Last Call BBS

95%
Game Brain Score Based on 888 reviews
  • graphics
  • story
  • gameplay
Last Call BBS Game Cover
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Last Call BBS is a single-player and local multiplayer science fiction arcade game with stunning visuals and fantastic music. It offers eight mini-games, including 20th Century Food Court, STEED FORCE Hobby Studio, X’BPGH: The Forbidden Path, Sawayama Solitaire, and Dungeons & Diagrams. The game features puzzle-focused challenges, co-op and PvP modes, and a split-screen for an immersive and highly emotional experience.

  • Mac OS
  • PC
  • Windows
  • Linux
  • Xbox
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

95%
Audience ScoreBased on 888 reviews
graphics17 positive mentions
grinding5 negative mentions
  • A charming collection of diverse puzzle games that evoke nostalgia for the early days of computing.
  • Each mini-game offers unique mechanics and challenges, providing a satisfying experience for puzzle enthusiasts.
  • The inclusion of a model-building simulator adds a relaxing and creative element to the gameplay.
  • Some mini-games lack clear instructions, making it difficult for new players to understand the mechanics.
  • The forced waiting time between downloading games can be frustrating and disrupts the flow of gameplay.
  • Not all mini-games are equally engaging, leading to a mixed experience depending on personal preferences.
  • graphics51 mentions

    The graphics of the game are widely praised for their nostalgic retro aesthetic, effectively capturing the essence of early internet and 90s gaming culture. Reviewers highlight the beautiful art design, unique visual styles for each mini-game, and the immersive soundscapes that enhance the overall experience. While some note limitations in graphical fidelity compared to modern standards, the charm and creativity of the visuals resonate strongly with fans of the genre.

    • “The visuals and effects are really great.”
    • “Incredible art design, both graphics and audio - the nostalgia-inducing sound of the fan turning off when you shut down the computer is worth the cost of admission.”
    • “The aesthetic of it all, emulating the feel of an old-school computer is so fun, and the soundtrack has been insanely catchy so far.”
    • “I didn't really care for the graphics; using a Japanese card deck is an interesting idea, but it results in a very monochromatic tableau.”
    • “Drab, software-package style aesthetic, minimal sound effects and no music.”
    • “Graphics were limited to smaller resolutions, smaller budgets, smaller memory allocation, and smaller, closer-knit communities who came together to play these games and just chat.”
  • story33 mentions

    The story in "Last Call BBS" is a nostalgic exploration of 90s computer culture, presented through a collection of mini-games that each have their own quirky backstories. While the overarching narrative is minimal and often requires players to engage with the games to unlock story elements, many reviewers appreciate the charming details and historical references that enhance the experience. Overall, the storytelling is seen as a delightful addition that complements the gameplay, even if it doesn't reach the depth of previous titles by the developers.

    • “The real standout is the presentation of the collection itself; I don't believe I've ever seen a mini-game collection that has lore and a backstory, and the visuals are wonderful, both for the games and the 'system' itself.”
    • “On top of that, there's also a nostalgic story for every game that offers a snapshot into a semi-fictionalized world of computing in the late 80s and early 90s.”
    • “They could've left the story out completely and the game still would've been great, but I'm so glad they didn't because the world that is painted with all these little details comes together in such an amazing way.”
    • “I can not, in good faith, give a game a good review (in a system that only allows 'yays' and 'nays') that requires me to win multiple games of solitaire for complete story progression.”
    • “Normally this would be no bother, but all story notes are tucked away behind beating these games in Last Call BBS, and I will not get to read those last snippets and truly finish it.”
    • “Not as story heavy as their other titles.”
  • gameplay32 mentions

    The gameplay is characterized by a diverse collection of mini-games, each featuring unique mechanics and engaging puzzles that range from easy to complex. While many players appreciate the intuitive design and satisfying problem-solving elements, some express frustration with the lack of clear tutorials and occasional repetitive mechanics. Overall, the game offers a rich experience with a good balance of challenge and accessibility, making it a worthwhile investment for puzzle enthusiasts.

    • “The mini-games range pretty wildly in both mechanics and presentation; you are almost guaranteed to find one that you like, and probably more.”
    • “Great story hidden within unlocking all the games, and each game has the great combination of easy to learn, hard to master gameplay of all the Zachtronics games before.”
    • “All the puzzle games are of the level we've come to expect, while also managing to be incredibly diverse both in mechanics and presentation.”
    • “It is long-winded puzzles with a lot of clicking, and when you have figured out the puzzle, there's actually very little gameplay.”
    • “A bunch of lovely little puzzle games, but you kind of just get thrown into some without proper explanations of the mechanics, which personally led me to frustrating trial and error when new mechanics were needed.”
    • “Sadly, the three bar graphs/high score system are missing from a few of them that should have them, which made it hard to know if solutions were poorly optimized, thus harming the difficulty curve for some of the latter puzzles.”
  • music30 mentions

    The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many praising its nostalgic 90s vibe and catchy soundtracks that enhance the overall experience. While some players found certain tracks to be overbearing or repetitive, others appreciated the contemplative and eerie themes that complemented the puzzle mechanics. Overall, the music is seen as a significant aspect of the game's charm, contributing to its unique aesthetic and emotional resonance.

