There Is No Game: Jam Edition
- March 18, 2020
- Draw Me A Pixel
- 11h median play time
Get on Steam
Get on Apple Store"There Is No Game: Jam Edition" is a free Point&Click game that claims you haven't missed out on anything, as it doesn't exist. Despite having two different endings, the game ironically mocks itself with poor voice-acting and the assumption that you won't play it. By not having a game to play, you'll save time and avoid any disappointment.
iPad
iPhone
Mac OS
PC
Phone
Steam Deck
Windows
Android
Mobile Platform
Tablet
Reviews
- The game is very fun and enjoyable, with clever humor and a charming narrator.
- It's a short experience that can be completed quickly, making it perfect for a quick laugh.
- The game is free, which adds to its appeal and makes it worth trying out.
- The game is extremely short, which may leave some players wanting more content.
- There is a lack of replayability once the puzzles are solved and achievements are unlocked.
- Some players found the humor to be hit or miss, and the game may not appeal to everyone.
- humor365 mentions
- 99 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 1 % negative mentions
The humor in "There Is No Game: Jam Edition" is widely praised for its cleverness and creativity, with many players highlighting the witty narration and meta-commentary that break traditional gaming norms. While the game is short, lasting around 15-20 minutes, its lighthearted and self-aware humor leaves a lasting impression, making it an enjoyable experience for those who appreciate unconventional comedic styles. However, some players found the humor to be hit-or-miss, with a few expressing that it did not resonate with them.
“There is no game - a delightful twist on gaming that hilariously defies all expectations.”
“With clever puzzles and witty dialogue, it’ll leave you laughing and wondering, 'wait, is this a game?'”
“The game is filled with clever jokes, witty dialogue, and humorous meta-commentary that had me chuckling throughout my playthrough.”
“For a game that is nothing but humor, this game is quite unfunny.”
“Not funny; didn’t laugh.”
“Was this supposed to be funny?”
- story93 mentions
- 39 % positive mentions
- 56 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The story aspect of the game is generally well-received, with many users praising its humor, creativity, and engaging voiceovers. However, several reviews note that the narrative is relatively short, which may leave some players wanting more. Overall, the storytelling is described as entertaining and clever, contributing positively to the gaming experience.
“The storytelling is masterful, well, for a point and click game.”
“The plot is good and really unexpected, in a good way.”
“The voiceovers are legendary, the overarching storyline is magnificent, the non-gameplay is near-mythical, and the replayability is endless.”
“🔲 no story”
“☐ only gameplay, doesn't include a story.”
“But the plot is much simpler with cringy narration feeling like a Disneyland movie.”
- gameplay72 mentions
- 26 % positive mentions
- 69 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The gameplay aspect of the game is highly polarizing, with some players praising its unconventional mechanics and humor, while others criticize it for lacking substantial gameplay elements. Many reviews highlight a blend of amusing, lighthearted experiences with simple mechanics, but also note that the gameplay can feel repetitive or too short. Overall, the game seems to challenge traditional gameplay norms, offering a unique experience that may not appeal to everyone.
“The game's meta-humor and unconventional gameplay challenge traditional gaming norms, making it a refreshing experience.”
“With its clever humor, inventive gameplay, and charming presentation, it's a must-play for anyone looking for a lighthearted adventure that will leave them grinning from ear to ear.”
“It's refreshing to encounter a title that purposefully tries to defy traditional gameplay mechanics, and this approach injects an element of surprise and excitement into the overall experience.”
“Don't install this program, trust me, absolutely zero gameplay.”
“There is no game, there is no gameplay, there is no achievement, there is no review, and there is no fun.”
“Gameplay: 0/10 (still nothing)”
- graphics58 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 66 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are characterized by a charming pixel art style that enhances its playful tone and nostalgic feel, with many reviewers appreciating the minimalist and retro aesthetic. While some found the visuals adequate or lacking depth, others praised the polished execution and immersive animations that contribute to the overall experience. Overall, the graphics received mixed to positive feedback, with scores ranging from 6/10 to 10/10, depending on individual expectations and the game's nature as a "non-game."
“The minimalist art style complements the game's playful tone, while the animations and interactive elements add depth and immersion to the experience.”
“The pixel art style is nicely stylized and pleasant to look at, and the sound design really gives the feel that you are actually interacting with objects within the game world.”
“Dazzling 3D graphics, spectacular color, and new A/V cables.”
“Graphics were adequate.”
“A choice was made to use obsolete retro pixel 'art' as a substitute for contemporary PC graphics.”
“Do not look for graphical entertainment, or you will be disappointed!”
