Future Proof
- May 17, 2018
- Silhouette Valley Games
- 5h median play time
"Future Proof" is a 2D puzzle adventure game where you play as Sean, a teenage boy with the ability to go back in time when he dies. Trapped in a time loop due to an approaching meteorite, Sean must save the town of Greensvale or escape it with the help of other stragglers. The game features challenging logic-based puzzles, a non-linear exploration of the town, and a mysterious story with secrets to uncover.
Reviews
- Engaging and clever puzzles that require logic, creativity, and exploration, providing a satisfying challenge.
- Multiple endings (15 in total) enhance replayability, encouraging players to explore different paths and outcomes.
- Charming pixel art style and humorous writing create an enjoyable atmosphere, reminiscent of classic adventure games.
- Graphics are considered outdated and may not appeal to all players, resembling low-budget RPG Maker titles.
- Some puzzles can be overly obscure, leading to frustration and the need for external guides to complete the game.
- The time limit mechanic can create high stress, which may detract from the enjoyment for some players.
- story20 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
The story of "Future Proof" revolves around a child named Sean who must navigate a 12-minute time loop to save his town from an impending meteor strike, blending cute graphics with a surprisingly mature narrative. Players appreciate the intriguing plot, humorous dialogue, and the mix of lighthearted and dark themes, although some puzzles may require external help to solve. Overall, the game is praised for its unique storytelling and engaging gameplay, making it a hidden gem worth exploring.
“It's a story about a kid named Sean, whose town is about to be destroyed by a meteorite in 12 minutes.”
“The short of it: a bit of a love letter to classics like Earthbound, Future Proof is a unique adventure/mystery story about a doomed town, soon to be struck by a meteor.”
“I thought it was intriguing how this game looks like a happy little pixel adventure from the outside before you get to know it, but the truth is it’s quite mature in its story and conflicts.”
“Some endings require external knowledge or some luck (or Steam guide), but overall it's a quick fun game with some challenges and a bizarre story.”
“Only one major plot point is covered by in-game explanations.”
“I thought it was intriguing how this game looks like a happy little pixel adventure from the outside, but the truth is it’s quite mature in its story and conflicts.”
- humor14 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its clever and whimsical humor, featuring a mix of funny pop culture references and a protagonist whose internal monologue provides both intentional and unintentional comedy, even in dire situations. With multiple endings that range from humorous to serious, players can enjoy a variety of comedic experiences, making the game a hidden gem that balances intrigue with lightheartedness. Overall, the humor is a standout aspect that enhances the gameplay and keeps players engaged.
“The game has great humor too and it pays attention to details, like when everything gets darker as your time runs out.”
“Has some funny pop culture references and just a goofy fun time.”
“The internal monologue of Sean is one of the strongest points of the game as he manages to be both intentionally and unintentionally funny even while being under the threat of death by meteorite.”
- graphics14 mentions
- 21 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are a mixed bag, with some players appreciating the cute and simple pixel art style reminiscent of the 16-bit era, while others criticize it as outdated and poorly executed. Many find the visuals charming and fitting for the gameplay, though some feel they lack the quality expected from modern indie titles. Overall, the graphics evoke nostalgia for classic games but may not appeal to everyone due to their retro aesthetic.
“A nice game with interesting puzzles, lots of discoveries, crazy-cool story, stylish humor, cute graphics, great sounds, and much fun!”
“I really liked the graphics of the game as they are simple enough but have their own aesthetics and also a lot of stuff can be seen if you just look correctly.”
“The graphics are reminiscent of the 16-bit era, and would fit in well with other games from the mid-nineties.”
“A little tough, if you don't have the patience, especially with the meh graphics. I would say hold out until you reach a wall, then just go through with a guide to enjoy the endings as a decently written show.”
“The game will reset after those 12 minutes, a bit like Groundhog Day, only badly made and with godawful retro pixel graphics, because hiring artists is apparently something crappy indie devs refuse to do.”
“Ugly retro 2D pixel graphics.”
- gameplay13 mentions
- 15 % positive mentions
- 62 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by a unique blend of logic-based puzzles, creativity, and elements of chance, reminiscent of the game "Kindergarten" with its time-loop mechanic. Players engage in a series of adventure-style inventory puzzles, utilizing journal hints effectively to progress through multiple endings. Overall, the game offers a well-thought-out experience with a satisfying level of challenge and good value for its price.
“The concept is unusual and creates quite unique gameplay.”
“After more than 3 hours of gameplay and having discovered 3 of 15 possible endings, I thought I'd just have to write something about this little indie gem that I recently discovered in a sale.”
“Its 12-minute time-loop is used more as a way to collect information in multiple loops than as a game mechanic.”
“The puzzles are generally good and the hints of journaled thoughts are an actually useful mechanic compared to the journals I've experienced in other games.”
- replayability6 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The game boasts strong replayability, featuring 14 possible endings that encourage players to revisit it multiple times. Users find it charming and well worth the price, highlighting the variety of outcomes as a key factor in its replay value.
“This game has pretty good replayability with 14 possible endings to unlock.”
“Tons of possible endings, lots of replay value.”
“To conclude, this game is well worth the asking price; it's pretty charming and has lots of replayability.”
“Scully: (amused) So, what's the hook for replay value?”
“I was especially surprised by the replay value of this game.”
- music3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The music in the game is noted for its unique humor, but some players feel it lacks impact, with a desire for the ending music to start earlier to enhance the experience. Overall, the soundtrack is considered somewhat underwhelming.
“Each track brings its own unique humor and musical flair.”
“The soundtrack perfectly complements the game's atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience.”
“I wish the ending music kicked in earlier to give a more impactful conclusion.”
“Each track has its own humor and style, but overall, the music feels a bit lackluster.”
“I wish the ending music kicked in earlier to enhance the experience.”
“The music is a bit underwhelming, leaving much to be desired.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The game evokes a unique "Donnie Darko" atmosphere, surprising players with its depth and emotional resonance, especially considering its modest origins.
“There's a unique 'Donnie Darko' atmosphere that resonates from this game, something I would not have expected from this little piece of code.”
“The atmosphere is incredibly immersive, drawing you into a world that feels both familiar and haunting.”
“Every detail contributes to a rich atmosphere that keeps you on the edge of your seat, making every moment feel significant.”
“The game tries to create a unique atmosphere, but it often feels disjointed and lacks cohesion.”
“While there are moments of potential, the overall atmosphere feels flat and uninspired.”
“The intended eerie vibe falls short, leaving the environment feeling more bland than haunting.”