Title_Pending
- February 27, 2021
- DEVBEEF
- 4h median play time
Get on Steam
Get on itch.io Store"Title\_Pending" is a single-player comedy simulation game where you become a playtester for JMC Gaming Enterprises' latest work-in-progress game. Explore the liminal spaces of this unfinished video game to unravel a mysterious story, all while experiencing hilarious moments and potential bugs, as described by the game's lead developer, Matthew Stanton. This story-based exploration and adventure game promises an intriguing, humorous experience.
PC
Windows
Linux
Reviews
- The game features polished low-poly graphics and a unique, engaging story that keeps players intrigued.
- The humor is well-executed, providing a fun and entertaining experience reminiscent of The Stanley Parable.
- Despite its short length, the game is packed with secrets and easter eggs, encouraging replayability and exploration.
- The game is relatively short, taking only about 2-3 hours to complete, which may leave some players wanting more content.
- Some players feel that the game lacks depth in its narrative compared to similar titles, making it feel somewhat linear.
- There are occasional bugs and crashes that can disrupt the gameplay experience, which may frustrate some players.
- story77 mentions
- 49 % positive mentions
- 47 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The game's story is widely praised for its humor, intriguing plot, and clever writing, drawing comparisons to titles like "The Stanley Parable." While some players found the narrative to be straightforward or predictable, many appreciated the depth and replay value offered through hidden secrets and multiple endings. Overall, the storytelling is considered a standout feature, contributing significantly to the game's charm and enjoyment.
“The story feels like there’s still more to uncover, which is actually a great thing because it draws you deeper into the character you play as.”
“This is by far one of the best story-driven games I have ever played. The soundtrack is on point, the dialogue is witty and doesn't fall into the Marvel one-liners trap, the story is enjoyable, and the gameplay was fun.”
“The story is well thought out and it always has some surprises, and I was impressed with how well the visuals looked and complemented its art style.”
“This game has no story.”
“The game lore is rooted in an issue that should be horrifying and fear-inducing, but it presents it in a way that makes me shrug my shoulders at something that I would otherwise find deeply concerning. I also feel no empathy for the people affected by this point in the story.”
“I wasn't really shocked or surprised when [spoiler] the game flashed my username on screen, or pretended to crash, [/spoiler] because I've seen that before, and the story/characters hadn't pulled me in enough to make me really care.”
- humor38 mentions
- 97 % positive mentions
- -5 % neutral mentions
- 8 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is widely praised for its cleverness and wit, often drawing comparisons to "The Stanley Parable" while maintaining its own unique charm. Players appreciate the mix of light-hearted and dark humor, as well as the engaging narrative that keeps the experience enjoyable. Overall, the game is described as funny, with memorable moments and a strong emphasis on clever writing and fourth-wall-breaking elements.
“The humor in it is amazing, and the story is very intriguing.”
“The humor was on point, and when people compare it to Stanley Parable, they are absolutely correct; however, I feel this game is actually better.”
“The narrative is smart, witty, and funny.”
“I'm not sure if the callbacks to Source engine games are supposed to be funny, considering many game developers still seem hung up on them, or if they themselves are just stuck on 10 to 16-year-old media.”
“The humor feels outdated and relies too heavily on references that only a niche audience would appreciate.”
“I found the jokes to be forced and lacking originality, making it hard to connect with the humor.”
- graphics22 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 64 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The graphics in the game receive mixed reviews, with some praising the charming art style and well-executed visuals, while others find certain areas bland, particularly the office settings. Overall, the graphics are described as a blend of low-poly aesthetics and detailed environments that complement the game's humor and story, resulting in a visually appealing experience.
“It's got great visuals and environments, music is nice, and it has a very nice bit of comedy thrown into the mix.”
“The story is well thought out and it always has some surprises, and I was impressed with how well the visuals looked and complemented its art style.”
“The gameplay is truly at its finest; the graphics are pristine, detailed, and absolutely beautiful.”
“The graphics were a mix of bland office graphics with pretty cool looking areas outside the office.”
“The graphics here are pretty well done.”
“Low poly graphics.”
- gameplay17 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by a repetitive exploration of the same environment, akin to "The Stanley Parable," with simple yet effective mechanics that allow for interaction and discovery of new outcomes. While some players appreciate the minimal UI and engaging narrative, others note the gameplay lacks depth and innovation, though it is complemented by a charming story and enjoyable sound design. Overall, it offers a fun experience, particularly for fans of narrative-driven games, despite its brevity and simplicity.
“This is by far one of the best story-driven games I have ever played. The soundtrack is on point, the dialogue is witty and doesn't fall into the Marvel one-liners trap, the story is enjoyable, and the gameplay was fun.”
“The gameplay is one of my favorite things in this game; you walk freely in the rooms, interact with objects, and it makes me feel free to do whatever I want in this game.”
“The gameplay is very similar to The Stanley Parable in that you explore the same level over and over again, looking for new outcomes.”
“If you're into narrative gameplay, wait for a big sale or pass on this game entirely.”
“They share a lot of the same goofs and silliness, as well as a lack of... well... gameplay.”
- music16 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 31 % neutral mentions
- 19 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, with many users praising the soundtrack as "fire" and "incredible." Reviewers highlight its ability to enhance the overall experience, complementing the game's charming visuals and engaging story. The credits song, in particular, stands out as a favorite, leading some players to recommend purchasing the soundtrack.
“Would highly recommend, couldn't get enough of the soundtrack; it was fire!”
“This is a really charming little title, with great visuals and even better music.”
“And holy fluff, the music is a banger!”
“Play it for the song that plays over the credits.”
“And holy fluff the music is a banger!”
“It's easily worth twice as much as you will pay for it (if you can appreciate it), so buy the soundtrack also.”
- replayability4 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
Players highlight the game's high replayability, noting that it offers infinite replay value due to numerous hidden secrets that encourage exploration even after completing the main story.
“The game is infinitely replayable.”
“What's also nice is that all the hidden secrets give the game a lot of replay value, even after you finish the main story.”
- grinding3 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game to be less tedious than in similar titles, such as The Stanley Parable, but some still consider it to be boring or annoying, particularly when it involves meta humor. Overall, opinions on grinding vary, with some appreciating its integration while others find it a chore.
“Grinding is needed.”
“You find meta humor tedious, boring, and annoying.”
- emotional3 mentions
- 67 % positive mentions
- -67 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players find the game emotionally impactful, often experiencing nostalgia and moments of genuine sadness, akin to their feelings while playing "Stanley." The combination of a humorous narrative and cooperative gameplay enhances the emotional depth, leading to a memorable experience that resonates with players.
“Until this game came along and made me cry with nostalgia, while also using different tropes, its own story, and a much more cooperative approach.”
“It'll replace your life; I cried a bit.”
“The emotional moments felt forced and didn't resonate with me.”
“I expected to feel more connected to the characters, but I found myself indifferent.”
- optimization2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's optimization is generally well-received, with users noting perfect performance and a unique approach to humor that occasionally breaks the fourth wall. Overall, it scores a solid 7/10 in terms of graphics quality, art style, animations, and user interface.
“The performance was perfect, and at times a little worrying with the whole 4th wall jokes.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is highly praised for its depth, enriched by numerous hidden details that enhance the overall experience.
“Very good game with mountains of hidden details that expand the atmosphere.”
“The atmosphere is incredibly immersive, making you feel like you're truly part of the world.”
“Every sound and visual element contributes to a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that lingers long after playing.”
