Side Scape
- January 27, 2023
- MathanGames
Get on Steam
Get on itch.io Store"Side Scape" is a Platformer/Dungeon Crawler hybrid where players control two characters, Captain Grisham and Sir Knight, with unique abilities and perspectives. The game features switching between a platformer and top-down character, puzzle gameplay, and an original soundtrack. With a demo offering up to the first dungeon's completion, the full version includes 4-5 hours of gameplay, various items, and was created by a dedicated team of two. Buy the full version on Steam today! .
PC
Steam Deck
Windows
Xbox
Reviews
- Unique and creative blend of 2D platforming and top-down adventure mechanics, providing engaging puzzles and gameplay.
- Solid execution with responsive controls, enjoyable exploration, and a fun narrative that incorporates meta-humor.
- Short but fulfilling playtime that respects the player's time, making it a great choice for fans of retro-style games.
- Lack of a detailed map and vague hints can lead to confusion and aimless wandering during gameplay.
- Graphics and sound design are simplistic and may feel amateurish, detracting from the overall experience.
- Some boss fights can be frustratingly difficult, especially early in the game when players have limited abilities.
- gameplay18 mentions
- 44 % positive mentions
- 39 % neutral mentions
- 17 % negative mentions
The gameplay of "side scape" is praised for its innovative mechanic that allows players to seamlessly switch between 2D platforming and top-down navigation, creating a unique and engaging experience. While the execution can feel a bit clumsy at times, the game features tight controls, challenging puzzles, and retro-inspired elements that enhance its overall fun factor. Players appreciate the creative use of mechanics and the integration of both vertical and horizontal gameplay, making for a comprehensive and challenging adventure.
“Tight controls and unique gameplay.”
“This game has all of the elements that make retro gaming so much fun, it has very fully integrated puzzles that are not like the dumbed down ones that you will find in modern games, as well as bosses that are scaled to be a challenge with the almost bullet hell-esque gameplay.”
“This game has all of the elements that make retro gaming so much fun; it has very fully integrated puzzles that are not like the dumbed down ones that you will find in modern games, as well as bosses that are scaled to be a challenge with the almost bullet hell-esque gameplay.”
“All of this while at the same time incorporating both vertical gameplay and horizontal gameplay to make puzzles even more comprehensive and challenging.”
“The game mechanics are unique and inventive, as you explore rooms switching between side-scrolling platforming and top-down navigation (within the same room!).”
- music12 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- 58 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally described as solid and well-crafted, effectively matching the game's environment and pace, though it lacks variety. Some reviewers noted that while the soundtrack is serviceable, there are instances of poor sound effects and primitive sprites. Overall, the music contributes positively to the experience, despite some criticisms.
“I can also tell that there was a lot of thought that went into the soundtrack to match the environment and the speed at which the game is going.”
“Don't get fooled by the very old-school graphics and soundtrack: Side Scape is a really clever game that not only mixes top-down combat and exploration a la NES Legend of Zelda with platforming action, but it also has several interesting puzzles based on both switching the protagonists at the appropriate moments and using weapons and items according to the environmental clues.”
“The music in the background is also well made, even if there isn't much variety.”
“The art and music are... well, serviceable, I guess, and the plot is fairly standard, if not a little meta.”
“Namely that, the map is bad, the music is often bad, sprites can be really primitive, some sound effects are bad.”
- story12 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 42 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The story features two heroes from different dimensions who must work together to resolve their merged reality, effectively utilizing a meta-narrative while maintaining a light tone. While the plot is described as fairly standard, it is enriched by engaging dialogue, thought-provoking puzzles, and an intriguing storyline, making it a solid foundation for potential expansion. Overall, the narrative is well-received, contributing positively to the game's experience.
“Storywise, you play two heroes from different dimensions merged together in their quest to undo this: it really taps into meta-narrative, but keeps its light tone and is solid throughout.”
“It has a lot of engaging dialogue and story elements, and the combat is fun to play.”
“It has thought-provoking puzzles and an intriguing storyline.”
“The art and music are... well, serviceable, I guess, and the plot is fairly standard, if not a little meta.”
- graphics8 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The graphics of "Side Scape" are described as simplistic and reminiscent of old-school art styles, evoking a DIY aesthetic that some players find charming. While not visually sophisticated, the graphics effectively support the game's clever mechanics and genre-blending gameplay, proving that engaging design can transcend high-end visuals.
“While the graphics are pretty simplistic, they do their job well.”
“Don't get fooled by the very old-school graphics and soundtrack: Side Scape is a really clever game that not only mixes top-down combat and exploration a la NES Legend of Zelda with platforming action, but it also has several interesting puzzles based on both switching the protagonists at the appropriate moments and using weapons and items according to the environmental clues.”
“I'm really surprised this genre-melding concept isn't more common in games. The only other one I can think of is the utterly fantastic Concursion, which also has in common with Side Scape a somewhat MS Paint and 'crunkulated' art style.”
- humor4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its exceptional sense of humor, likened to a blend of iconic characters Samus and Link, featuring funny and endearing dialogue. Reviewers appreciate the humor's integration with engaging dungeon design and unique character abilities, enhancing the overall experience.
“It has really good dungeon design, unique character abilities, interesting meta narratives, and funny yet endearing dialogue.”
“It is 100% as if Samus and Link had a baby, and the game approaches it with an amazing sense of humor.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find the game to be a heartwarming experience, emphasizing its wholesome nature and emotional resonance.
