TETHER
- July 18, 2023
- kylebrickgames
"Tether" is a revolutionary platformer game with a single-player mode and an engaging plot. Players pilot a drone to explore a deserted space station, uncovering secrets and experiencing a rich, darkly humorous narrative. Featuring charming pixel art, original music, and simple but accessible controls, the game offers a unique and thrilling experience that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The game is entirely original, expertly crafted by one person, and promises a captivating journey from start to finish.
Reviews
- Charming pixel art and engaging writing that transitions well between different tones.
- Fun gameplay with unique mechanics and solid replayability, making it enjoyable for a short experience.
- Great value for the price, offering a captivating story and enjoyable interactions.
- Lack of WSAD movement and non-rebindable controls detract from the overall experience.
- The music, while good, does not reach the level of iconic soundtracks, which affects the story's impact.
- Some players found the character controls to be less satisfying, though not critically flawed.
- story12 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's story is praised for its captivating world-building and unique approach, with players enjoying the depth added through collectible logs and humorous dialogue. While some felt the music didn't elevate the narrative to its full potential, the overall storytelling is considered engaging and well-integrated into the gameplay. Despite its brevity, the story leaves a lasting impression, complemented by charming character design and edgy humor.
“It has some very nice world-building, and the story is captivating and well-tied together.”
“Offers some challenge and a simple but interesting story that is uncovered through logs as the game progresses.”
“I loved this game, it was a simple little platformer but it was unique in its approach to the gameplay, it also had a neat story to it as well.”
- music9 mentions
- 89 % positive mentions
- 11 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally well-received, with many praising its charm and ability to enhance the atmosphere of the scenes. However, some critics feel it falls short of being exceptional, comparing it unfavorably to iconic soundtracks like that of Undertale, and note that it is relatively short. Overall, while the music contributes positively to the experience, it leaves some players wanting more depth and length.
“I liked the art style a lot, and the OST is great and complements the scenes very well.”
“The music is also quite charming and really sets the mood for every moment in the game.”
“The game was very short but incredible, the design of the game was amazing and so was the music.”
- gameplay6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The gameplay is engaging and features unique mechanics, such as an oxygen management system that adds depth and challenge. Players appreciate the blend of simplicity and creativity in the platforming elements, along with a compelling story that enhances the overall experience.
“The gameplay is fun, with some unique mechanics and semi-challenging sections.”
“I loved this game; it was a simple little platformer but unique in its approach to gameplay, and it also had a neat story.”
- humor6 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is widely appreciated, with players finding it both hilarious and cleverly integrated into the exploration experience. The witty dialogue, such as the memorable line about missing hot dogs, adds depth to the story and enhances the overall enjoyment. The character design and edgy comedy further contribute to the game's charm, making it a delightful experience for those who appreciate indie humor.
“If you enjoy exploration just to see what kind of world another indie has created and what they find funny, I think you'll have a good time.”
“The game was very short but incredible. The design of the game was amazing and so was the music. I strongly suggest reading through all of the computers; they are both funny and add more to the story. 'I miss you almost as much as I miss hot dogs.' I also love the character design and the somewhat edgy comedy.”
- graphics2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The graphics are highly praised for their appealing art style, which is complemented effectively by a great original soundtrack that enhances the overall visual experience.
“I liked the art style a lot, and the OST is great and complements the scenes very well.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players initially perceived the oxygen mechanic as potentially tedious, but many found it to be an engaging aspect of gameplay that added depth and challenge, leading to moments of tension and strategic management.
- character development2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Character development in the game is enhanced through engaging design and humor, with players encouraged to explore in-game elements like computers that add depth to the story. While the game is short, its character design and edgy comedy leave a lasting impression.
“The game was very short but incredible. The design of the game was amazing, and so was the music. I strongly suggest reading through all of the computers; they are both funny and add depth to the story. I miss you almost as much as I miss hot dogs. I also love the character design and the somewhat edgy comedy.”