- stability24 mentions
- 4 % positive mentions
- 4 % neutral mentions
- 92 % negative mentions
The stability of the game is frequently criticized due to a significant number of glitches and technical issues, which range from minor bugs to game-breaking problems that render it unplayable for some users. While some players find enjoyment in the quirky nature of these glitches, the overall consensus indicates that the game's stability is a major drawback, detracting from the experience.
“There are no glitches.”
“It has an intolerable amount of glitches!”
“This game had too many glitches; it was unplayable...”
“After that, the game became unplayable from glitches.”
- music22 mentions
- 41 % positive mentions
- 45 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received positive feedback, with many users praising the soundtrack for its enjoyable and retro vibe, as well as its fittingness to the game's atmosphere. While some expressed disappointment in the game's content, they still appreciated the quality of the music, highlighting memorable ending tracks and overall fun audio experiences.
“Has an amazing ending soundtrack; also, there is some game.”
“The voice acting and the music is on point, and the puzzles are simply clever and fun.”
“Similarly to Celeste, it has nice music.”
“The sound and music were inoffensive.”
“Soundtrack - ok (pretty decent tune, like retro arcade vibe)”
“✅ no music 無配樂”
- replayability20 mentions
- 15 % positive mentions
- 70 % neutral mentions
- 15 % negative mentions
Overall, the game's replayability is generally considered limited, primarily due to its narrative-driven structure and fixed puzzles. While some players find value in achievements that encourage replay, many agree that once the initial experience is completed, the incentive to revisit the game diminishes significantly.
“This is a pretty decent game with some replayability due to its achievements.”
“Despite its shortcomings, 'There Is No Game' does manage to maintain a moderate level of replayability.”
“Even if you've already watched your favorite YouTube personality not play the non-game, the achievements add enough replay value that you can justify a download.”
“Barely any replayability though; puzzle games are ruined once you know them fully.”
“Limited replayability due to its narrative-driven nature and set puzzles.”
“Once the initial surprises have been unraveled, the replay value diminishes rapidly.”
- grinding14 mentions
- 7 % positive mentions
- 71 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
Players consistently express that the grinding aspect of the game is excessive, often requiring a significant time investment that feels tedious and repetitive. Many suggest that achieving 100% completion or farming for achievements demands an almost unrealistic amount of effort, leading to the sentiment that players would need "a second life" to fully engage with the grinding elements.
“A bit grindy... sometimes.”
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“One long, tedious grind.”
“100% game achievement farming... sorry, there is no game.”
- emotional7 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is noted for its profound emotional impact, with players reporting multiple instances of crying and a strong connection to the characters, despite its tongue-in-cheek tone. The narrative is described as an emotional rollercoaster, culminating in a heartbreakingly poetic ending that resonates deeply with players.
“This game made me cry.”
“I cried 5 times; it was insane.”
“A heavily-accented voice comes off as a character one can connect with; there's a certain emotional element involved I wouldn't have expected in a tongue-in-cheek game like this.”
- monetization5 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The monetization aspect of the game is praised for its absence of microtransactions, ads, and grind, allowing for a focus on enjoyable gameplay and humor. However, some users feel misled by the advertising, describing the experience more as an interactive advertisement than a traditional game. Overall, it is seen as a humorous promotional tool rather than a fully-fledged game.
“No microtransactions, no ads, no grind, just pure, interesting gameplay and humor.”
“No loot boxes, no microtransactions, no advertising. 10/10”
“Fake advertising; there is no actual game.”
“Glitches ruin the experience... it's the most fun I've had interacting with an advertisement because this was definitely not a game.”
“This free non-game was really funny and served as a good advertisement for the sequel.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is often praised for its immersive and engaging qualities, enhanced by striking graphics that contribute to the overall experience. Players appreciate how the environment complements the gameplay, creating a cohesive and captivating world that draws them in.
“The atmosphere is incredibly immersive, drawing you into the game's world with stunning visuals and sound design.”
“Every corner of the environment feels alive, creating a rich and captivating atmosphere that keeps you engaged.”
“The combination of haunting music and detailed landscapes creates an unforgettable atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.”
“The atmosphere feels flat and uninspired, lacking the depth needed to immerse players in the game world.”
“Despite the beautiful graphics, the overall atmosphere is dull and fails to evoke any real emotion or tension.”
“The game’s atmosphere is inconsistent, swinging from moments of potential to stretches of boredom that break immersion.”
- optimization1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's optimization is highly praised, with users rating it 9 out of 10 for performance and minimal bugs, indicating a smooth and stable gaming experience.
“The game's optimization is impressive, running smoothly even on lower-end hardware.”
“I experienced minimal bugs, and the performance is top-notch, earning a solid 9/10.”
“The developers have done a fantastic job optimizing the game, ensuring a seamless experience.”
