Mind Scanners
- November 30, 2021
- The Outer Zone
- 3h median play time
A compelling cyberpunk story told in an imaginative way, and one that will really test your moral compass.
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Get on Epic Games Store"Mind Scanners" is a psychiatry simulation set in a retro-futuristic, dystopian metropolis called The Structure. As a mind scanner, you'll diagnose and treat citizens using unique arcade-style devices, while managing your time and resources to maintain balance. Face moral dilemmas, join or report the resistance group Moonrise, and gain The Structure's trust to reunite with your daughter in this immersive and thought-provoking game.
Mac OS
Nintendo Switch
PC
Windows
Xbox One
Xbox Series X|S
Tablet
Xbox
Reviews
- Engaging gameplay loop with a mix of mini-games that keeps players invested.
- Rich world-building and character development, making each patient feel unique and memorable.
- Thought-provoking themes surrounding mental health and societal norms, encouraging players to reflect on their choices.
- Repetitive gameplay can lead to boredom, especially with similar mini-games throughout the experience.
- Lack of clear instructions for mini-games can lead to confusion and frustration for players.
- The story can feel shallow and predictable, with limited impact from player choices on the overall narrative.
- story185 mentions
- 35 % positive mentions
- 63 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
The game's story is a mixed bag, with many players appreciating its intriguing characters and multiple endings, while others find it shallow and repetitive. The narrative often takes a backseat to gameplay mechanics, leading to a disconnect between the story and player engagement. Overall, while the aesthetic and thematic elements resonate with some, the execution leaves room for improvement, particularly in depth and complexity.
“The dynamic, the variety of endings, but mostly the rich story makes Mindscanners one of my favorite games ever.”
“The story is compelling.”
“The world has a very thought-out story behind it, and you can tell the developers put a lot of love into it.”
“The story is short and to the point, and focuses more on aesthetics and gameplay.”
“There are many plot holes that are not covered during the thirty days that the game runs.”
“The story also isn't substantial enough to justify how mind-numbing the gameplay loop is.”
- gameplay160 mentions
- 21 % positive mentions
- 71 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the game has received mixed reviews, with many players finding it repetitive and lacking depth, often comparing it unfavorably to "Papers, Please." While some appreciate the unique mechanics and engaging story, others criticize the reliance on simplistic mini-games that can feel tedious and disconnected from the narrative. Overall, the gameplay is seen as a significant drawback, with many players feeling it detracts from the otherwise intriguing world and characters.
“Felt very lucky that I picked this game up; the satisfying gameplay loop and multiple endings captured my attention for hours.”
“The gameplay can be tough, but it's doable and you get better with time.”
“Amazing and intriguing mechanics, very captivating story, nice game design, and I did not feel forced to play again; I actually wanted to play again because even the small parts mattered and every time you play, it is a bit different.”
“However, on the topic of the dull gameplay, the difficulty in the game isn't very interesting, with higher difficulties only adjusting numbers like insanity points and tax rates, and the general game feeling repetitive for its length.”
“The core gameplay loop is dull, boring, and repetitive.”
“Gameplay is mostly boring, repetitive puzzles to pad a thin storyline you've played before.”
- graphics65 mentions
- 42 % positive mentions
- 54 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are characterized by a unique pixel art style that effectively captures a bleak, dystopian sci-fi atmosphere, reminiscent of retro aesthetics and 80s synth culture. While opinions vary on the overall appeal of the art style, many reviewers appreciate its distinctiveness and how it complements the game's themes and narrative. Overall, the visuals are praised for their creativity and consistency, contributing significantly to the game's immersive experience.
“The graphics are beautiful in this strange, pixelated way.”
“It's a unique spin on cyberpunk and Blade Runner aesthetics, with oddly specific, esoteric and minimalist devices in bright orange colors that give an otherworldly and vintage sci-fi feel, which I think is very cool.”
“The aesthetic is on point and the dystopic universe all around it is absolutely atmospheric.”
“Graphics and UI and other elements are a complete ripoff of 'Papers, Please.'”
“Nothing to praise outside of art style and the whole aesthetic (which is not exactly genuine).”
“Similar to how the controller isn't supported, there's just a dearth of configurable settings, especially around controls and graphics.”
- music39 mentions
- 51 % positive mentions
- 41 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received widespread praise for its retro synth style, effectively enhancing the dystopian atmosphere and overall aesthetic. While many players appreciate the soundtrack's quality and unique sound design, some note that it can be repetitive. Overall, the combination of music, art, and sound design contributes significantly to the game's immersive experience.
“I love the music, the graphic style, the setting and world-building; even the minigames are interesting if a bit repetitive.”
“The music is kind of retro with plenty of synth.”
“The dystopian setting and carefully crafted music really help to set the mood.”
“The soundtrack is repetitive and boring.”
“The game does a lot with a little in terms of music, and if anything nails the dystopian feel, it's the music.”
