Microtransaction Simulator
- September 14, 2017
- chlsea
- 6h median play time
Live your wildest dreams by splurging on insane amounts of cash you wouldn't have in real life. Play for random number generated loot that is a reflection of the meaningless nature of this game and everything surrounding it.
Reviews
- The game provides a humorous and satirical take on the microtransaction model, making it an entertaining experience.
- It's a free game that offers a surprisingly addictive gameplay loop, allowing players to enjoy the thrill of opening packs without real financial risk.
- Many players found it to be a great way to pass the time, with easy achievements that can be unlocked quickly.
- The game suffers from numerous bugs, including issues with saving progress and unresponsive buttons, which can hinder the experience.
- Graphics and overall presentation are very simplistic and may not appeal to players looking for a polished game.
- Gameplay can become repetitive quickly, leading to a lack of long-term engagement.
- monetization49 mentions
- 18 % positive mentions
- 76 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The reviews highlight a complex relationship with monetization, particularly microtransactions. While some players appreciate the game's simulation of microtransactions without actual financial costs, others criticize the prevalence of microtransactions in gaming as exploitative. Overall, the game is seen as a light-hearted take on the microtransaction model, providing entertainment without the financial burden typically associated with such systems.
“In this digital masquerade, my in-game character donned opulent attire, resplendent in gilded armor purchased with a virtual treasury depleted by microtransactions.”
“Really good game, I enjoyed it a lot and it showed me the way of the microtransactions we find in all of these games. It finally opened up my eyes and now I realize how much I've wasted on hats.”
“Simulates microtransactions in video games perfectly!”
“It's ridiculous what shoving a bunch of microtransactions down your player base's throats can do to a game.”
“Drains your soul, just like other games with microtransactions.”
“Although I don't feel like it wholly captured the essence of microtransactions, it does illustrate the necessity of time-saving by spending money.”
- gameplay32 mentions
- 28 % positive mentions
- 63 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The gameplay experience varies significantly among users, with some describing it as overly simplistic and repetitive, primarily involving clicking to generate cards for sale. In contrast, others praise the combat mechanics and overall fun, highlighting a balanced and engaging experience, particularly in multiplayer settings. While some find the gameplay innovative and refreshing, others feel it lacks depth and variety, suggesting a need for more engaging mechanics.
“Gameplay is fun, combat is balanced, matchmaking doesn't take too long, and the community isn't toxic.”
“Quality gameplay definitely on my list for game of the year 10/10.”
“Lastly the game has really fun gameplay and an in-depth combat system.”
“Basically a 1-2 days development game with no mechanics at all.”
“The entire gameplay consists of clicking 'open', which generates 4 cards with different colors and values that you can later sell from your inventory.”
“+- besides some minigames, the gameplay is pretty repetitive.”
- graphics29 mentions
- 24 % positive mentions
- 66 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The reviews for the game's graphics are highly polarized, with some users criticizing them as simplistic, repetitive, and lacking effort, while others praise the visuals as amazing, detailed, and even revolutionary for the genre. Many comments highlight a stark contrast between minimalistic designs and high-quality graphics, indicating that while some players appreciate the artistic direction, others find it visually unappealing. Overall, the graphics seem to evoke strong opinions, ranging from "horribly boring" to "astonishing."
“Graphics are amazing, and don't get me started on the gameplay (which is phenomenal).”
“F**king amazing storyline and cutting edge graphics, represents the true cruelty of AAA games.”
“Its graphics are simply astonishing for this era; each human looks realistic and hair from animal’s fur all seems to be placed individually.”
“The implementation here is laughably terrible, and I'm not talking about just the visuals (but look at the screenshots, it's that bad).”
“Horribly boring clicker with garbage graphics.”
“But to newcomers, the visuals can look pretty poor and lack effort.”
- story23 mentions
- 39 % positive mentions
- 48 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The game's story is widely praised for its depth, emotional impact, and intricate world-building, with many players highlighting its ability to evoke strong feelings and create a memorable experience. However, some reviews note that the narrative falters in later chapters, and while the main plot may feel derivative, the atmospheric details and side elements are appreciated. Overall, the storytelling is considered a significant strength, contributing to the game's status as a modern masterpiece.
“But, after just a short time playing this game, no... this masterpiece, from its incredible story, the heart-wrenching moments, all the way to the simple sound design, this game is truly a wonder to our modern world of gaming.”
“I played this game for 18.2 hours straight because of its enthralling story and extremely detailed graphics.”
“It’s story and lore is well crafted, each word delicately placed to create a beautiful experience, a wonderful yet dark look at today’s societal fears and culture.”
“The game starts off well, but the story starts to fall apart around chapter 3, and it never recovers.”
“Its villain is a derivative conqueror figure with a hunger for power and destruction, and the save-the-world plot is tired.”
“The story's strengths lie in atmosphere and side details, like the endearing craziness of the deranged AI failsafe or the mysteries of the Vex machine race, and that should be fine for the majority of players who see the story as something to rush through in order to reach the high-level 'endgame.' The mournful soundtrack in particular is fantastic, and it carried me through the most basic story beats, even on repeat playthroughs.”
