Pixel Ripped 1995
- April 23, 2020
- ARVORE Immersive Experiences
- 3h median play time
Pixel Ripped 1995 is escapism at its finest, a nostalgic love letter to classic gaming that will transport you back to a simpler time.
"Pixel Ripped 1995" is a virtual reality game that takes players on a nostalgic journey through the golden age of 90s gaming. As Dot, a virtual heroine, you must navigate through a variety of 2D pixelated game levels and defeat bosses, all while dealing with the challenges of being a game character. The game cleverly integrates real-world 90s references and parodies, making it a fun and engaging experience for both old-school gamers and newcomers alike.
Reviews
- A fantastic tribute to 90s gaming culture, blending nostalgia with innovative VR mechanics.
- The game features clever gameplay that transitions between different gaming styles and eras, providing a unique experience.
- Well-designed levels and engaging humor make it a memorable and enjoyable experience for both retro gamers and newcomers.
- The game is relatively short, clocking in at only 3-4 hours, which some players feel is not worth the full price.
- There are compatibility issues with certain VR headsets, leading to frustrating gameplay experiences for some users.
- Control schemes can be awkward, particularly when using VR controllers for gameplay that was originally designed for traditional gamepads.
- gameplay24 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The gameplay is a nostalgic blend of 90s gaming styles, incorporating innovative mechanics and clever use of VR that enhances the overall experience. While some players appreciate the unique aesthetic and challenging elements, others find the gameplay to be uneven and lacking polish, with certain mechanics feeling uninspired. Overall, the game successfully evokes childhood memories, though it may benefit from further refinement and depth in its gameplay design.
“The gameplay is innovative and challenging.”
“Aside from the award-deserving soundtrack, the gameplay itself is masterfully done and encompasses so many nods to various games and styles in the 90s.”
“This game is fantastic; the length is just right for the story, and the game mechanics are clever and use VR wonderfully.”
“I hope the next time they spend more time fleshing out better gameplay, or licensing real home console/arcade games to skip that effort and focus more time on physics and poly count.”
“It tries to do many things: platforming, Mega Man-esque gameplay, 3D platforming. I say it tries because the overall gameplay is uninspiring and not as polished as it could be.”
“I get that games were hard back then, but a saving grace to the rushed gameplay that the games being parodied didn't have would be to make them quick to get through.”
- story18 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The story of the game has received high praise for its relatability, humor, and clever integration with VR mechanics, making it a standout in single-player storytelling. Players appreciate its whimsical narrative and engaging situations, often feeling a strong connection to the protagonist's experiences. Many reviewers noted that the story is accessible even for those who haven't played the previous installment, enhancing its appeal.
“The story was great too, I related a lot to it.”
“Best single player VR storytelling game I've ever experienced.”
“I really want to be able to recommend this title, the graphics and story-line were fun and whimsical.”
“A game can have stunning visuals, but it also needs a solid story to back it up.”
“The storyline and situations you get into as David are quite comical and relatable as someone who grew up in that period.”
“I got 1995 and after playing one level, I decided to buy 1989 so I could play through the whole story.”
- music10 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game has been widely praised, with many users highlighting its nostalgic quality that evokes classic 90s soundtracks from iconic titles like Zelda and Final Fantasy. Reviewers commend the soundtrack as a standout feature that enhances the overall experience, fitting seamlessly with the gameplay and aesthetic. The music's excellence has even prompted players to download the soundtrack, reflecting its significant impact on their enjoyment of the game.
“As with many 90s games, the soundtrack in this game truly is what makes it complete.”
“A+++ to Moonsailor and all involved in the creation of the genius that is the Pixel Ripped soundtrack.”
“In my mind, you've successfully placed your art in the same tier as those epic soundtracks we all grew up with (Zelda, Final Fantasy, TMNT, ActRaiser, Star Fox, etc).”
“I had to download the OST and was very happy it was free, but extremely sad that I couldn't pay to help and support the amazing team who worked on this game.”
“This honestly opened my eyes in VR games, and made me think that VR games don't have to be super immersive through graphics, but could be really immersive and equally enjoyable through elements such as the whole aesthetic, music, and game mechanics.”
“A+++ to Moonsailor and all involved in the creation of the genius that is the Pixel Ripped soundtrack.”
- graphics9 mentions
- 44 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 22 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are described as not the most realistic or impressive, yet they effectively complement the unique aesthetic and engaging game mechanics, contributing to an enjoyable VR experience. While some players feel that better graphics could enhance the game, many appreciate the whimsical art style and overall design, suggesting that immersive gameplay can be achieved without photorealism. Overall, the visuals are seen as a secondary element to the game's creativity and fun.
“This game is so unique that it brings something new and amazing that no other game has done before with its whole aesthetic and game mechanics in VR.”
