Discrepant is a clever psychological adventure game set in a dystopic sci-fi world that is slowly unwinding. It's dark, deadly and unsettling. It explores the meaning of existence and purpose, challenges reality and emotional connection through a complex plot, with a twist at every corner.
The game has a compelling narrative and atmosphere, with a slow build of tension that enhances the experience.
There are many interesting ideas and mechanics that show great potential for future development.
The background music and sound design effectively contribute to the creepy, immersive environment.
The game is riddled with bugs, including issues with stamina regeneration, crashing, and a clunky interface that detracts from gameplay.
Many players have reported frustrating experiences with the game's mechanics, such as getting stuck or encountering game-breaking glitches.
The graphics and overall polish feel unfinished, making the game feel more like an Alpha build than a completed product.
story
20 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
20%
65%
15%
The game's story and atmosphere are generally praised for their intrigue and depth, with players appreciating the unfolding narrative despite initial confusion. However, some critiques highlight inconsistencies in storytelling that could benefit from refinement. Overall, the combination of engaging gameplay and a compelling story makes it a worthwhile experience for those who enjoy narrative-driven games.
“The unfortunate part is the story and atmosphere was actually quite intriguing.”
“This game is brilliant at storytelling and creating atmosphere.”
“In the beginning I was lost and didn't really know what was happening, but I later came to realize the fascination of this storyline as it starts to unfold.”
“And some of the storytelling feels like it's off-the-mark.”
“I think if the developer can get the kinks worked out, and polish the story a bit, it could turn into a really great indie title.”
“In the beginning, I was lost and didn't really know what was happening, but I later came to realize the fascination of this storyline as it starts to unfold.”
atmosphere
12 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
67%
16%
17%
The atmosphere of the game receives mixed reviews, with some players finding it lacking while others appreciate its intriguing story and effective tension-building elements. Many highlight the potential of the atmosphere, noting that it enhances the overall experience, especially when gameplay mechanics function properly. Overall, the game's storytelling and atmospheric design are seen as strong points, despite some inconsistencies.
“The atmosphere is pretty good; a slow build of tension in the environment and an active timer really bring the experience together.”
“This game is brilliant at storytelling and creating atmosphere.”
“The atmosphere and the story seem like something I'd like.”
“Atmosphere seemed overall lacking.”
stability
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game suffers from significant stability issues, with numerous bugs affecting various systems such as stamina, UI, enemy behavior, and object interactions. Players report a clunky experience and unstable frame rates, particularly in town areas, leading to frustration and a lack of immersion. Overall, the game's stability is a major concern, detracting from the overall experience.
“Almost everything is buggy: the stamina system is buggy as well as the UI, the enemies, the objects you collect, the doors, the movements; the frame rate is really unstable, at least in town (the only part I could see before giving up).”
“It's very clunky and awkward and buggy.”
“Very buggy.”
graphics
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
67%
16%
17%
The graphics are generally considered decent but show signs of aging, particularly with issues like a 2D mirror reflection and a problematic flashlight. While the visuals may not impress, many players feel that the engaging story and gameplay compensate for these shortcomings. Overall, the graphics are serviceable but not a standout feature of the game.
“The graphics are actually not bad, but there's one part at the start of the game with a mirror where it's just a 2D copy of the bathroom you're in.”
“The graphics are somewhat dated, and the flashlight is particularly troubling.”
“I have to say that the game is really good for what it is; sure, the visuals may not be the best you've ever seen, but the story and gameplay make up for it. I recommend it if you enjoy a good story.”
“The graphics are somewhat dated (the flashlight is particularly troubling) and the controls can be very cumbersome.”
gameplay
4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The gameplay is praised for its challenging nature, requiring thoughtful engagement, which enhances the overall experience, especially for fans of horror and science fiction. While the visuals may not be top-tier, the compelling story and gameplay mechanics compensate for this, making it a recommended choice for those who appreciate a strong narrative.
“It really is a great experience for somebody like me who is fond of horror and science fiction, but also a very challenging one because the gameplay requires a certain amount of thinking.”
“I have to say that the game is really good for what it is. Sure, the visuals may not be the best you've ever seen, but the story and gameplay more than make up for it. I recommend it if you enjoy a good story.”
music
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The music in the game is consistently described as creepy, effectively enhancing the alien theme and contributing to the overall atmosphere.
“The background music is creepy and perfectly blends in with the alien theme.”