- music18 mentions
- 28 % positive mentions
- 39 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally described as repetitive and can become annoying due to its looping nature, especially when it restarts upon switching screens. While some players appreciate the atmospheric qualities of the soundtrack, others find it tedious and hope for options to separate music from sound effects. Overall, the music is seen as average, with moments of praise for its ability to enhance the game's atmosphere.
“A magical RPG-sandbox-MMO-FPS, beautiful story, great narrative, amazing music, awesome gameplay; the grass on the ground is so real you can smoke it.”
“The mournful soundtrack in particular is fantastic, and it carried me through the most basic story beats, even on repeat playthroughs.”
“The music fits the atmosphere so well that you don't even notice how well it blends in.”
“There's only one repetitive song and basic sound effects.”
“Every time you switch screens in the game, it restarts the horrible music loop, which is ear-damagingly awful.”
“Overall, the music is average but can get pretty tedious over time.”
- humor8 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game receives mixed reviews; while some players find it genuinely funny and addictive, others criticize it for lacking depth and relevance, suggesting that it may not belong on the Steam store. Overall, the comedic elements are appreciated by some, but the execution and context leave room for improvement.
“It's funny because it's true...”
“However, it's hilarious and way too addicting for its own good.”
“It's a funny little game.”
- grinding5 mentions
- 60 % positive mentions
- -40 % neutral mentions
- 80 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious and boring, particularly due to the repetitive nature of opening individual card packs and the need for additional lives to continue grinding. While some players appreciate the ability to earn money through trading cards, the overall experience is often described as monotonous.
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“Grinding in this game is incredibly rewarding and keeps you engaged.”
“The grind is satisfying and offers a real sense of progression.”
“Very tedious as far as achievements go and very boring as far as a 'game' goes.”
“Each pack contains four cards, which you have to open individually, which becomes tedious very fast.”
“Overall, music is average but can get pretty tedious over time.”
- atmosphere5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is highly praised, characterized by a dark and immersive environment that enhances the storytelling experience. Players appreciate the mournful soundtrack, which seamlessly integrates with the visuals, creating a captivating backdrop that elevates the overall gameplay. The combination of intriguing side details and a compelling soundscape contributes to a rich and engaging atmosphere.
“The game itself starts you off in a dark, very atmospheric grey room that has many options for you to choose from, such as the ability to stare at the screen or click a nifty little button called 'open' that will open your mind to new possibilities, like the four cards that now stare you in the face.”
“The story's strengths lie in atmosphere and side details, like the endearing craziness of the deranged AI failsafe or the mysteries of the Vex machine race. The mournful soundtrack, in particular, is fantastic and carried me through the most basic story beats, even on repeat playthroughs.”
“The story's strengths lie in atmosphere and side details, like the endearing craziness of the deranged AI failsafe or the mysteries of the Vex machine race. This should be fine for the majority of players who see the story as something to rush through in order to reach the high-level 'endgame.' The mournful soundtrack, in particular, is fantastic and carried me through the most basic story beats, even on repeat playthroughs.”
“The music fits the atmosphere so well that you don't even notice how well it blends in.”
“Atmosphere 10 / 10”
- emotional4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players consistently praise the game's emotional depth, highlighting its incredible storytelling and heart-wrenching moments that evoke strong feelings. Many express a profound sense of pride and accomplishment, further enhanced by the game's design and mechanics, leading to deeply personal and moving experiences. Overall, the game is regarded as a masterpiece that resonates emotionally with its audience.
“But, after just a short time playing this game, no.. this masterpiece, from its incredible story, the heart-wrenching moments, all the way to the simple sound design, this game is truly a wonder to our modern world of gaming.”
“I cried.”
“10/10 made me feel a sense of pride and accomplishment without giving money to EA.”
- stability3 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game's stability has received mixed feedback, with some users reporting significant bugs, such as unintended purchases and uncounted wins, while others have experienced minimal glitches. Overall, the game's stability appears to be inconsistent, with notable issues affecting the experience for some players.
“The game is buggy as heck; if you click 'open' twice, it buys another loot crate and takes your money, but your cards are gone, unopened.”
“Game is buggy; and my 'win' didn't count as a win.”
“As it's a new game, I was expecting a lot of glitches and bugs, but I have not found any.”
- optimization2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The optimization of the game is highly praised, with users noting that it is executed flawlessly.
“First of all, the optimization is spot on.”
“optimization=5”
- replayability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The reviews indicate a low replayability score, with users rating it 4/10 for gameplay and replay value, suggesting that the game lacks engaging elements that encourage repeated playthroughs. Additionally, a poor visual design rating of 1/10 further detracts from the overall experience, likely contributing to the game's limited appeal for replay.
“The game lacks any meaningful choices that would encourage me to play it again.”
“Once you've completed the main story, there's little incentive to replay it.”
“The lack of varied endings or side quests makes replaying feel pointless.”
- character development1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Reviewers praise the character development as a standout feature, highlighting its depth and quality alongside the game's impressive graphics and combat system.
“Wonderful graphics, excellent combat system, and glorious character development.”