Black Paradox
- May 2, 2019
- Stage Clear Studios
Black Paradox is a game seemingly designed with the philosophy that gamers enjoy ice skating uphill.
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Get on Xbox Games StoreBlack Paradox is a fast-paced, pixel art shoot 'em up game where you play as a time-traveling bounty hunter. Your mission is to defeat the Hellraisers, a ruthless criminal organization in the galaxy, using an arsenal of 15+ weapons, 30+ powerups, and 10+ drones. With 50+ enemies, 7 challenging bosses, and a growth system to upgrade your stats, the game offers a thrilling and action-packed experience, set to an awesome Synth-Wave soundtrack.
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Reviews
- A captivating blend of horror and visual artistry, with a unique and interesting story that keeps readers engaged.
- Beautiful production quality, including a stunning cover and good paper stock, making it a great addition for fans of Junji Ito.
- The story features unexpected twists and turns, maintaining the signature unsettling atmosphere that Junji Ito is known for.
- Some readers experienced issues with the physical quality of the book, including damage upon arrival and concerns about the durability of the cover.
- The story may feel shorter and less impactful compared to other works by Junji Ito, leading to mixed feelings about its depth and conclusion.
- There are complaints about the lack of a cohesive narrative or character development, making it less engaging for some readers.
- story52 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 54 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The story has been described as intriguing and unique, featuring creepy and gory elements that will appeal to fans of Junji Ito's previous works. It explores complex themes, including suicide, and is noted for its surreal narrative and unexpected twists, although some readers found it slower-paced or less engaging compared to his other stories. Overall, it combines Ito's signature eerie style with a compelling plot that leaves a lasting impression.
“I don't want to say too much and spoil it, suffice it to say the story is creepy, gory, and will please fans of his past works.”
“In usual Ito fashion, the story takes twists and turns that you won't expect, and ends in a way that will stick with you for a long time.”
“The title itself holds the essence of the story, where the plot unfolds into a surreal and bizarre narrative.”
“Story and characters were boring.”
“Story was pretty dumb compared to his other works.”
“Really the only thing stopping this from a higher score is the lack of depth, such as a story, better upgrade systems, or anything along these lines, but for what it is, it is surprisingly solid.”
- graphics7 mentions
- 57 % positive mentions
- 29 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The graphics are praised for their beautiful cover and artwork, typical of Junji Ito's style, though some feel the art is less horrific than expected. The visuals, complemented by an impressive 80s soundtrack, are noted to look great on both TV and handheld modes, enhancing the overall experience despite some minor critiques regarding the book's length and holographic wear.
“The artwork is beautiful (per usual) and the hardcover is simply gorgeous.”
“The overall composition of the story and the artwork makes up for it.”
“The visuals and 80s soundtrack are amazing and look great whether playing on a TV or on the Switch in mobile mode.”
“I also found the art style to be really tame in this; I personally would have liked more horrific art.”
- gameplay3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Gameplay in the reviewed game features a procedurally generated universe that keeps the experience fresh and engaging, complemented by an impressive soundtrack and a wide variety of weapons and upgrades. However, there are notable balance issues, as some procedurally generated elements can hinder progression, and the game lacks originality, feeling reminiscent of better titles in the genre. Additionally, limitations such as not being able to access the garage during gameplay or after boss battles detract from the overall experience.
“The amazing soundtrack reels you into the gameplay, and the procedurally generated universe always feels new and exciting. There’s a plethora of weapons and upgrades to try, both good and bad.”
“The gameplay offers a unique experience with procedurally generated mechanics that keep each playthrough fresh and engaging.”
“The variety of weapons and upgrades available enhances the gameplay, allowing for diverse strategies and playstyles.”
“There’s definitely a balance issue when it comes to the procedurally generated mechanics.”
“The procedurally generated weapons can and will hinder progression; Black Paradox brings nothing new to the genre and feels like a carbon copy of a better game.”
“Can’t access the garage after boss battles or during gameplay.”
- music2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its amazing 80s soundtrack, which enhances the gameplay experience and complements the visuals, whether on TV or in handheld mode. Players appreciate how the soundtrack immerses them in the procedurally generated universe, making each playthrough feel fresh and engaging.
“The visuals and 80s soundtrack are amazing and look great whether playing on a TV or on the Switch in mobile mode.”
“The amazing soundtrack reels you into the gameplay, and the procedurally generated universe always feels new and exciting.”
- humor1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game effectively blends horror with dark humor, providing a unique experience that balances tension with comedic elements. Players appreciate the clever use of humor to enhance the overall atmosphere.
“Good horror but also very funny dark humor.”
Critic Reviews
Black Paradox Review
Looking at screenshots, and playing the game briefly, it does not seem like it might be as good as it actually is. But there is something oddly addicting trying 'just one more time' to get further. The progression could use some quickening, and other things could use expanding; but the flair the game possesses is hard to deny. Really the only thing stopping this from a higher score is the lack of depth, such as a story, better upgrade systems, or anything along these lines, but for what it is, it is surprisingly solid.
70%Review – Black Paradox
Black Paradox is a game seemingly designed with the philosophy that gamers enjoy ice skating uphill.
50%Neon lights, bright starry nights, and tough boss fights --- Black Paradox review
The visuals and 80s soundtrack are amazing and look great whether playing on a TV or on the Switch in mobile mode. Too often did I feel I was on the back foot when it came to weapons, upgrades, and dealing with random enemies. There’s definitely a balance issue when it comes to the procedurally generated mechanics.
65%
