tedious, the respawning enemies and chests provide opportunities for farming. However, the latter parts of the game are criticized for being overly grindy and filled with frustrating gimmicks, which detracts from the overall enjoyment and motivation to engage in post-game content.
“The game can feel a bit grindy at times, but the rewards make it worth it.”
“Grinding is a necessary part of the experience, and it adds depth to character progression.”
“While there are moments of grinding, they are balanced by engaging gameplay and satisfying rewards.”
“Because you don't know the order to buy the keys when you find the vendors, it could be tedious to have to ensure you always have enough currency to buy whatever key you run into.”
“Plus the back half of the game is overloaded with tedious gimmick segments which tried my patience and put me in a bad mood, leaving me with no desire to try the post-game.”
“This includes items needed to progress, which means grinding for currency to obtain them.”
- replayability4 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
Players find the game highly replayable due to its diverse movesets, meaningful choices that enhance investment in outcomes, and a variety of customization options. The engaging gameplay, combined with a captivating soundtrack and immersive retro atmosphere, encourages repeated playthroughs. Overall, it offers a solid experience that keeps players returning for more.
“Don't let this slip, it is a solid and fun game with tight controls, a blast of a soundtrack, good replayability and a ton of palettes to pick from and make it the best option for you.”
“I suppose this could add to replay value if playing through the same game with a different moveset.”
“These choices made me feel truly invested in the outcome of the game, adding layers of depth and replayability that kept me coming back for more.”
“Hits all the right notes for anyone looking for an immersive retro world with lots of character and replayability.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is highly praised for its intriguing sci-fi elements, evoking a blend of classic alien films and the adventurous spirit of the A-Team. This unique combination creates an engaging and immersive experience for players.
“The game is very interesting and atmospheric.”
“Let me start by saying that the sci-fi atmosphere reminds me of alien movies mixed with A-Team.”
“The sci-fi atmosphere feels like a mix of alien movies and A-Team, which is an odd combination that doesn't quite work.”
“The game lacks a cohesive atmosphere, making it difficult to immerse myself in the world.”
“Despite the potential for a rich atmosphere, the execution falls flat, leaving the environment feeling lifeless and uninspired.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players feel a strong emotional investment in the game's outcomes due to impactful choices, which enhance the narrative depth and encourage replayability.
“These choices made me feel truly invested in the outcome of the game, adding layers of depth and replayability that kept me coming back for more.”
“The characters' struggles resonated with me on a personal level, making their journeys feel incredibly real and impactful.”
“I found myself emotionally attached to the story, experiencing a rollercoaster of feelings that left a lasting impression long after I finished playing.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's humor is characterized by the juxtaposition of tough, weapon-wielding heroes and their unexpectedly humorous dialogues, creating a comedic contrast that enhances the overall experience.
“The heroes of the game are real tough guys with huge weapons and hilarious dialogues.”
“The humor in this game is top-notch, with clever puns and witty one-liners that keep you laughing.”
“I love how the game balances intense action with lighthearted moments that make you chuckle.”