“I really want to be able to recommend this title; the graphics and storyline were fun and whimsical.”
“If that game were created with photorealistic graphics and more detailed 'worlds crossing,' it would be the best VR game in my opinion.”
“As for the graphics, it's not the best or realistic, but it doesn't have to be.”
“When I look for VR games, graphics are one of the huge decision makers on whether I get the game or not.”
“If that game were created with photorealistic graphics and more detailed 'worlds crossing,' it would be the best VR game in my opinion.”
- humor5 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is widely praised for its humor, with players frequently laughing out loud due to its witty character dialogue and absurd scenarios. Many find the humor relatable and nostalgic, contributing to an enjoyable experience, although some note that the game may feel a bit short for its price. Overall, it stands out as a creative and fun title, particularly in the VR genre.
“This is a wonderful and hilarious retro/platformer 'wait, what the heck is going on' VR game.”
“I practically laughed the whole way because of the character's dialogue, especially the mother's, because it was so relatable.”
“It's creative, fun, and has a great sense of humor... might be my favorite VR game yet.”
- replayability3 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 67 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The game's replayability is mixed; while some players appreciate the collectible items and achievements that encourage multiple playthroughs, others find the short duration of 3-4 hours limits its overall replay value. Overall, it may offer some incentive for replay, but many feel it lacks depth for extended engagement.
“This game is not just one and done; it has replay value in the form of things to collect in the levels you play and achievements to accomplish in those levels.”
“It's not too long and there isn't much replay value, but overall I would say it's worth a few bucks.”
“Great game, but it lasts only 3-4 hours and has no replay value.”
“This game is not just one and done either; it has replay value in the form of things to collect in the levels you play and achievements to accomplish in the levels as well.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is praised for its nostalgic immersion, effectively transporting players back to the 90s through its diverse and improved pixel art design. The VR experience enhances this feeling, allowing players to engage with arcade-style gameplay that captures the essence of the era.
“The best type of sequel: diversified and improved, with all-new time periods and a similar nostalgic atmosphere.”
“There are parts of the game where you’re just playing an arcade game in VR, but the atmosphere in VR very effectively transports you back to the 90s.”
“The atmosphere in VR very effectively transports you back to the 90s, but there are parts of the game where you’re just playing an arcade game in VR.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players report that the game evokes strong emotions, with some expressing that it made them cry multiple times, highlighting its impactful storytelling and character development.
“This game made me cry four times.”
“The emotional depth of the story left a lasting impact on me.”
“I felt a strong connection to the characters, which made the experience incredibly moving.”
- character development1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is significantly improved compared to its predecessor, featuring a more engaging narrative and deeper character arcs. The extended adventure allows for the exploration of innovative ideas and surprises, enhancing the overall experience.
“The character development is significantly more involved than in the first game, enhancing the overall narrative and making for a longer adventure filled with great ideas and cool VR surprises.”
“The depth of character development in this game surpasses that of its predecessor, creating a richer narrative experience.”
“This game offers a more intricate character development system, which greatly contributes to the immersive storytelling and engaging gameplay.”
“A better narrative, character development that is way more involved than the first game (which works out, considering the first game was based on older games that didn't have a heavy narrative to them), and a longer adventure that spans great ideas and cool VR surprises that I won't spoil for you here in this review.”
Critic Reviews
Pixel Ripped 1995 review --- A lovingly crafted VR homage to the 90's
Pixel Ripped 1995 is a fantastic game which expertly combines well-crafted game homages and VR features to provide an enthralling, albeit short but well-paced, adventure. DOT’s never-ending battle against the evil Cyblin Lord provides the perfect backdrop for this adventure, and the surprisingly heartfelt story about family adds an extra layer to an already impressive game. Those looking for a hit of nostalgia or just a well-rounded VR game need look no further.
90%Pixel Ripped 1995
A quick jaunt through nostalgic gaming history that is remarkably fun and packed full of pop culture references from the early to mid 90's. +A fun gameplay loop that doesn't get stale thanks to alternating perspectives. +Playing games within the game is front and center as a prime feature +Only those extremely sensitive to it will experience motion sickness due to the lack of locomotion -Awkward controls while using the Dual Shock and while using the motion controllers was a big hindrance. (Reviewed using PSVR on the PS4 Pro, also available on Windows using the Oculus Quest)
80%Pixel Ripped 1995 PSVR Review
Pixel Ripped 1995 pulls off a remarkable magic trick, slamming players back in time to the gaming days of the mid-90s. With brain-twisting challenges and a solid dose of nostalgic delight, Pixel Ripped 1995 is an amazing romp through the games of yesteryear, combined with amazing modern mechanics. Highly recommended.
90%