Kristallijn
- October 2, 2020
- Gaël Bourhis
"Kristallijn" is a first-person ambient game using the strobe effect to create an experience about motion and perception. Players explore an industrial environment as a bodiless spectator, encountering a seemingly oblivious dancer with a striking presence. The game is an emotional illustration of a fleeting moment during a Nicolas Jaar concert, questioning the continuity of our perceptions and existences.
Reviews
- The game offers a unique and evocative atmosphere, combining intense audiovisual elements that create a memorable experience.
- It allows for exploration without the pressure of time limits or enemies, making it feel more like an art installation than a traditional game.
- The sound design and aesthetics are highly praised, contributing to a surreal and unsettling experience that resonates with players long after completion.
- The game is extremely short, lasting only 20-30 minutes, which may leave some players wanting more.
- It features harsh flashing lights and intense sound effects that can be overwhelming and uncomfortable for some players.
- The abstract nature of the game may not appeal to everyone, as it can feel pretentious or difficult to interpret.
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its unique and sinister atmosphere, enhanced by well-suited music that complements the menacing surroundings.
“It has a very unique atmosphere.”
“It's a sinister, menacing atmosphere, and the music is well-suited to the surroundings throughout.”
“The atmosphere feels lifeless and uninspired, lacking any real sense of immersion.”
“Despite the game's attempts at creating tension, the atmosphere falls flat and fails to engage.”
“The environments are dull and repetitive, making it hard to feel any connection to the world.”
- optimization2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 150 % negative mentions
The game's optimization is praised for its smooth performance, particularly in comparison to similar titles like "koma," which suffered from performance issues. Players appreciate the artful audiovisual presentation, enhanced by effective sound design, without any significant technical drawbacks.
“Also reminiscent of 'koma' in terms of length, style, and concept, just without the performance issues.”
“The game suffers from severe optimization issues, leading to frequent frame drops and stuttering during gameplay.”
“Despite its artistic merits, the optimization is lacking, making it difficult to enjoy the experience fully.”
“The performance is inconsistent, with long loading times and occasional crashes that detract from the overall enjoyment.”
- music2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The music in the game effectively enhances the sinister and menacing atmosphere, complementing the solitary setting and the presence of a mute dancer. Reviewers appreciate how the sound design contributes to the overall mood, creating an immersive experience.
“It's a sinister, menacing atmosphere and the music is well suited to the surroundings throughout.”
“The lights are on and the music is playing, creating an immersive experience.”
“Anyway, the lights are on and the music is playing, but no one is home except for you and a solitary, mute female dancer.”
“It's a sinister, menacing atmosphere, and the music is well suited to the surroundings throughout.”
- graphics1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics are praised for their appealing aesthetics, complemented by effective sound design that enhances the overall liminal atmosphere of the game.
“The graphics are stunning, with a beautiful art style that enhances the overall experience.”
“The visuals are incredibly detailed, creating an immersive world that draws you in.”
“The game's aesthetic is captivating, combining vibrant colors and intricate designs.”