HyperPortals

About

HyperPortals is a single player action game. It was developed by Dnovel and was released on March 17, 2022. It received mostly positive reviews from players.

Read the text, answer questions, control the beam of light rushing through the void, collect parts of the story - "Hyper Portals" offers a journey into several dimensions at once.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Single-Player

Skip User Reviews

64%

Audience ScoreBased on 14 reviews

music3 positive mentions

atmosphere3 negative mentions

HyperPortals offers a unique and atmospheric experience that blends visual novel storytelling with abstract gameplay, inviting players to reflect on deeper themes of perception and reality.
The minimalist design and ethereal soundscape create a meditative environment that enhances the player's journey through surreal dimensions.
The game challenges conventional storytelling, allowing for personal interpretation and introspection, which can resonate deeply with players who appreciate experimental art games.

Many players find the lack of traditional gameplay mechanics and cohesive narrative frustrating, leading to a perception that the game is more of an art piece than a true gaming experience.
The minimalist approach may feel underwhelming to those expecting dynamic progression or tangible goals, resulting in a slow and monotonous pace.
There are concerns about the authenticity of positive reviews, with accusations of review manipulation and the game being perceived as low-effort or poorly executed.

story
9 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
33%
34%
33%
The story of Hyperportals is an experimental blend of visual novel elements and abstract gameplay, featuring fragmented imagery and minimal text that challenges traditional narrative structures. While it offers a unique atmosphere and explores themes of player control and linear storytelling, the lack of a cohesive plot and emotionally grounded narrative may frustrate some players. Overall, it presents an unusual experience that, despite its surface-level observations, is intriguing for those open to unconventional storytelling.
- “Hyperportals, developed and published by dnovel, is a minimalist and experimental indie title that blends visual novel storytelling with abstract, dimension-hopping gameplay.”
- “Narratively, Hyperportals unfolds like an experimental short story told through fragmented imagery and sparse text.”
- “The game’s strength lies in its atmosphere and willingness to explore unconventional storytelling, and while it may not linger long in terms of length, it leaves a subtle emotional impression.”
- “This approach can be fascinating for those who appreciate games that challenge conventional storytelling, but it can also feel frustrating for anyone looking for a cohesive or emotionally grounded plot.”
- “This is not a game; it is simply a small collection of surface-level observations retreading the same tired themes of player control and the nature of linear storytelling in video games.”
- “At first glance, Hyperportals is a deceptively simple game about making small choices that don't affect the plot or story much.”
gameplay
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
50%
50%
Hyperportals offers a minimalist and experimental gameplay experience that combines visual novel elements with abstract, dimension-hopping mechanics. Players navigate surreal environments by guiding a beam of light through pathways and portals, making light narrative choices that influence the story's flow. While its simplicity may not appeal to those seeking complex gameplay or high production values, it provides a meditative journey for fans of reflective digital art.
- “Hyperportals, developed and published by dnovel, is a minimalist and experimental indie title that blends visual novel storytelling with abstract, dimension-hopping gameplay.”
- “Rather than following the conventions of a traditional platformer or puzzle game, it takes players through an atmospheric journey where the main mechanic revolves around guiding a beam of light through surreal environments.”
- “The gameplay consists of choosing pathways, entering portals, and making light narrative decisions that affect the flow of the story.”
- “In terms of pacing and mechanics, Hyperportals is extremely minimalistic.”
- “Players looking for a deep narrative, complex gameplay, or high production values will likely find it too sparse.”
- “The simplicity of the mechanics highlights the meditative quality of the game, which seems more interested in letting the player reflect on meaning than in presenting obstacles to overcome.”
atmosphere
5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
20%
20%
60%
The game's atmosphere is characterized by its surreal environments and ethereal qualities, enhanced by intuitive controls that prioritize exploration over skill-based challenges. With striking color gradients, light effects, and a subdued soundtrack, it creates a captivating experience that emphasizes unconventional storytelling and leaves a lasting emotional impact, despite its brief duration.
- “Rather than following the conventions of a traditional platformer or puzzle game, it takes players through an atmospheric journey where the main mechanic revolves around guiding a beam of light through surreal environments.”
- “The game’s strength lies in its atmosphere and willingness to explore unconventional storytelling, and while it may not linger long in terms of length, it leaves a subtle emotional impression.”
- “Visually and sonically, the game creates an ethereal atmosphere through its use of color gradients, light effects, and a subdued soundtrack.”
- “The controls are intuitive and accessible, allowing the player to focus on the atmosphere rather than skill-based challenges.”
music
4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
75%
25%
The game's music is praised for its gentle and otherworldly quality, effectively enhancing the ethereal atmosphere created by its visuals. Players appreciate the excellent background sounds, which contribute to the immersive experience of exploring intangible realms.
- “Visually and sonically, the game creates an ethereal atmosphere through its use of color gradients, light effects, and a subdued soundtrack.”
- “The music is gentle and otherworldly, enhancing the sensation of traveling through intangible realms.”
- “Cool 2D game, the sounds and music in the background are excellent.”
graphics
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game's graphics feature a stripped-down aesthetic that prioritizes mood and atmosphere over realism, evoking feelings of isolation and mystery. This abstract visual style, reminiscent of minimalist games, is complemented by poetic writing that enhances the overall experience.
- “The abstract aesthetic may remind players of older minimalist experiments like Rez or more narrative-driven works such as The Plan or Journey, though on a much smaller and more personal scale.”
- “This stripped aesthetic emphasizes mood over realism, creating a feeling of isolation and mystery.”
- “The writing, though minimal, is poetic in tone and complements the abstract nature of the visuals.”
monetization
3 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The monetization aspect of the game has been criticized due to the presence of suspicious reviews, often written in broken English or Russian, which appear shortly after launch and seem to promote direct purchases. These reviews are linked to accounts that consistently endorse low-quality asset flips and scams, raising concerns about the legitimacy of the game's monetization practices.
- “The monetization strategy feels exploitative, with constant prompts to spend more money on in-game purchases.”
- “It seems like the game was designed around making money rather than providing a good experience for players.”
- “The prices for in-game items are outrageous, making it hard to enjoy the game without spending a fortune.”
emotional
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game offers a unique approach to storytelling that may resonate with players who enjoy unconventional narratives, though it can frustrate those seeking a cohesive emotional experience. Its atmospheric qualities and exploration of non-traditional themes create a subtle emotional impact, despite its brevity.
- “The game’s strength lies in its atmosphere and willingness to explore unconventional storytelling, and while it may not linger long in terms of length, it leaves a subtle emotional impression.”