Dark Sheep
- April 23, 2021
- Daisy Games
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Get on itch.io StoreIn "Dark Sheep," join a sinister cult and kidnap sheep for a ritual sacrifice, maneuvering them through block-pushing puzzles with a Commodore 64 aesthetic. With 60 levels, this horror-themed game features permadeath, unique twists on classic Sokoban mechanics, and a chilling soundtrack. Can you appease your Dark Lord, or will you face dire consequences?
Reviews
- The game features a creepy atmosphere and retro graphics that effectively enhance the gameplay experience.
- Puzzles are well-designed and progressively challenging, providing a satisfying sense of accomplishment upon completion.
- The game includes a unique and darkly humorous narrative that keeps players engaged throughout.
- The music can be distracting and unpleasant, leading some players to mute it while playing.
- There are occasional control glitches where keystrokes may be ignored, causing frustration during gameplay.
- Some puzzles feel underwhelming or like filler, lacking the rewarding challenge expected from a great puzzle game.
- gameplay20 mentions
- 35 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
The gameplay is engaging and well-structured, featuring a mix of simple yet enjoyable mechanics that evolve throughout the game, keeping players intrigued without overwhelming them. With 60 levels across five chapters, each introducing new twists on classic sokoban-style puzzles, the game strikes a balance between challenge and accessibility. While the visuals may be rough, the polished mechanics and clear objectives enhance the overall experience, making it a satisfying puzzle game that pays homage to retro gaming.
“The mechanics and graphics are easily understood and never hide some obscure tricks, while they provide perfect clarity on what is needed to complete the level.”
“The puzzles are really well done and challenging enough to get caught by the gameplay.”
“Starting as a simple puzzle game, the gameplay keeps getting some twists every few levels, which will change the way you think and play.”
“There are 60 levels in 5 chapters (20 got added after release), unlocked one by one, and each chapter introduces some new mechanics, but it's mostly the standard sokoban fare.”
“I do like puzzles, but I don't like repetitive gameplay.”
- graphics12 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are characterized by a charming retro aesthetic reminiscent of the Commodore 64 era, featuring CRT effects and a simplistic design that enhances the creepy atmosphere. While the visuals may appear rough, they are well-executed and effectively convey the game's tone and mechanics, making it accessible and engaging for players. Overall, the graphics complement the puzzle gameplay and dark narrative, appealing to fans of retro styles and puzzle challenges.
“The mechanics and graphics are easily understood and never hide some obscure tricks, while they provide a perfect clarity on what is needed to complete the level.”
“The visuals are charming, and not bogged down or complicated with unnecessary effects; it's simple and cute, and faithful to the era it seeks to emulate.”
“Don't let the rough visuals fool you, this is a highly polished puzzler exploiting various sokoban-like mechanics, some of which I've never seen before (wait until you reach chapter 6).”
“Even though I usually prefer games with high graphical fidelity, there is something about this Commodore look with CRT effects and chiptune music which really undercuts the ominous aesthetics of the game.”
“This is a well-made, if short and simple, puzzle game, that pays homage to the Commodore 64 era of games in its visuals, sound, and mechanics.”
- story10 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 30 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
The game's story is praised for its unique blend of whimsical and dark elements, engaging players with its morbid undertones and intriguing narrative. Players appreciate the interwoven story sections that reward progress, while the overall simplicity allows for various interpretations, including themes of herd mentality. The retro aesthetic and well-crafted storytelling contribute to a compelling experience that enhances the gameplay.
“The story is delightfully dark, weird, and unique in this genre.”
“The story sections interwoven between every couple of stages are a nice reward for clearing the levels.”
“The whimsical story with its morbid undertones does its part to keep you engaged; the difficulty is slightly higher than Dark Crypt by the same studio.”
“The simple elements and story leave a lot for the imagination and different interpretations of what this game really is about.”
“Hopefully, Dark Sheep's puzzles change over the levels, and there is also a loose story that you follow through.”
- music9 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The music in the game receives mixed reviews, with some players finding it unbearable and suggesting alternatives, while others praise its catchy chiptune style and fitting atmosphere. The soundtrack is described as charming and era-focused, though it can occasionally be distracting or uncomfortable. Overall, players appreciate the option to customize the audio experience to their liking.
“Overall a great experience, some cool and tricky puzzles that were quite challenging from time to time, and a great soundtrack!”
“The music and soundscape is similarly charming and era-focused.”
“The music is awful, unbearable; listen to your own music or a podcast or something.”
“Often this makes for short, catchy loops of beeps and boops, but there are also a few misses, where the faithfully bit-crushed musical flourishes were actually kind of uncomfortable to listen to, and even distracting.”
“Even though I usually prefer games with high graphical fidelity, there is something about this Commodore look with CRT effects and chiptune music which really undercuts the ominous aesthetics of the game.”
- humor3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game effectively blends humor with its simple yet engaging narrative, delivering laughs alongside increasingly complex puzzles. Users appreciate the clear communication of tone through visuals, which enhances the overall comedic experience without sacrificing clarity.
“The basic disturbing and funny quality emerges from the contrasting features that the game provides.”
“Its simple narrative is delivered concisely with plenty of humor, while still maintaining the focus on its increasingly complex and challenging puzzles.”
“Nothing was ever confusing or hard to understand, and the visuals effectively communicate tone and humor when it's intended.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is characterized by a creepy ambiance enhanced by retro graphics, creating an engaging and immersive experience. Players appreciate the balance of challenging puzzles that complement the overall mood, making it a standout puzzle game.
“Creepy atmosphere, retro graphics, and puzzles that are the perfect amount of challenge.”
“Amazing puzzle game with a great atmosphere.”
“The atmosphere feels lifeless and uninspired, making it hard to stay engaged.”
“Despite the potential, the atmosphere lacks depth and fails to immerse the player.”
“The game tries to create a spooky vibe, but it ends up feeling more dull than eerie.”
