I Can't Believe It's Not Gambling
- December 11, 2017
- Mutant Entertainment Studios
- 4h median play time
Get on Steam"I Can't Believe It's Not Gambling" is a game that satirically focuses on the thrill of opening loot boxes. Players can experience the excitement of never getting the desired items while receiving duplicate unwanted loot. The game features a comprehensive loot system, a massive collection system, and customization options with boxes, skins, and hats, all available in loot boxes.
Reviews
- The game cleverly parodies the loot box mechanics prevalent in modern gaming, providing a humorous take on the issue.
- It's an addictive experience that captures the thrill of opening loot boxes without the financial risk, making it a fun alternative for those who enjoy that aspect of gaming.
- The game is inexpensive and offers a surprisingly engaging gameplay loop, with a simple yet entertaining mini-game to earn in-game currency.
- The final achievement requires opening 100,000 loot boxes, which can be extremely time-consuming and frustrating for completionists.
- The gameplay can become monotonous quickly, as it primarily revolves around opening loot boxes and lacks deeper mechanics.
- There are technical issues, such as bugs and crashes, which can detract from the overall experience.
- gameplay81 mentions
- 14 % positive mentions
- 72 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
The gameplay is primarily centered around opening loot boxes, with minimal interactive mechanics, leading to a repetitive and simplistic experience. While some players find the satire and humor engaging, many criticize the lack of substantial gameplay, describing it as a tedious clicking exercise rather than a fulfilling gaming experience. Overall, it serves as a parody of loot box mechanics, appealing to those who enjoy the thrill of collecting without the complexities of traditional gameplay.
“The gameplay is surprisingly strategic, making you think while still keeping things light-hearted.”
“Actually addictive gameplay; didn't know that it would actually feel as satisfying as opening cases in real games and dropping super rare items.”
“Ultimately you'll come for the amusing satire and stay for the relatively satisfying (it is still lootboxes...) gameplay as you try to make your cardboard boxes, dragonballs, and treasure chests look 'simply faaabulous'.”
“The gameplay is very basic: you click to open loot boxes, click again to pick which loot to keep, click again to trade in the rest that you don't want in order to make money which then lets you open more loot boxes, and repeat ad infinitum.”
“The gameplay loop is sparse: you click a button and things happen.”
“All the good stuff of a skinner box without any of that annoying gameplay and skill getting in the way.”
- humor63 mentions
- 97 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 3 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is largely appreciated for its clever satire of loot boxes and the gaming industry's exploitative practices, with many players finding it funny and engaging at first. However, some reviews note that the novelty wears off quickly, leading to a repetitive experience that diminishes the initial comedic impact. Overall, while the game is recognized for its humorous concept and industry commentary, opinions vary on its long-term entertainment value.
“I can't believe it's not gambling goty edition - this game combines humor and clever mechanics in a way that keeps you hooked from start to finish.”
“The parody of the mechanic does the mechanic best and that's hilarious.”
“Skewers AAA gaming culture with wonderfully funny satire.”
“Yeah this is 'a meme game', but it's not funny, not clever, not entertaining... and no, I'm not upvoting literal trash because of nihilistic post-irony culture!”
“No, not funny.”
- monetization33 mentions
- 9 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 24 % negative mentions
The game's monetization strategy has drawn mixed reactions, with many players criticizing the presence of excessive microtransactions and lootboxes, likening it to predatory practices seen in other titles. However, some appreciate the game's satirical take on these monetization tactics, noting that it humorously critiques the industry's reliance on such models while ironically lacking real microtransactions itself. Overall, the game serves as both a jab at exploitative monetization and a commentary on the absurdity of modern gaming economics.
“It's a cute little jab at predatory monetization, and for a dollar it's pretty alright.”
“This game was designed as a middle finger to EA and all other companies who make microtransactions the main part of any game's experience, and I love it.”
“I enjoy the satirical approach to microtransactions and lowkey gambling in today's modern cosmetics; the message it's trying to convey is quite positive and honestly, even if you aren't gonna play the game, I'd buy this just to give the creator props.”
“This game is unironically the worst game I have ever played. It's got microtransactions and loot boxes up the wazoo for an outrageous price to get the game. If you love being scammed, this is the game for you.”
“In an insult to gamers everywhere, the game features advertising on the menu screen! That might be understandable (but not acceptable) if this was free... but people paid (wasted) money on this and now the developer is trying to extort even more revenue by advertising to the audience.”
“It's a greedy, offensive practice that simply must not be tolerated, and even more insulting because this advertising is stapled onto an insincere joke game already.”
- graphics21 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with some praising the charming art style and stunning visuals, while others find them basic and mediocre. Many users appreciate the variety of skins and animations, though some report performance issues and bugs. Overall, the graphics are seen as a secondary aspect to the gameplay, with a few standout elements that enhance the experience.
“The art style is charming, and the quirky characters really bring the game to life.”
“The graphics are stunning.”
“Graphics and sound quality are the best of the generation, without a doubt.”
“The graphics are pretty basic, but the real novelty is the variety and ridiculousness of skins and hats for each type of loot box.”
“The graphics are plain, but I think it works with the design the developers went with.”
“The graphics are mediocre, but what is important is the gameplay.”
