Pretend
- January 6, 2021
- whitesquare
- 33h median play time
Get on Steam"Pretend is a massively multiplayer arcade game for 2-1
PC
Windows
Linux
Reviews
- gameplay42 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 64 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The gameplay has received mixed reviews, with many praising its fun and entertaining elements, unique ideas, and engaging proximity chat features. However, some players criticize it for being derivative of other games like "Among Us," experiencing bugs, and encountering a toxic community. Overall, while the gameplay is seen as enjoyable and well-designed, it is marred by technical issues and negative player interactions.
“It received favorable reviews from critics on account of its fun and entertaining gameplay.”
“Such a beautiful and in-depth lore and the gameplay, such original and unique ideas that really set this game apart from any other.”
“The music, gameplay, and atmosphere all tie together to make the holy grail of all games.”
“Toxic community overflowing with idiots, and horrible gameplay.”
“Servers are buggy and barely existent, died randomly after teleporting, witnessed a dev abuse/swear at a player in Discord and ban them after said player provided negative gameplay feedback.”
“The original art style of the game accentuates the unique feel, a feeling that says, 'you have not played this game before.' How many times do you load up a new high-budget game only to realize that the characters, plot, and gameplay devices are just the same tried concepts that have existed for years?”
- graphics28 mentions
- 21 % positive mentions
- 68 % neutral mentions
- 11 % negative mentions
The game's graphics are characterized by a unique and appealing art style that sets it apart from competitors, although some users feel that it lacks depth and technical options. While the visuals are praised for their flair, there are criticisms regarding the overall quality and the need for updates, particularly in comparison to other titles. Overall, the graphics are seen as a highlight, but not enough to elevate the game beyond its perceived shortcomings.
“Honestly has a really nice art style going for it, and that's the extent of anything good that can be said about this game.”
“I think Pretend's art style makes it stand out from the competition and adds its own visual flair!”
“This game uses state-of-the-art graphics to deliver an amazing gaming experience mixed with active ray-tracing, and you've got a stunning looking game.”
“As for the graphics, sounds, and technical aspects of the game, I feel that not much else can be said other than looking at the trailers at the top of this page.”
“• No in-game options (no custom keybinds, no graphical options, nothing).”
“Currently this game has a similar art style and game system but it is going to change.”
- story22 mentions
- 18 % positive mentions
- 68 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The game's story is described as deeply immersive and emotionally impactful, with players feeling a strong connection to the narrative and its characters. While some find the linearity limiting, many appreciate how their choices influence the experience, culminating in a powerful conclusion that resonates long after the game ends. Overall, the storytelling is praised as groundbreaking and a significant highlight of the game.
“I remember crying when I finally beat the final boss, the culmination of hundreds of hours of in-depth story, many plotlines merging into one point, a point of singularity, a point where all that was meant was that one is, not that one does, or wants, but **is**.”
“Now, the lore of pretend is immaculate, ground-breaking storytelling here, folks!”
“The main concept for this game has never been envisioned before; what you get with this purchase is an action-packed, lag-free masterpiece that by the end of its gripping story will leave you in tears.”
“While the story itself is linear, the actions you take throughout the game make you feel like you made a difference.”
“Fans of large, open world games might be upset when a character they help doesn't show up later in the story to reward them with some inside knowledge or a brand new item, but that isn't the point this game is trying to drive.”
“☐ no story”
- humor22 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in this game is frequently highlighted as a major draw, with players finding it both hilarious and absurd, often comparing it to "Among Us." Despite its flaws and bugs, many reviewers note that it provides plenty of laughs, especially when played with friends, making for an entertaining experience overall. The game's comedic elements seem to resonate well, even if the gameplay itself is criticized.
“This game had me laughing in one scene and crying in the next.”
“Grab a friend or two, and you got a whole day to spend laughing and you'll enjoy yourself!”
“It's an interesting game similar to Among Us; it has voice chat, but the game is early access so a lot of bugs, but it's funny :D”
- music12 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its calming and immersive qualities, contributing significantly to the overall atmosphere and gameplay experience. However, some users noted concerns about the game's lag and the use of soundtracks from other titles, specifically mentioning similarities to "The Stanley Parable." Despite these issues, the music remains a highlight, enhancing players' enjoyment and relaxation during gameplay.
“I relaxed for 5 minutes to this music long enough to realize that I was going to be okay.”
“The music, gameplay, and atmosphere all tie together to make the holy grail of all games.”
“The music in the trailer is from the game Stanley Parable.”
“Sure it wouldn't load a game and send me back to the elevator with the annoying but very calming music.”
“That moment when you copy Among Us and steal soundtracks from The Stanley Parable!”
“The music in the trailer is from the game The Stanley Parable.”
- emotional8 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players have expressed that the game evokes strong emotional responses, often leading to tears and a profound sense of connection. The writing is praised as heartwarming and artistic, contributing to a feeling of being truly alive while playing. Overall, the game is recognized for its ability to resonate deeply with players on an emotional level.
“This game made me cry.”
“Through what can only be described as genius, heartwarming writing, I believe that this game not only succeeds as a video game, but as an art form.”
“Tears welled up in his eyes when he realized what exactly was at stake.”
- stability7 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's stability is described as decent but marred by occasional bugs and glitches, such as players restarting as ghosts and experiencing server issues. Users have reported random deaths and a lack of server reliability, alongside concerns about developer behavior in response to feedback.
“Servers are buggy and barely existent, died randomly after teleporting, witnessed a dev abuse/swear at a player in Discord and ban them after said player provided negative gameplay feedback.”
“Occasional glitches - like restarting a round as ghosts, having no tasks as the innocents.”
“It is a good game for 1.00 and there are some glitches too.”
- grinding6 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
Players consistently express that the grinding required in the game is excessively time-consuming, often likening it to needing a "second life" to manage the demands. This sentiment highlights a significant concern regarding the game's pacing and the amount of effort needed to progress.
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
- optimization4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The game is widely criticized for its poor optimization, with players noting that even low-spec systems struggle to run it smoothly, in stark contrast to other less demanding titles.
“The dev claims it's just poorly optimized, and I'm inclined to believe it.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is highly praised, with users noting that the music, gameplay, and overall ambiance seamlessly combine to create an exceptional gaming experience.
“The music, gameplay, and atmosphere all tie together to create the holy grail of all games.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The reviews indicate that the game's replayability is high, with players appreciating the variety of choices and outcomes that encourage multiple playthroughs. Many highlight the presence of different character paths and unlockable content, which adds to the overall experience and keeps players engaged. However, some note that certain elements may feel repetitive after several runs.
- monetization2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Reviews indicate a strong sentiment that the game's monetization strategy feels exploitative, with many perceiving it as a quick cash grab that lacks transparency and communication from the developers. This has led to skepticism about the game's long-term viability and potential improvements.
“While a lot of these negatives can be rectified, I'm not very optimistic about it considering the lack of communication and the fact this game seems to be a quick cash grab capitalizing on the recent surge in popularity of Among Us.”
