Mummy Sandbox
- October 8, 2021
- z_bill
"Mummy Sandbox" is an open-world survival game set in ancient Egypt. Players must gather resources, craft tools, and build shelter to survive while battling mummies, mythical creatures, and other dangerous enemies. The game features a dynamic weather system, day and night cycles, and a richly detailed world to explore.
Reviews
- Mummy Sandbox offers a unique blend of point-and-click puzzle-solving and digging mechanics, creating an engaging and fun experience.
- The game features a charming art style and a catchy retro soundtrack that enhances its surreal atmosphere.
- Despite its short runtime, the game successfully evokes a sense of progression and discovery, making it a memorable adventure.
- Many players felt that the full release lacked significant new content compared to the demo, leaving them wanting more.
- The game can be confusing at times, with unclear objectives that may lead to trial-and-error gameplay.
- Some reviewers noted that the overall experience feels more like a proof-of-concept rather than a fully fleshed-out game.
- gameplay20 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
The gameplay is a unique blend of point-and-click puzzle-solving and block manipulation reminiscent of early Minecraft, set within small, interconnected vignette spaces that create a strong visual impact. While the mechanics are straightforward and simplistic, they are enhanced by quirky themes, gallows humor, and unexpected elements that keep the experience engaging for about an hour. Overall, the game offers a cohesive and enjoyable experience that appeals to fans of its distinctive aesthetic and lighthearted yet macabre gameplay.
“The gameplay is fun and straightforward: point and click puzzle-solving mixed with a block placing/destroying mechanic that reminds me a lot of the fun of the original Minecraft alpha, being plopped into a small space full of dirt blocks you can remove and, eventually, replace, giving it a very zen garden-like quality as you experiment with how to progress.”
“It’s an hour-long experience that successfully mixes gallows humor and meaty 2D pixels with light Minecraft gameplay, and it's a sequel to the Red Mummy that you can play on itch.io for free.”
“Gameplay is unique in theme, but extremely simplistic in execution.”
“Another important detail to its gameplay cycle is to go with the flow of its logic.”
“Everything about it is a little strange, from the story and presentation to the mechanics, but in a way that feels cohesive; it makes sense that a game that looks like this would also have you digging up corpses and throwing things at them.”
- graphics12 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 8 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The game's graphics feature a unique blend of cartoony 2D art and voxel models, creating a charming and humorous aesthetic reminiscent of the PS1 era. While the visuals are generally well-received and enhance the game's distinct environments, some users noted the presence of occasional glitches. Overall, the art style and character designs contribute positively to the game's appeal.
“This tone is further cemented by a delightfully gonzo art style that pairs cartoony 2D drawings with voxel models combined with a soundtrack made up of simple, yet rich, loops which make every area feel distinct.”
“I found it a bit humorous and loved the visuals.”
“The game offers some nice graphics and environments; although there are some ugly glitches here and there, it is pleasant all the same and has a really great aesthetic.”
“The graphics feel outdated and lack the polish expected from modern games.”
“The art style is reminiscent of the PS1 era, which may not appeal to everyone.”
“While some may find the hand-drawn art charming, it ultimately falls short of current standards.”
- music12 mentions
- 83 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is highly praised for its catchy synth compositions and retro style, enhancing the overall experience with distinct and rich loops that complement the unique art design. Reviewers consistently highlight the soundtrack as a standout feature, contributing to the game's playful and nostalgic atmosphere.
“This tone is further cemented by a delightfully gonzo art style that pairs cartoony 2D drawings with voxel models combined with a soundtrack made up of simple, yet rich, loops which make every area feel distinct.”
“Finally, the music really is very good.”
“Music is retro-style and enjoyable.”
- story10 mentions
- 20 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
The story is quirky and cohesive, beginning with the player as a "meaty bandage" and involving strange mechanics like digging up corpses. Progression is achieved through solving linear puzzles, culminating in a boss fight that delivers an inspirational message. Familiarity with the previous game in the series, 'the red mummy', enhances the understanding of the narrative.
“You dig around sandboxes and incrementally get more abilities, while solving linear puzzles to progress the story.”
“The story ends with a boss fight and leaves you with a nice inspirational message.”
“The story, for what it is, makes a bit more sense if you play 'The Red Mummy', as this does appear to be a series of sorts.”
“So... the story... you start as a single... meaty bandage.”
“Everything about it is a little strange, from the story and presentation to the mechanics, but in a way that feels cohesive; it makes sense that a game that looks like this would also have you digging up corpses and throwing things at them.”
- humor4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game effectively combines gallows humor with engaging 2D pixel art and light Minecraft gameplay, providing a humorous experience that enhances its visual appeal. Players appreciate the blend of dark comedy and charming aesthetics, making it a noteworthy sequel to "The Red Mummy."
“It’s an hour-long experience that successfully mixes gallows humor and meaty 2D pixels with light Minecraft gameplay, and it's a sequel to The Red Mummy that you can play on itch.io for free.”
“I found it a bit humorous and loved the visuals.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is characterized by a consistently ominous yet non-threatening vibe, creating a surreal experience that distinguishes it from competitors that delve into more chaotic or nightmarish themes.
“The overall atmosphere is always slightly ominous, but never scary; it's surreal, but not a genuine fever dream, like some of its competitors.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players report a strong emotional engagement, feeling deeply immersed in the role of a corrupt politician, which evokes a sense of moral conflict and intrigue. This emotional connection enhances the overall gaming experience, making players reflect on themes of corruption and ethics.
- stability2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
While the game features appealing graphics and environments, players have reported occasional glitches that detract from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the aesthetic remains enjoyable.