- music17 mentions
- 41 % positive mentions
- 41 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally well-received, featuring a catchy chiptune main menu track and atmospheric tunes that enhance the unboxing experience. While many players find the soundtrack relaxing and enjoyable, some note that it can become repetitive over time, leading to a desire for more variety. Overall, the music contributes positively to the game's charm, with standout moments that evoke nostalgia and enhance gameplay.
“The main menu song is a nice jiving chiptune song which gets you into the unboxing mood, but then the actual game slips in a nice atmospheric tune to let you mellow out and get lost in the unboxing.”
“Also, the music is really relaxing; I think I fell into a trance at one point.”
“Great music, great graphics, great experience.”
“My only gripe is the music is very repetitive.”
“The only real downside is that (as far as I'm aware) there's only one song looping.”
“If you're playing this legitimately, then you will eventually want to bring your own music after a few hours.”
- story16 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 31 % neutral mentions
- 19 % negative mentions
The game's story is widely praised for its emotional depth and engaging characters, often evoking strong feelings in players. However, some reviewers note that the narrative is somewhat obscured by the game's focus on loot boxes, requiring players to dig deeper to fully appreciate it. Overall, while the story is considered fantastic and touching, its presentation could benefit from more direct storytelling elements.
“It's a truly touching story which made me shed a singular tear.”
“Game developers always relate most of their mentors in how to make a good game to this one, its flawless gameplay, its touching story and the replayability!”
“The amount of backstory is staggering and beautiful.”
“Unfortunately, I don't have enough star cards to increase the amount of pride and accomplishment I feel when I open each new box, so I feel like the story was slightly lessened for me, and it was a bit immersion-breaking.”
“Which really reminds me of DLC Quest years back on the DLC craze, which has been getting worse than before.”
“Same as this one tackling loot boxes, DLC Quest tackles DLC, and does it hilariously.”
- grinding10 mentions
- 10 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 90 % negative mentions
Players express mixed feelings about grinding in games, often finding it tedious and frustrating, especially when it comes to obtaining rare loot or completing achievements. While some enjoy the excitement of opening loot crates, many feel that the time spent grinding detracts from the overall experience, leading to a sense of monotony rather than accomplishment. Overall, the grind can be seen as a double-edged sword, appealing to those who enjoy it while alienating others who find it overly repetitive.
“I love the feeling of opening loot crates, and I hate doing all that tedious gameplay in between to hype up something that isn't really worth it.”
“Eventually this can become a bit tedious as you almost waste more time trying to grab coins within the mini-game more than actually completing the objective of the game.”
“The achievements are a bit ridiculously grindy to complete, and like real-life loot boxes, it gets pretty frustrating that you don't get the skin you want to complete your collection.”
- optimization3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- -33 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The game's optimization has been criticized, with users noting that despite the fun cosmetic features, the overall performance is lacking and could benefit from significant improvements.
“All the while you are collecting skins (and hats!) that you can dress up your loot box with to make it more visually appealing, or to improve its performance, like racing stripes and flames to make them open faster.”
“Just because you're making a parody game doesn't mean you shouldn't care about proper optimization.”
“Just because you're making a cancerous parody game doesn't mean you shouldn't care about proper optimization.”
“It is very... not optimized.”
- atmosphere3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- -67 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is enhanced by a catchy chiptune main menu song that sets a playful tone, while the in-game music creates a calming environment for players to immerse themselves in. Coupled with stunning graphics and engaging gameplay that includes deep moral choices, the overall atmosphere contributes to a rich and memorable gaming experience.
“The main menu song is a nice jiving chiptune that gets you into the unboxing mood, but then the actual game slips in a nice atmospheric tune to let you mellow out and get lost in the unboxing.”
“Eye-popping graphics, atmospheric music, and in-depth, engaging gameplay that truly challenges the player with deep and moral choices, each one greatly affecting the way the game plays out, make this an almost instant timeless classic.”
“The atmosphere feels lifeless and uninspired, lacking any real immersion.”
“Despite the game's potential, the atmosphere is flat and fails to engage the player.”
“The overall ambiance is dull, making it hard to stay invested in the game.”
- emotional3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its deeply touching story that evokes strong emotional responses, including moments that can bring players to tears. Reviewers highlight its ability to capture the emotional highs and lows of the experience, contributing to its reputation as a benchmark in game design.
“It's a truly touching story which made me shed a singular tear.”
“Game developers always relate most of their mentors in how to make a good game to this one, its flawless gameplay, its touching story and the replayability!”
- replayability3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -67 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The reviews on replayability are mixed, with one user rating it very low at 3/10, indicating minimal replay value, while another user highlights a significantly high replayability, suggesting a strong incentive to play again.
“The game offers immense replayability with its diverse character choices and branching storylines.”
“Each playthrough feels fresh due to the random events and multiple endings available.”
“I love how the game encourages you to try different strategies, making every run unique and exciting.”
“Replayability - 3/10”
“Pretty much no replay value.”
- stability3 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game's stability has been widely criticized, with users reporting numerous glitches, bugs, and clunky performance. Additionally, significant launch issues, including prolonged server downtime, have further marred the experience. Overall, players feel the game was rushed and lacks the polish expected at release.
“We've seen games rushed out the door filled with glitches and bugs.”
“It's buggy, exceptionally ugly, and very, very clunky.”
“The game is a buggy mess, not to mention the day one launch issues (what's with the server being down for 12 hours?).”
