The Little Ball That Could
- September 12, 2017
- NaissusWorks
In "The Little Ball That Could," players control a rolling ball navigating through challenging maze-like environments, using physics-based puzzles and quick reflexes to overcome obstacles and reach the goal. Featuring a soothing soundtrack and minimalistic art style, this game provides a relaxing yet engaging experience for players of all ages. With 60 levels spread across four distinct worlds, there's a wealth of content to explore and enjoy.
Reviews
- The game offers a relaxing and enjoyable experience with a chill vibe and good graphics.
- It features a large number of levels (120) with varied challenges and collectibles, providing good replay value.
- The controls are generally tight and responsive, allowing for a satisfying gameplay experience despite some minor issues.
- The level design is often criticized for being poor, with many levels lacking clear themes and requiring multiple playthroughs to collect all items.
- The fixed camera angle and slippery controls can lead to frustrating gameplay, making it difficult to navigate levels accurately.
- There are some minor bugs and design flaws, such as the inability to turn off specific sound effects and unclear instructions for certain abilities.
- gameplay17 mentions
- 18 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The gameplay is criticized for its repetitive mechanics and lack of cohesive level design, leading to a feeling of stagnation and minimal exploration. While the introduction of new mechanics is gradual and the controls are responsive, the overall experience is marred by "micro-levels" that offer limited challenges. However, some players appreciate the balance of relaxation and challenge, along with engaging stage layouts and replay value.
“There are five worlds, each introducing a new environmental mechanic or hazard, with general difficulty and level length increasing as you progress.”
“The controls are just touchy enough to remind you of the momentum mechanics without feeling unresponsive.”
“[Solid marble madness gameplay that manages to be both relaxing and challenging, brilliant stage layouts and music, loads of replay value.]”
“Every level is just an endless mix of the same few mechanics thrown together awkwardly with no mind paid to how they fit together in the level, or even with each other.”
“The big issue was they tended toward 'micro-levels' (which is a mechanic I generally dislike in any game). There was no feeling of exploration or 'labyrinth,' just 1 or 2 obvious challenges per level.”
“They introduce new gizmos/mechanics a bit too slowly, so the content ends up feeling a bit stretched.”
- graphics14 mentions
- 36 % positive mentions
- 43 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game are generally praised for their clean, modern aesthetic and pleasing visuals, reminiscent of classic titles like Marble Madness with a contemporary twist. While the visuals are described as extraordinary and engaging, some reviewers noted a lack of environmental variety and suggested the addition of more gameplay modes to enhance the experience. Overall, the graphics contribute positively to the game's exploration and puzzle-solving elements.
“The graphics are extraordinary, the control of the game is excellent, the music is mystical.”
“Unity is ubiquitous these days, but tlbtc has a sheen to it, a clean aesthetic that is pleasing to view.”
“Tlbtc has a clean, modern UI and a wonderfully simple art style.”
“The visuals lack environmental variety.”
“The graphics are sufficient but not impressive.”
“The graphics are ordinary and do not stand out.”
- music9 mentions
- 56 % positive mentions
- 22 % neutral mentions
- 22 % negative mentions
The music in the game is generally described as pleasant and mystical, enhancing the overall experience, though some users note that the limited number of tracks can lead to repetitiveness over time. The soundtrack, featuring piano and violin elements, complements the game's extraordinary graphics and solid sound effects, contributing to a relaxing yet engaging atmosphere.
“The graphics are extraordinary, the control of the game is excellent, and the music is mystical.”
“That is a huge plus, as you listen to very pleasant music.”
“The OST is pleasant, albeit repetitive after a while due to a limited number of tracks, and the sound effects are solid.”
“Oh, and I guess there's a story and some weird piano/violin music.”
- replayability3 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
Reviewers highlight the game's strong replayability due to its engaging presentation, diverse and well-designed levels, and a gradual increase in difficulty. The inclusion of multiple goals within each level further enhances replay value, making the gameplay both relaxing and challenging. Overall, players appreciate the combination of brilliant stage layouts and music that contribute to a compelling replay experience.
“Wonderful presentation, interesting and varied levels, well-paced increases in difficulty, and multiple goals in each level to increase replayability.”
“Solid marble madness gameplay that manages to be both relaxing and challenging, brilliant stage layouts and music, loads of replay value.”
- stability2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The game demonstrates strong stability, with only minor bugs and glitches reported, none of which significantly impact gameplay.
- story2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The story is mentioned but seems to be overshadowed by the game's music, which features an unusual combination of piano and violin. Overall, the narrative appears to be secondary or not particularly engaging for players.
“Oh, and I guess there's a story and some weird piano/violin music.”