Backworlds
- February 20, 2020
- Logic Ember Limited
Get on SteamBackworlds is a multi-dimensional puzzle platform game in which you explore by painting. Solve environmental conundrums by using each world’s physical properties to your advantage, and use your own creativity to craft original solutions to the game’s puzzles.
Nintendo Switch
PC
Windows
Reviews
- Backworlds features unique and inventive puzzle mechanics that encourage creative problem-solving and exploration.
- The game has a charming art style and a relaxing atmosphere, making it a delightful experience for players.
- Levels are well-structured and interconnected, allowing for non-linear gameplay and a sense of freedom in puzzle-solving.
- Some puzzle designs are poorly executed, leading to confusion and frustration as players may stumble upon solutions without understanding the mechanics.
- The introduction of new mechanics can be abrupt, leaving players without adequate guidance to fully grasp their use.
- A significant number of players seem to quit before completing the game, indicating that the difficulty and lack of hints may be off-putting.
- gameplay9 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The gameplay is centered around a unique painting mechanic that players use to solve puzzles, providing a fresh and engaging experience throughout the game. While the core mechanics are intuitive and well-executed, some players noted that new mechanics are introduced without adequate explanation, which can lead to confusion. Overall, the game excels in its challenging levels that effectively integrate all learned mechanics, making for a rewarding puzzle platforming experience.
“A neat little puzzle platformer that does a good job deeply exploring a simple mechanic for some interesting challenges.”
“The main mechanic is a paintbrush, and you control it with your mouse; you will have to use it constantly because you will solve every puzzle using it.”
“The harder levels are really what made me like this game so much; if you get to the levels where you have to use all mechanics learned throughout the game, you are in luck because they are some of the best created levels in a puzzle platformer I've played in a long time.”
“There was only 1 puzzle that I think was out of place in this game, and it is really smartly designed but very hard because the player was not introduced to the possibility that the specific mechanic possesses.”
“One major problem with the puzzle design is that the game likes to throw new mechanics into the mix without ever properly showing them to the player.”
“The main mechanic is a paintbrush, and you control it with your mouse. You will have to use it constantly because you will solve every puzzle using it.”
- music2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in this puzzle platformer is highly praised, featuring a well-crafted soundtrack with a diverse range of tracks that enhance the overall gaming experience.
“This is a very good puzzle platformer with quality content, more than enough puzzles, and a good soundtrack.”
“The soundtrack is well done with lots of variety and many tracks.”
- graphics2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics are praised for their beautiful art style, reminiscent of an old cartoon, which enhances the overall visual experience of the game.
“Beautiful art style; it feels like you are playing an old cartoon. Really nice.”
“+ Great art style.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and annoying, contrasting sharply with the inventive and engaging puzzles that provide a refreshing challenge without becoming frustrating.
“As a result, the game starts to become an annoying, tedious slog.”
- character development1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers appreciate the cute character designs, which contribute positively to the overall character development, making the characters more relatable and engaging. However, there is limited feedback on the depth of their growth or narrative arcs.
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere is described as carefree, creating an ideal environment for engaging in puzzles. This lighthearted ambiance enhances the overall experience, making it enjoyable for players.
“The carefree atmosphere is perfect for puzzling.”
“The game's ambiance immerses you in a world of wonder and intrigue.”
“Every corner of the environment is filled with rich details that enhance the overall experience.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players describe the emotional aspect of the game as a wholesome experience, highlighting its ability to evoke positive feelings and foster a sense of warmth.
“I found it a wholesome experience.”
