Kor
- December 11, 2021
- Goadstool
- 9h median play time
"Kor is a single-player comedy turn-based strategy game with stunning soundtrack and humor. Inspired by classic RPGs and adventure games, it offers a journey through a unique alien world with fast-paced puzzles and battles using Nature, Fire, Water, Shadow, Earth, and Storm attacks. Its retro-style 160x144 resolution graphics and challenging gameplay, with an optional story mode, are sure to entertain players."
Reviews
- Kor captures the nostalgic feel of classic Game Boy RPGs with its charming pixel art, engaging combat system, and catchy music.
- The combat mechanics are unique and rewarding, requiring players to master quick input sequences for effective attacks, adding depth to the gameplay.
- The game features humorous dialogue and a variety of interactable objects, enhancing the overall experience and world-building.
- Some parts of the game, particularly platforming segments and boss fights, can be frustratingly difficult, leading to a steep learning curve.
- Long travel distances with minimal interactions can create moments of monotony during gameplay.
- The story could benefit from more depth and development, as some players found it lacking in substance.
- music50 mentions
- 56 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised as one of its standout features, with a unique and memorable chiptune soundtrack that enhances the overall aesthetic and gameplay experience. Reviewers note that the music is catchy, pleasant, and nostalgic, effectively setting the mood for different areas without being overwhelming. Overall, it complements the charming art and engaging combat, making it a significant highlight of the game.
“The music is undoubtedly one of its standout features; it's a unique and memorable soundtrack that was easy on the ears and not overwhelming when it came to focusing on gameplay.”
“To wrap things up, let me just quickly say that the music is incredibly good, and completes the excellent aesthetic of the game.”
“It must be noted that the music is composed by Lewmoth, and nearly every track had me humming along within 5 minutes of encountering it.”
“The graphics and overworld feel ripped straight out of Pokémon (almost to a fault), and the music reminds me both of some older Game Boy titles (Pokémon Trading Card Game comes to mind) and newer titles (Undertale, Everhood).”
“The art and sprightly music of Kor instantly make you nostalgic for RPGs of old.”
“Other than that, it's a pretty solid game with decent music.”
- gameplay44 mentions
- 36 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The gameplay in "Kor" is characterized by its unique and engaging turn-based combat system, which combines classic mechanics with innovative twists, making it easy to learn yet challenging to master. Players appreciate the responsive controls, risk/reward elements, and the incorporation of fun puzzle mechanics, although some note moments of monotony due to long distances and a reliance on basic attacks. The game is further enhanced by a memorable soundtrack and witty dialogue, contributing to a charming overall experience.
“It has very responsive controls and what seems to be a really good risk/reward mechanic.”
“The combat system is simple, but an innovative twist on classic mechanics.”
“A great indie RPG with mechanics that are easy to learn and hard to master.”
“I also found myself traversing long distances, leading to moments of monotony during gameplay.”
“The only issue I have with it is that I strongly dislike timed button sequences, and these happen to be a core mechanic of the game.”
“Also, it's possible to rely heavily on basic attacks throughout the playthrough, potentially diminishing the depth of the experience.”
- story24 mentions
- 42 % positive mentions
- 46 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The story in the game is generally well-received, with players appreciating its enjoyable narrative, charming dialogue, and thoughtful world-building. However, many feel it could benefit from further development and depth, as it often serves more as an accessory to the gameplay rather than a central focus. Overall, while the story is engaging and complements the experience, it may not be the primary reason to play.
“The story and world building were well thought-out as well, and I enjoyed learning about the world of Kor as I explored.”
“I've been playing classics like Chrono Trigger recently, and man, it's been so hard to find a new game that delivers genuine retro nostalgia while still giving you something new and exciting in terms of mechanics, story, etc. I love the world building in Kor, the OST, the unique combat mechanics, and most of all the writing -- the subversive and witty dialogue always catches me off guard and makes me laugh.”
“The storyline is enjoyable and doesn't feel intrusive.”
“I don't want to dig into the story too much, firstly as not to spoil the experience, but I also don't think the story is the reason to play this game.”
“- The story could have been fleshed out a bit more; more chosen lore would have been cool.”
“I wish there was a bit more to the story, but what's there works for what it is.”
- humor22 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its charming, self-aware humor, with players enjoying the witty dialogue and quirky character interactions. While the combat system is unique and challenging, it is the humorous writing and descriptions that truly enhance the game's appeal, making it a standout experience reminiscent of classic titles. Overall, the humor is a significant highlight, contributing to the game's cute and addictive nature.
“Charming indie game with a self-aware style of humor.”
“My favorite part so far, however, is interacting with everything and reading their funny and witty descriptions.”
“While the combat is interesting and the visual style makes the game stand out, the true appeal of the game is its funny and weird dialogue, which gives it a unique charm.”
- graphics18 mentions
- 44 % positive mentions
- 39 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are heavily inspired by the classic Pokémon titles, successfully capturing the nostalgic pixel art and chiptune aesthetic of the 90s. Reviewers praise the crisp visuals and charming character designs, noting that the overall presentation evokes a strong sense of nostalgia while providing a fresh adventure. The combination of retro graphics and engaging music enhances the game's appeal, making it a delightful experience for fans of old-school aesthetics.
“I did have some problems with some areas being too easy while others were too hard, but overall I love the aesthetic, with the crisp pixel art and wonderful chiptune music transporting you back to the 90s.”
“The graphics and overworld feel ripped straight out of Pokémon (almost to a fault), and the music reminds me both of some older Game Boy titles (Pokémon Trading Card Game comes to mind) and newer titles (Undertale, Everhood).”
“Aesthetically, the game nails that Game Boy look, in the environments and characters as well as in the UI.”
“You saw the graphics when initially looking into this game, so you know it's going for the Pokémon Red/Blue/Green/Yellow feel, and it succeeds.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is praised for successfully evoking the nostalgic charm of classic Pokémon titles from the Game Boy era, creating a magical and immersive experience for players.
“It sets out to capture this magical atmosphere of classic Pokémon games - and by classic, I mean the ones that were on the Game Boy.”