    • “The music, the visuals, the vibes, it's all impeccable.”
    • “As usual, a stellar soundtrack by Matthew Seiji Burns.”
    • “The aesthetic of it all, emulating the feel of an old-school computer is so fun, and the soundtrack has been insanely catchy so far.”
    • “Drab, software-package style aesthetic, minimal sound effects and no music.”
    • “The only nitpick I have is that it is the only mini-game without background music, which fits with the theming, but is still mildly annoying as you have to either sit in silence or alt-tab and start up some music yourself.”
    • “Chipwizard™ professional: circuit making/space management puzzle game presented as a piece of CAD software - very clever - again very high difficulty curve - lack of music is thematically fitting but it feels a bit of a loss.”
  • emotional12 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game elicits a wide range of feelings, from nostalgia and childlike joy to frustration and self-doubt. While some players find the collection of games lacking in emotional depth compared to classic retro titles, others experience a heartfelt connection, recalling fond memories of their early gaming experiences. Overall, the game serves as a charming tribute to the developer's impact on the puzzle genre, evoking both joy and introspection among players.

    • “This game made me feel a sense of childlike joy I have not felt in about a decade.”
    • “Seeing some remakes of games from Zachtronics' flash era made me feel emotions I didn't know existed.”
    • “A charming, heartfelt sendoff to a developer that has forever changed how I see puzzle games.”
  • optimization10 mentions

    The game's optimization features are generally well-received, with players appreciating the challenge and depth it offers, particularly in the context of single-handed play. While some users noted the absence of certain scoring systems that could enhance the optimization experience, the overall performance and gameplay mechanics align with the high standards typical of Zachtronics titles. Despite initial reservations, many players found the optimization aspect to be engaging and rewarding as they progressed.

    • “Optimized for single-handed play.”
    • “I love the automation and optimization game genre, and this is another great entry in that world (plus some other fun puzzle games thrown in as well).”
    • “Optimization is incredibly challenging.”
    • “It's a bit more, but it has a minigame about the same exact topic, except in my opinion, it's better in every way: graphics (retro graphics are usually more charming), performance, gameplay, UI, even story.”
    • “Sadly, the three bar graphs/high score system are missing from a few of them that should have them. I found this most annoying for the flesh-growing game, as that made it hard to know if solutions were poorly optimized, thus harming the difficulty curve for some of the latter puzzles. I wasn't properly incentivized to redo early puzzles to master the mechanics like most Zachtronics titles encourage.”
    • “I usually don't get that far into Zachtronics games - my brain just doesn't really spin fast enough for optimization and logic puzzles.”
  • humor7 mentions

    The humor in the game is described as a mix of clever and absurd, with some minigames eliciting genuine laughter, while others fall flat due to poor instructions and frustrating mechanics. Players find the experience amusing at times, particularly with the quirky narrative and the absurdity of waiting for games to download, but the overall execution can be hit or miss, leading to mixed reactions.

    • “A collection of minigames that are both funny and clever (Chipwizard and 20th Century Food are the best).”
    • “Each of these is absolutely polished, tied neatly into the 'using a funny computer to browse a BBS' experience, with an intriguing set of narrative snippets that resonate really well for me.”
    • “Kinda hilarious I kept defaulting back to Solitaire though.”
  • atmosphere7 mentions

    The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its engaging and immersive qualities, blending elements of comfort and cosmic horror. While some users note quirks in the user interface that can detract from the experience, the overall aesthetic, sound design, and art style contribute significantly to the enjoyment and appreciation of the game.

    • “Another brilliant Zachtronics game with fun puzzling and an engaging atmosphere!”
    • “In all seriousness, the atmosphere of the game is great. I love the sounds of the dial-up modem and that you have to wait for the 'downloading' of your games.”
    • “I still need to put more time into it in order to learn how the game actually functions, but I can say that the atmosphere and the art style are great.”
    • “It's not without its own quirks and pitfalls, and you might not enjoy every game it has to offer, but I just dig the atmosphere.”
    • “It's all baked into the game atmosphere and makes me appreciate everything in the package so much more.”
  • grinding6 mentions

    Users generally find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and time-consuming, with some expressing frustration over the lack of tools for precision. While a few appreciate the nostalgic value and variety of puzzles, the overall sentiment leans towards grinding being a burdensome experience that detracts from enjoyment.

    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “There is no paint brush, pencil, fill bucket, or even a zoom-in feature, making it very tedious to get anything pixel perfect.”
    • “Maybe I just didn't enjoy this game because of the high expectations set by the review score and reviews in general, but I just found it... tedious?”
    • “I am sure this scratches a nostalgia itch for some out there, but I found it tedious.”
  • monetization1 mentions

    Reviews indicate a strong sentiment against the monetization practices in gaming, particularly criticizing the rise of AAA studios, always-online requirements, and the prevalence of DLC and microtransactions, which many feel have transformed gaming into a profit-driven enterprise at the expense of player experience.

    • “Before AAA studios, always-on requirements, DLC, and microtransactions rolled in, they corrupted the gaming experience into a multi-billion dollar enterprise.”
    • “The monetization model feels exploitative, prioritizing profit over player experience.”
    • “It's frustrating to see essential game features locked behind paywalls, making it feel like a cash grab rather than a fair gaming experience.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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Play time

23hMedian play time
25hAverage play time
13-56hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 4 analyzed playthroughs

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