“But graphics and music don't outweigh the obnoxious minigames that force you to learn as you go, with arbitrary 'help' information in your user manual, and some items being borderline useless.”
- replayability22 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 59 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's replayability is a mixed bag, with some players appreciating the multiple endings, branching pathways, and unique character interactions that encourage several playthroughs. However, others feel that the short playtime and certain gameplay mechanics limit the overall replay value, leading to a consensus that while there is potential for replayability, it may not be as high as expected. Many players suggest that the experience is best enjoyed in a limited number of runs, typically around 2-4, before it loses its novelty.
“It also includes light branching pathways with a relatively short playtime, multiple endings, and numerous interactions per character, boosting replay value considerably.”
“The amount of characters and random (but not game-changing) events is what makes the game interesting and replayable to me.”
“It has high replayability, not just because the machines are fun to use, but because there are so many unique characters; meeting and treating them all is impossible in just one playthrough.”
“Replayability: 2/10 (not as replayable as Papers, Please)”
“Although I finished it 3 times (1 normal, 2 easy) because I wanted to see the other endings, there is barely any actual replayability.”
“It has no replayability because of the debilitating gameplay loop; I understand it's part of 'making a point' in the story with what your character does, but gosh that's too pedantic.”
- emotional11 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is characterized by a blend of heartwarming and intense experiences, as players navigate complex character interactions that evoke both empathy and moral dilemmas. While some players find the emotional depth and personal stories engaging and touching, others feel overwhelmed by the time pressure and repetitive encounters, leading to a sense of disappointment in the overall emotional impact. The game's ability to provoke reflection on sanity and personal connections adds to its emotional complexity, though not all players resonate with the core emotional narrative.
“The funny characters added some nice humor to the game, while more somber characters really made you feel for them, and helping them through their grief was incredibly heartwarming and satisfying.”
“Hearing about how well or bad they're doing after you treat them is the most effective part of the game and can be genuinely heartwarming or horrifying.”
“Enjoyed the emotional and moral complexities that this game's society and mechanics introduce, and I'm finding a lot of replay value in exploring all those options.”
- grinding11 mentions
- 9 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 91 % negative mentions
Overall, players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious, with many mini-games feeling repetitive and drawn out, particularly in easier modes. While some elements, like the personality gauge and various treatments, add a layer of engagement, they often contribute to a sense of monotony that detracts from the overall enjoyment. Despite this, the game's story and art are appreciated, providing a compelling backdrop to the grinding experience.
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“The personality gauge is also a cool concept, but it just feels tedious to keep having to prevent its drop via a new device or drugs.”
“Ultimately, the gameplay feels more tedious to me than fun, but other than that, it's a very cool story, has beautiful art, and a cool world to read about.”
“Because the majority of the game time is spent doing these mini games, it really started to get tedious by the end.”
- humor11 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's humor is characterized by a blend of quirky characters and witty dialogue, providing a lighthearted contrast to more serious themes. Players appreciate the funny lore and amusing interactions, particularly with a humorous companion character, though some note that the writing lacks depth. Overall, the humor is seen as a charming addition that enhances the gameplay experience.
“The funny characters added some nice humor to the game, while more somber characters really made you feel for them, and helping them through their grief was incredibly heartwarming and satisfying.”
“Very cool and retro futuristic, sprinkled with little bits of humor.”
“Really like the characters, and the little Siri-like companion made me laugh on multiple occasions.”
- atmosphere9 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is generally praised for its unique and immersive qualities, with many reviewers highlighting the effective world-building, consistent graphics, and strong music. While some comparisons to "Papers, Please" suggest it may not reach the same atmospheric heights, the overall aesthetic and dystopian setting contribute to a deeply engaging experience.
“It's a short and fun game for completionists and people who enjoy a feel from atmosphere, along with small details in the world building.”
“The aesthetic is on point and the dystopic universe all around it is absolutely atmospheric.”
“Just saying 'it's like Papers, Please' isn't really enough; while I enjoyed this game, I don't think it reaches the heights of Papers, Please, and it gave me a new appreciation for how the mechanics of Papers, Please enhanced the atmosphere.”
“More than any other issue was just the lack of atmosphere provided by Papers, Please.”
“The atmosphere of the game is weird, but in a very good way.”
- character development2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is highly praised for its exceptional art and animation, showcasing meticulous attention to mechanical and character designs. The extensive world-building and thoughtful writing contribute to a rich and immersive experience, enhancing player engagement with the characters.
“Lots of work clearly went into the character designs, world-building, and writing, making for an awesome and immersive game.”
“It also just looks amazing with all of the art and animation being excellent, along with the mechanical and character designs.”
- monetization1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization aspect of the game is not explicitly mentioned in the provided text, focusing instead on the solid story, day limit, and multiple endings that enhance replayability. Therefore, no specific insights on monetization can be derived from this review.
