Polyball
- December 1, 2017
- Studio Monolith
Get on Steam"Polyball is a physics-based platformer game with local multi-player for up to 2 players. Offering single-player, co-op, and PvP modes, players can compete on global leaderboards or against friends in split-screen. With over 60 levels and DLC plans, it's a modern take on classic ball rolling games, offering both casual and competitive gameplay."
Mac OS
PC
Windows
Linux
Reviews
- The game features a fun and challenging multiplayer mode that enhances the overall experience.
- The level design is varied and creative, providing a mix of speed and precision platforming that keeps players engaged.
- The game has a charming aesthetic with solid graphics and enjoyable sound design, making it visually appealing.
- The controls can feel clunky and unresponsive, leading to frustration during precision platforming sections.
- There are significant performance issues and bugs, particularly in multiplayer, which can detract from the gameplay experience.
- The lack of clear objectives and direction in levels can make exploration feel aimless and unfulfilling.
- graphics23 mentions
- 48 % positive mentions
- 39 % neutral mentions
- 13 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are characterized by a unique low-poly art style that is both clean and aesthetically pleasing, with notable features like polygonal water reflections and vibrant level elements. While some users appreciate the visuals and customization options, others criticize the game's performance and lack of polish, suggesting that it could benefit from further refinement. Overall, the graphics are generally well-received, though opinions vary on their execution and technical efficiency.
“The graphics are simple yet manage to create a unique art style (i.e., water reflections are polygonal in a good way like the Tesla truck).”
“The first thing you'll notice about Polyball are the visuals, which are amazing.”
“The game is beautifully minimalist in design, controls, and visuals.”
“As far as the game goes, the graphics seem like I could use the 'fill with color' tool from Paint and also find unacceptable the consumption/efficiency rate (120-130 watt/h) for what it offers.”
“Multiplayer not working, graphic layer bugs and bad menu interactivity.”
“And the graphic settings are very lacking; my computer may not be the best, but it can play GTA V fairly well.”
- gameplay19 mentions
- 32 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 16 % negative mentions
Gameplay reviews highlight a mix of experiences, with some praising the smooth mechanics, progressive difficulty, and rewarding challenges, while others criticize the steep learning curve, awkward platforming, and bugs in multiplayer modes. Many players appreciate the solid level design and engaging mechanics, though some feel the content is limited and the scoring system confusing. Overall, the gameplay is seen as enjoyable but can be hindered by technical issues and a lack of depth in certain areas.
“Progressive difficulty and rewarding gameplay.”
“Smooth gameplay, nice level design, decent amount of levels and global leaderboards.”
“The gameplay is now silky smooth and really fun, and now I can actually recommend this game because of it!”
“You either learn the mechanics or you will be locked out of the following zones (medals required).”
“I'm telling you this game is way harder than it needs to be, purely because of the speed and jumping mechanics.”
“The reason I bought this game was because of the splitscreen co-op gameplay, but it's filled with bugs and I can't even play it.”
- optimization10 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 30 % neutral mentions
- 30 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's optimization has received mixed reviews; while some players report excellent out-of-the-box performance, others experience performance issues even on high-end systems. There is a general hope for future improvements, and players appreciate the developers' responsiveness to feedback regarding optimization efforts.
“I needed nothing; the game runs out of the box with superb performance.”
“Tldr: the game is a lot better optimized and the developers are really awesome.”
“The game starts and the 'controller recommended' shows up: don't be fooled by that, the entire motion is optimized for mouse reactions.”
“Nonetheless, a bit of polishing and optimization is definitely needed as my powerful PC that handles games like Witcher 3 almost all maxed out sometimes struggles with this, but I have faith in the development.”
“I would like to see more levels in the easy-to-medium category that allow for a focus on optimization, rather than not dying.”
- music9 mentions
- 56 % positive mentions
- 11 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally well-received, with standout tracks like the menu and space themes being particularly praised. While the soundtrack is limited, it is described as high-quality and complements the game's art style effectively. Overall, the music contributes positively to the game's atmosphere, making it a noteworthy aspect for players.
“Art style, soundtrack amazing.”
“Erm... the music is alright.”
“The music alone is probably worth the price of the full game.”
“The music—though there isn't a lot of it—is also very well done.”
- stability2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game's online multiplayer experience is reported to be very buggy, while the local multiplayer mode has some glitches that do not significantly detract from the overall gameplay.
“Very buggy online multiplayer experience.”
“The local multiplayer mode had a few glitches; however, they didn't really take away from the gameplay.”
- story2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The story mode is well-structured, featuring playlists for offline play that guide players through the narrative. Additionally, the inclusion of a quick restart button enhances the experience by allowing for repeated attempts to achieve optimal outcomes.
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the gradual progression in grinding mechanics, likening it to games like bhop and Trackmania, where each small improvement feels rewarding. However, some levels can become tedious as they transition from easy to significantly challenging, potentially testing players' patience.
“These levels progress from easy/beginner to some considerably difficult maps towards the later levels, with some crossing the line into 'tedious'.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
While the reviewer expresses enthusiasm for the game's potential and overall enjoyment, they note technical issues with the slider and menu functionality that detract from the experience. The emotional impact of the game is not explicitly mentioned, suggesting that the focus is more on gameplay mechanics than emotional engagement.
- replayability1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Users express uncertainty about the game's replayability, suggesting that it may not be clearly defined or significant.
“The game offers a wealth of choices that make each playthrough feel unique and engaging.”
“With multiple endings and diverse character paths, I find myself coming back for more every time.”
“The random events and procedural generation keep the gameplay fresh, ensuring I never get bored.”
“I guess that counts as replay value?”
“The game lacks enough variety to make me want to play it again.”
“Once you've completed the main story, there's little incentive to return.”
