Get on Steam"Kite" is set in a bio-mechanical paradise, where peace has been achieved through disarmament. However, when a security breach threatens a weapons research facility, players step into the role of a Human-Operated Remote Droid prototype, tasked with eliminating rebellious bots, including advanced Charge Bots, to secure the facility. This fast-paced action game offers challenging battles and cutting-edge combat systems.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game features a nostalgic aesthetic and gameplay reminiscent of classic top-down shooters, with a dynamic upgrade system and a variety of weapons.
- The soundtrack and pixel art are highly praised, contributing to an immersive retro experience that appeals to fans of the genre.
- Gameplay is challenging yet rewarding, with a ranking system that encourages skillful play and speedrunning.
- The game suffers from critical bugs that can hinder progress, and there are concerns about the developer's lack of support and communication.
- Content is limited, with only 14 levels and a lack of variety in objectives and boss fights, leaving players wanting more.
- Some players find the difficulty unbalanced, particularly towards the end of the game, leading to frustration despite upgrades.
- gameplay18 mentions
- 22 % positive mentions
- 61 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
The gameplay is praised for its dynamic and nostalgic feel, reminiscent of classic top-down shooters from the NES and Genesis eras. Players appreciate the smooth mechanics, engaging bullet hell elements, and a blend of retro and modern features, resulting in a fast-paced and entertaining experience. The combination of beautiful pixel art and a rich soundtrack further enhances the overall enjoyment.
“I would say that gameplay feels very dynamic as far as this genre goes.”
“Smooth gameplay and seemingly plenty of content.”
“What a refreshing piece of beautiful pixel art and entertaining gameplay combined.”
“In terms of gameplay, it is fast, tough, and sometimes a little frenetic.”
“Dakabot is reminiscent of a Dr. Robotnik creation, utilizing bullet hell, enemy waves, and of course, a mechanical evil laugh.”
“It takes several classic mechanics and puts them on overdrive, then somehow finds a way to give many modern elements a dose of retro-bodacious dignity.”
- music12 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received high praise for its captivating synthwave soundtrack, which complements the retro aesthetic and pixel art beautifully. Reviewers highlight its soothing yet immersive quality, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. Many express a desire for a standalone soundtrack release, indicating its significant impact on their enjoyment of the game.
“Kite is an incredible twin stick shooter with gorgeous pixel art, a bomb synthwave soundtrack, and a retro experience that blasts you back to 80's gaming.”
“The UI and the general theme of the game are well matched, and the music has an excellent somber synthy vibe that fits like a glove.”
“I love the gameplay, art, and mostly the music!”
“The music will soothe your soul, just in time to be murdered by punchbot.”
“You should release a soundtrack.”
- graphics10 mentions
- 30 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are praised for their nostalgic cyberpunk and synthwave aesthetic, reminiscent of classic titles like Syndicate. Each of the 14 levels features distinct visuals, objectives, and enemies, contributing to a diverse and engaging visual experience. Overall, the art style is considered a standout aspect, appealing to fans of retro gaming aesthetics.
“Kite is actually both cyberpunk and synthwave; that is about as dope as the art style can get.”
“I am pretty sure the upgrade system is a little nod to the Syndicate; even the colors of the game remind me of that aesthetic.”
“Exactly my kind of graphics.”
- story6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The story is set in a retro-future where secret weapons manufacturing and malfunctioning robotic protections create a compelling narrative centered on humanity versus AI. It offers a fresh perspective with high replay value due to extensive customization and encourages speed running through its level grading system. Overall, the narrative is described as fast-paced and engaging.
“The story is set in a retro-future with secret weapons manufacturing and robotic protections, which of course, go awry.”
“The story is a fresh take on humanity vs AI; the customization allows for never-ending replay value, and the need to get an 'S' on every level inspires speed running at its finest.”
“Fast and punchy is the short story.”
“The story is a fresh take on humanity vs AI, but it feels underdeveloped and lacks depth.”
“Fast and punchy is the short story, but it sacrifices character development and emotional engagement.”
“The story is set in a retro-future with secret weapons manufacturing and robotic protections, which of course, go awry, but it fails to deliver a compelling narrative.”
- optimization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
Reviews indicate that the game's optimization is lacking, making it difficult for players to envision an efficient speed run. Overall, the performance issues hinder the gameplay experience.
“I can't even imagine what an optimized speed run of this game would look like.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players highlight the game's strong replayability due to its engaging story centered on humanity versus AI, extensive customization options, and the challenge of achieving an "S" rank on every level, which encourages speedrunning.
“The story is a fresh take on humanity vs AI, the customization allows for never-ending replay value, and the need to get an 'S' on every level inspires speed running at its finest.”
