Heavenly Bodies
- August 24, 2023
- 2pt Interactive
- 5h median play time
A hallmark of excellence. There may be flaws, but they are negligible and won't cause massive damage.
"Heavenly Bodies" is a challenging physics game set in space, where you play as a cosmonaut tasked with maintaining a scientific research station. Using a unique movement system with dual-analog controls, you'll need to navigate and complete various tasks in zero gravity, from assembling telescopes to tending to cosmic plants. While keyboard and mouse controls are supported, a controller is highly recommended for the best experience.
Reviews
- story320 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 72 % neutral mentions
- 1 % negative mentions
The game's story is minimal, primarily conveyed through the context of various missions rather than traditional narrative elements like cutscenes or dialogue. Players engage in a series of unique tasks across different space station locations, with each mission building on the last, creating a light but cohesive storyline that culminates in a satisfying conclusion. While the missions are entertaining and well-designed, many players express a desire for a more developed narrative and additional content to enhance the overall experience.
“I find this game as an amazing puzzle game with an interestingly linked story.”
“The story unfolds in an interesting manner without really any cutscenes or dialog, and leads to a satisfying conclusion.”
“The game's plot is amazing, and every mission ties into the next.”
“Also, it may get a bit monotonous after a while due to the lack of a story and the lack of gameplay evolution.”
“There is no main story at all.”
“I really wanted more in the main story outside of going back and doing the extra objectives.”
- humor279 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is consistently highlighted as a major strength, particularly in cooperative play, where players often find themselves in chaotic and hilarious situations due to the challenging controls and physics-based mechanics. Many reviewers noted that the game elicits non-stop laughter, especially when played with friends, making it a memorable and entertaining experience despite occasional frustrations. Overall, the humor is described as clever and well-integrated into the gameplay, providing a delightful balance of fun and challenge.
“The ending of the game in particular had me cracking up, and I appreciated how the humor was tied directly to the gameplay.”
“Me and my best friend played through it and had an absolute blast with it and we were laughing ourselves into tears!”
“The goofy mechanics and physics-based gameplay create a chaotic yet hilarious cooperative experience.”
- gameplay205 mentions
- 48 % positive mentions
- 48 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "Heavenly Bodies" is characterized by its unique physics-based mechanics that allow players to control limbs separately in a zero-gravity environment, creating a blend of challenge and humor. While the mechanics can be clunky and occasionally frustrating, they contribute to a fun and engaging cooperative experience, especially when played with friends. The game offers a variety of puzzles and missions that, despite some monotony over time, provide a rewarding and entertaining gameplay experience.
“Heavenly Bodies offers a refreshing and engaging take on puzzle games with its unique space physics and cooperative gameplay.”
“The gameplay is amazing, and the steam remote play worked really well for co-op.”
“The visuals are crisp, the mood and aesthetics are very immersive, and the gameplay is meticulous, tedious, obsessive, and incredibly gratifying, all in the best way possible.”
“There are a lot of clunky moments; some control mechanics look imprecise or awkward, and it can be annoying at times.”
“Also, it may get a bit monotonous after a while due to the lack of a story and the lack of gameplay evolution.”
“Although the goal and the tools of each mission change, the actual gameplay doesn't really evolve, so after a while, it may get a little bit monotonous.”
- graphics125 mentions
- 73 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
The game's graphics are widely praised for their beauty and immersive quality, featuring a charming mix of 2D and 2.5D styles with vibrant colors and atmospheric lighting. Players appreciate the cartoonish visuals and detailed artwork, which enhance the overall experience, making it both visually appealing and engaging. While some mention minor gameplay distractions related to the graphics, the overall consensus is that the visuals significantly contribute to the game's fun and challenging nature.
“Graphically, the game looks beautiful, which, alongside the great ambient sound, gives it a unique feel and makes the game surprisingly immersive.”
“The graphics are stunning and the gameplay is challenging but rewarding.”
“Gorgeous cartoonish visuals with nice colors, atmospheric lighting conditions, and many neat details.”
“I only bought this game to play it with my friend, and when he is playing he has constant 'blackouts' (randomly disconnecting, low quality audio and graphics, etc).”
“They do sometimes seem to put aesthetics over gameplay as it's not always immediately clear what surfaces you can grab, which block you, and which you pass through.”
“This is a pretty game with a neat 'older' graphics look.”
- music60 mentions
- 70 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its ability to enhance the overall atmosphere, with many reviewers highlighting its beautiful, ambient, and "spacey" qualities that complement the visuals and gameplay. The soundtrack evolves through levels, adding depth to the experience, while the sound effects and thoughtful design contribute to a captivating auditory experience. Overall, the music is considered a standout feature, elevating the game's charm and enjoyment.
“The music is perfect for this game and it evolves through the level, which is such a nice touch.”
“The soundtrack just adds to this essence.”
“Physics interactions are extremely good too, and the soundtrack is incredible.”
“Music should be better!”
