subpar pool
- October 11, 2023
- grapefrukt
Subpar Pool is anything but subpar, featuring a whole lot of spectacular arcade pool fun and so much variety that you'll struggle to put it down.
Get on Steam
Get on itch.io Store"Subpar Pool" is a whimsical golf-pool hybrid game with procedurally generated levels. Players must pocket balls within a set number of shots while navigating through fantastically vibrant worlds. With the ability to combine cards for wacky and unexpected playthroughs, Subpar Pool offers a unique and tailored experience for every player's desired gameplay and skill level. Progress in the game by creating your own course with cards that unlock new challenges and experiences.
iPad
iPhone
Mac OS
Nintendo Switch
PC
Phone
Steam Deck
Windows
Android
Mobile Platform
PlayStation
Tablet
Xbox
Reviews
- The game is highly creative, addictive, and fun, offering a whimsical atmosphere with charming visuals and music.
- It features engaging gameplay mechanics that combine billiards and mini-golf, with a variety of modifiers and challenges that keep the experience fresh.
- Runs are short and can be easily picked up or put down, making it a great game for casual play or quick sessions.
- The game can become stale quickly, as players may unlock all content within a short time and be left with repetitive challenges.
- Some players find the sound design grating over time, and the UI can feel clunky and confusing, particularly with mouse controls.
- There is a desire for more content updates, including new types of balls and stages, to enhance the gameplay experience.
- gameplay12 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The gameplay of *subpar pool* is praised for its engaging base mechanics, enhanced by a variety of modifiers and stages that create a relaxing yet addictive experience. Players appreciate the unique blend of pool, golf, and roguelite elements, along with charming visuals and music, making it a perfect cozy game that encourages longer play sessions. The ability to mix challenge cards and different ball types adds depth and freshness to the gameplay, keeping players entertained and eager to explore.
“I wanted something to help me unwind at the end of the day, and the only problem is the gameplay is so engaging that I find myself playing longer sessions when I should be drifting off to sleep!”
“I'm glad to say Mr. Grapefrukt and his collaborators have done it again, combining pool, golf, and roguelite-esque gameplay with charming visuals and music to create an absurdly fun little time sink, much like Holedown, which I've played and replayed to completion on every platform it exists on.”
“I tried to stay unspoiled on the details of the game mechanics before going into it so I could experience everything totally fresh, and I've been delighted by mixing and matching challenge cards and the different ball types that impact how you play.”
- music4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is described as whimsical and charming, complementing the cute art and lively backgrounds that evoke nostalgic feelings reminiscent of childhood play mats and Cartoon Network aesthetics. Reviewers appreciate how the music enhances the overall experience, making the gameplay feel engaging and fun, similar to other titles like Holedown.
“I love the whimsical music, cute art, and lively backgrounds that feel reminiscent of those town road play mats you might've seen when you were younger. I get Cartoon Network vibes from it all.”
“I'm glad to say Mr. Grapefrukt and his collaborators have done it again, combining pool, golf, and roguelite-esque gameplay with charming visuals and music to create an absurdly fun little time sink, much like Holedown, which I've played and replayed to completion on every platform it exists on.”
- graphics4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's graphics are praised for their charming art style, which complements the engaging gameplay that blends elements of pool, golf, and roguelite mechanics. Reviewers appreciate the visual appeal, noting it enhances the overall fun and replayability of the experience.
“I'm glad to say Mr. Grapefrukt and his collaborators have done it again, combining pool, golf, and roguelite-esque gameplay with charming visuals and music to create an absurdly fun little time sink, much like Holedown, which I've played and replayed to completion on every platform it exists on.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of Subpar Pool is consistently described as fun, contributing to an enjoyable overall experience for players.
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find the humor in the game through unexpected and amusing moments that arise during gameplay, regardless of their skill level. The combination of challenging scenarios and lighthearted fun contributes to an enjoyable experience.
“Whether you're familiar with pool or you're new to the game, you'll likely surprise yourself with some of the dope, challenging, and downright funny stuff you can pull off in subpar pool. It's a great time!”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be tedious, with repetitive tasks leading to frustration, particularly highlighted by the initially charming sound design that becomes annoying over time.
“The sound design seemed cute at first but got quite grating as I was grinding for the last of the achievements.”
