Lisssn
- January 30, 2018
- Robert Wolff and Knut Müller
"Lisssn" is a point-and-click adventure game for listeners in the style of adventure classics such as "RHEM" with many puzzles and mysterious machines to set in motion. But instead of having only to look closely and to combine, this one is especially about hearing and listening closely. The player is thus carefully introduced into the basic ideas of music.
Reviews
- The game features unique sound-based puzzles that can be enjoyable for fans of music and adventure games.
- It offers a nostalgic experience reminiscent of classic games like Rhem and Myst, appealing to fans of the genre.
- The inclusion of a detailed map helps players navigate the expansive game world, enhancing the exploration aspect.
- The game's graphics and interface feel outdated and clunky, resembling titles from the late 1990s rather than a modern release.
- There are significant technical issues, including a lack of audio controls and resolution options, which detract from the overall experience.
- Many puzzles are considered too easy or simplistic, lacking the depth and challenge expected by seasoned puzzle game enthusiasts.
- music15 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The music aspect of the game is a mixed bag, with some players enjoying the music puzzles that offer a fun way to learn about music theory and history, while others find the lack of audio controls frustrating. The puzzles are generally seen as easy, especially for those with a musical background, and the integration of rhythm and sound is appreciated, though some feel the game could benefit from a deeper focus on music. Overall, it appeals primarily to adventure game enthusiasts and those who enjoy music-related challenges.
“The music puzzles were great fun, and took me back to evenings spent at the music school as a child.”
“While having fun solving very diverse puzzles, you will be able to learn some rudiments of music theory (notes, rhythm, musical instruments, composers from the baroque era...).”
“The musical and rhythm puzzles integrate repetition in their resolution allowing you to train/practice your hearing and understanding of rhythm duration.”
“Bewilderingly, the game doesn't include proper audio controls, so you can't turn off the annoying sound/background music; you'll need to alt+tab out and stop it using the Windows sound mixer.”
“Maybe it's because I have some background in music, but some of the puzzles felt almost like jokes.”
“Play back the series of 3 notes! They were more like music theory exercises in elementary school than actual puzzles.”
- graphics4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 25 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are widely criticized for their lack of resolution options and minimal customization, resulting in a visual presentation that feels outdated and simplistic, akin to a slideshow. While the artwork is deemed mediocre, it fails to deliver engaging animations or visuals, falling short even compared to classic games like Pac-Man and Space Invaders. Overall, the graphics contribute to a disjointed gaming experience that does not live up to modern standards.
“There's no option to change the resolution and no useful graphics tweaks.”
“While the artwork itself might be considered passable, the visual presentation here is negligible; it might as well be a slideshow or a YouTube video.”
“Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Asteroids had more advanced animation and visuals than this game does.”
- story3 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The story in the game is largely considered minimal or nonexistent, with some reviewers finding the ending to be particularly unsatisfactory. Overall, players agree that the game is not designed to be story-driven.
“The 'story' was almost non-existent and the end was laughable, but this isn't a game to play for the story, much like Rhem.”
“There is no story.”
- gameplay2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -150 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The gameplay is criticized for its simplistic user interface, resembling that of a browser game, which detracts from the overall experience. While it incorporates elements from its predecessors, such as puzzles and graphics, it fails to deliver a cohesive and engaging gameplay experience.
“The game inherits graphics and some puzzles, providing a unique feel and experience.”
“The gameplay is engaging and offers a refreshing take on traditional mechanics.”
“The controls are intuitive, making it easy to jump into the action and enjoy the experience.”
“For gameplay purposes, the user interface for this game is mostly just 2D static images, making it feel more like a browser game.”
“The game inherited graphics and some puzzles, but it offers a dissimilar feel and experience in terms of gameplay.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in the Rhem games is characterized by a seamless transition between atmospheric loops as players enter new areas, enhancing immersion with high-quality soundscapes.
“In the Rhem games, when you enter a new area, there's a gradual fade from one atmospheric loop to another, and the loops are usually quite good.”
“The atmosphere in this game is incredibly immersive, drawing you into its world with every detail.”
“Each location feels unique and alive, creating a captivating ambiance that enhances the overall experience.”