“While 'Getting Over It' replaced story with some personal voiceover and music, there is no such compensating factor in Heavenly Bodies, so the focus is all on the gameplay.”
“The music is very 'spacey' and meditative.”
- atmosphere46 mentions
- 63 % positive mentions
- 30 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its gorgeous visuals, atmospheric lighting, and immersive soundtracks that enhance the overall experience. Players appreciate the unique blend of cartoonish aesthetics and realistic physics, creating a relaxing yet engaging environment. Despite some criticism of the controls, the atmosphere remains a standout feature, contributing to a memorable and enjoyable gameplay experience.
“The music, visuals, and general atmosphere are 10/10.”
“Sharp graphics, nice atmospheric soundtrack, and cute characters in space suits round out this excellent gem of a game.”
“Immersing yourself in the atmosphere, or lack of it.”
“In its core, it is a funky physics-based game, you may even say it is QWOP in space, but the atmosphere, the environments, the mood, everything will make you feel relaxed.”
“Visually and atmosphere-wise, it is clearly inspired by the classic, realistic sci-fi movies.”
- replayability31 mentions
- 32 % positive mentions
- 58 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's replayability is mixed; while some players find it enjoyable to replay with friends and appreciate the additional challenges and co-op options, others feel it lacks variety and depth for multiple playthroughs. The game typically offers around 4-5 hours of content, and while it can be fun to revisit, especially with different partners or increased difficulty, it may not appeal to everyone seeking extensive replay value. Additional content or modes, such as endless mode, could enhance its longevity.
“Loved the game! Played the entire game + DLC with my mum. It was the perfect amount of challenging and fun. It is also really replayable; I can't wait to introduce more people to this game; it will always have a special place in my heart.”
“Overall, I had an absolute blast! Even if the game is relatively short, there is replayability, and I would love to see either additional content added, whether DLC or sequels (although preferably free future updates).”
“It's great fun! If a bit short, but plentifully replayable, especially with friends!”
“The game has limited replay value unless you really like this genre of game, and there are only about 4 hours of content.”
“Not very good replayability, but the initial playthrough is well worth the money.”
“I would not call it a replayable experience, but I would recommend the game if it is on sale.”
- grinding18 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be a mix of fun and tedium, often describing it as meticulous and obsessive yet gratifying. While some appreciate the balance between challenge and monotony, others feel that the grinding can become excessively tedious, requiring significant time investment. Overall, the experience is immersive, but it may lead to frustration during certain gameplay moments.
“It's when you are trying to spacewalk untethered that things come to a teeth-grinding, hand-wringing, controller-throwing stop.”
“The game isn't challenging but it is tedious.”
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
- emotional12 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players report a deeply emotional experience with the game, often leading to tears and feelings of zen and relaxation. The game's wholesome nature evokes strong feelings, reminiscent of personal memories and comforting elements, such as Himalayan salt lamps, enhancing its emotional impact. Overall, it successfully creates a profound connection that resonates with players on a personal level.
“I cried a lot.”
“This game made me feel high.”
“When I got to level 3 I cried, when I got to level 6 I cried, when I got to level 10 I cried.”
- stability6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- -17 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
Overall, the game is praised for its stability, with users reporting a bug-free experience during gameplay. However, some players encountered minor issues when joining through Steam. Despite these small hiccups, the game remains highly enjoyable and unique, allowing for a variety of fun and creative playstyles.
“The game is completely bug-free.”
“The experience is smooth and bug-free.”
“I haven't encountered any bugs at all.”
“Joining through Steam seemed to be a bit buggy for my friend and me!”
“Joining through Steam seemed to be a bit buggy for my friend and me!”
- optimization4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Overall, the game is well-optimized, delivering satisfactory graphics and performance, particularly at challenging difficulty levels. While there were minor issues with Steam Remote Play, they were manageable and did not significantly detract from the experience.
“First off, the basics directly related to the game: the graphics were perfectly fine for me, seem well optimized. Steam Remote Play did have a couple of issues here and there, but nothing we couldn't work around.”
“Like most games of this genre, a quality performance at a challenging difficulty is very satisfying.”
- monetization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy appears to be effective, as users are drawn in by sales and promotional content, but there are concerns about gameplay compatibility that may affect overall satisfaction.
Critic Reviews
Heavenly Bodies Review (PS5) – Gravitational Hell
Related
70%Heavenly Bodies Review (PS5)
Heavenly Bodies is not your average cup of coffee, not even for indie games. It has a very specific audience it set its target on and delivers on its promise of challenging players through the control system. Visually and atmosphere wise it is clearly inspired by the classic, realistic sci-fi movies. The game itself is pretty short, but due to the control scheme, you will spend quite a lot of time even on the simplest tasks. Heavenly Bodies is not for everyone, but those who enjoy this kind of games will have a blast with it. Review code provided by the publisher.
70%Heavenly Bodies
A hallmark of excellence. There may be flaws, but they are negligible and won't cause massive damage.
90%