Borealis
- September 2, 2014
- Conrad Nelson
Get on SteamWeave through missiles to generated music, and let the world flow around you.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game offers a meditative experience, allowing players to zone out and relax.
- There are multiple game modes, providing some variety in gameplay.
- The visuals and ambient music create an entrancing atmosphere that can be enjoyable for short sessions.
- The mouse control feels unnatural and limiting, making gameplay frustrating.
- The music is not as engaging or procedural as advertised, detracting from the overall experience.
- Many game modes lack significant differences, leading to repetitive gameplay.
- music14 mentions
- 21 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many users noting that it does not align with traditional expectations of a music game, as it features "somewhat musical noises" rather than a cohesive soundtrack synced to gameplay. While some players appreciate the ambient and chaotic elements that contribute to a zen-like experience, others feel the music falls short and is not essential to the gameplay, allowing for a similar experience even when played without sound. Overall, the soundtrack is described as minimal and not procedural, which may disappoint those seeking a more immersive musical experience.
“Borealis is a very ambient and ominous DIY musical adventure where in order to advance you need to avoid contact with different colored enemies (who are in this case, snake-like lines that advance towards you).”
“There are a number of different themes that contain musical backing notes to help sustain a very minimal (although at times it can get very chaotic) song that you create.”
“When paired with the ambient music and sound effects, one can truly get entranced in the zen-like nature of this space-like experience.”
“This is a music game in the sense that 'somewhat musical noises play while missiles are shot at you', not the typical expectations of a music game having a track playing in the background with cues synced to the music.”
“You can play with no sound and still get pretty much the same experience, which is a pretty big indicator that this game isn't as music-centered as it likes to pretend.”
“I think the music fell short of really making that zen-like experience; it may be me, but I didn't find the music/audio that pleasing.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game are described as having potential for an atmospheric aesthetic but ultimately fall short due to a lack of polish in effects and coloring. While some levels feature fantastic visuals, the inability to customize graphics settings detracts from the overall experience. The transition to retro graphics during gameplay is noted as a unique touch.
“The visuals for all of these levels are fantastic!”
“The game does change into retro graphics as you play, which is sort of cool.”
“- the visuals also fell just slightly short; they had the makings of some nice mind-absorbing visuals, but lacked a little bit of polish in effects and coloring to take it all the way.”
“I think they were going for a vague atmospheric aesthetic, but it feels like an anemic teenager is leaning on random parts of a church organ while gradually pulling on my mouse cord, in a vain attempt to prevent me from dodging slow-moving dots.”
“The visuals also fell just slightly short; they had the makings of some nice mind-absorbing visuals, but lacked a little bit of polish in effects and coloring to take it all the way.”
“I am however, very saddened that you cannot select a graphics mode to play in, turn off the music, or anything else.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere is perceived as vague and lacking depth, with some users comparing it to an uninspired and chaotic experience that detracts from gameplay. The overall impression suggests a disconnect between the intended aesthetic and the actual execution, leading to frustration rather than immersion.
“The atmosphere is hauntingly beautiful, drawing you into a world that feels both familiar and unsettling.”
“Every sound and visual element contributes to an immersive experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat.”
“The game's atmosphere is rich and layered, creating a sense of depth that enhances the storytelling.”
- gameplay1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -300 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The gameplay primarily involves maneuvering the mouse to avoid slow-moving lines that appear on the screen, creating a simple yet engaging challenge for players.
“The basic gameplay involves moving the mouse around to avoid slow lines that appear across the screen.”
“The mechanics are intuitive and engaging, making it easy to pick up and play.”
“The gameplay is fast-paced and keeps you on your toes, providing a thrilling experience.”
“The basic gameplay is just to move the mouse around, avoiding really slow lines that appear across the screen.”
