Trans Neuronica
- October 22, 2024
- Evidently Cube
- 2h median play time
Link nodes; Untangle paths; Rebuild memory; Assess humans; A puzzle where logic goes hand in hand with surgical precision and humans ask artificial intelligence for help. But only if you trust them enough.
Reviews
- The game features a unique and engaging twist on traditional pathing puzzles, with mechanics that evolve and challenge players as they progress.
- The retro-style pixel art and electronica soundtrack create a captivating cyberpunk atmosphere that enhances the overall experience.
- Players appreciate the tight controls and the ability to experiment with puzzle solutions, making for a rewarding and enjoyable gameplay experience.
- The game currently lacks sufficient content, with many levels feeling underdeveloped and leaving players wanting more puzzles to solve.
- Timed boss levels can be frustrating, and while they can be disabled, they detract from the otherwise relaxed puzzle-solving experience.
- The story elements are considered unnecessary and confusing, with many players feeling that the focus should remain on the puzzles rather than the narrative.
- gameplay15 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 47 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by engaging pathing puzzles that gradually introduce new mechanics, allowing for experimentation and increasing complexity. While the core mechanics are simple, they evolve into intricate challenges, though some players find certain elements, like timed levels, detract from the overall experience. Overall, the game offers a variety of puzzles and a fresh take on classic gameplay, but it is still in early development with limited content.
“If you like pathing puzzles with advanced mechanics, check it out!”
“Introduction of new mechanics comes at a good pace, and you have the freedom to experiment.”
“A unique and interesting puzzle; at first, everything is very easy and simple, but gradually new mechanics are added and the levels become more and more difficult.”
“The last mechanic introduced was only used in one puzzle!”
“Not only were their mechanics hazy, it was also unclear if I needed to succeed at them to unlock more content.”
“Destroying lines that you've placed is such a core part of the gameplay and yet it feels so tedious to do.”
- story12 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The story in the game is described as an intriguing but incomplete narrative that connects the levels, with players noting that it feels like a prologue to a larger tale yet to unfold. While the story is not the main focus, it is well-written and engaging, though many reviewers express that it lacks clarity and depth at this stage, suggesting that future updates may expand on the narrative. Overall, the story enhances the experience without overshadowing the well-crafted puzzles, but players are eager for more content to fully understand the overarching plot.
“I appreciate the uncharacteristic story that binds the levels together.”
“The mystery of the story feels like there's something much larger going on, and this is in fact a small part of a much larger game or possibly a series of games.”
“Though the story doesn't take center stage in this early version of the game, the narrative that is present so far seems engaging and well-written, while avoiding overstaying its welcome.”
“However, as of July 8th, 2024, the game is still far from finished with its story, and I suspect there will be many upcoming puzzle stages to come.”
“Kudos to the developer for integrating a story into this, but I'm afraid I must agree with other comments here that it's neither necessary nor really understandable what is actually going on. It's just a small part of the game and does not distract from the puzzles, which are really well done.”
“I do wish the Steam page were slightly clearer about the state of early access; the statement that the game currently 'delivers the full storyline', for instance, seems incorrect, as what is currently here feels more like a prologue.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's graphics feature a retro, minimalist pixel art style that complements its cyberpunk aesthetics, receiving praise for its beauty and design. While the visuals are generally well-received, some players feel that the background graphics could be improved, although options to disable animations are appreciated. Overall, the art and aesthetics contribute significantly to the game's appeal, alongside a standout soundtrack.
“The retro style, minimalist pixel art is great and fits the cyberpunk aesthetics.”
“Beautiful graphics and design.”
“I will add that graphically it is very pleasant, and it also features some options to disable animations for those who find the backgrounds distracting.”
- music6 mentions
- 83 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is widely praised for its quality and contribution to the overall atmosphere, with many describing it as a standout feature. However, some players noted that the limited variety of tracks per stage can become repetitive, especially during challenging sections. Overall, the soundtrack enhances the game's appeal, complementing its great mechanics and aesthetics.
“The soundtrack is great too!”
“A neat, short puzzle game with a wonderful soundtrack and atmosphere.”
“The game's aesthetics are also outstanding, with the soundtrack being a particular highlight.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is praised for its captivating soundtrack, which enhances the overall experience, contributing to a delightful and engaging environment for players.
“A neat, short puzzle game with a wonderful soundtrack and atmosphere.”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game tedious, as the core mechanic of destroying placed lines becomes a repetitive chore rather than an engaging challenge.
“Destroying lines that you've placed is such a core part of the gameplay, and yet it feels so tedious to do.”
“The grinding in this game is mind-numbing and takes away from the overall enjoyment.”
“I find myself repeating the same tasks over and over, which makes the game feel more like a chore than fun.”