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UFO 50

UFO 50 is a celebration of retro gaming, full of wonderful modern ideas, sensational video games and a whole lot of content.
91%Game Brain Score
gameplay, graphics
grinding, stability
96% User Score Based on 9,318 reviews
Critic Score 83%Based on 7 reviews

Platforms

PCPCSDSteam DeckWinWindows
Buy Nowfrom $24.99
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About

"UFO 50" is a collection of 50 single and multiplayer games, encompassing a variety of genres with a nostalgic 8-bit aesthetic. The games, created by the developers of Spelunky, Downwell, and Catacomb Kids, are allavailable to play immediately and offer a range of experiences from small arcade-style games to larger open-world adventures. The games are presented as part of a shared alternate universe, with recurring characters and connections between titles.

Genres & Tags
Play Modes
UFO 50 screenshot
UFO 50 screenshot
UFO 50 screenshot
UFO 50 screenshot
UFO 50 screenshot
UFO 50 screenshot
UFO 50 screenshot
UFO 50 screenshot
UFO 50 screenshot
UFO 50 screenshot
UFO 50 screenshot
+2

96%
Audience ScoreBased on 9,325 reviews
gameplay252 positive mentions
grinding36 negative mentions
  • UFO 50 is an incredible value, offering 50 full games for the price of one, with many games being worth the price alone.
  • The collection features a wide variety of genres and gameplay styles, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
  • The nostalgic feel combined with modern game design elements creates a unique and engaging experience that captures the essence of retro gaming.
  • Some games can be frustratingly difficult, often requiring trial and error without clear instructions, which may deter some players.
  • Not every game in the collection resonates with all players, leading to a mixed experience where some may find several games unenjoyable.
  • The lack of quality-of-life features, such as manuals or save options in certain games, can make the experience feel dated and less accessible.
  • gameplay
    919 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The gameplay in "UFO 50" is a rich tapestry of innovative mechanics and nostalgic design, featuring 50 unique games that blend retro aesthetics with modern gameplay elements. Players appreciate the variety and depth, with many games offering clever twists on classic genres, though some may find the lack of tutorials and steep difficulty curve challenging. Overall, the collection is celebrated for its creativity, engaging mechanics, and the joy of discovery inherent in exploring each game's unique systems.

    • “Incredible in most regards; really good pixel art (not a rarity in modern 2D indie games); incredibly big and high quality soundtrack (an extreme rarity in any modern indie game!); gameplay that at once looks back and acknowledges many old types of games which have been left by the wayside, respecting and learning from old game design in a way that most modern indie games have no clue about, while at the same time also building on many game ideas, fleshing them out in new ways and always being interesting.”
    • “Phenomenal gameplay variety, most games are a fun combination of challenging and accessible.”
    • “Ufo 50 is an incredible collection that masterfully blends nostalgic 8-bit charm with fresh, modern gameplay.”
    • “Ufo 50 is very charming when it comes to its graphics, presentation, and music but completely falls flat in terms of gameplay in more than half of the works in here.”
    • “The controls were clunky as hell, the sprite work was very basic, and the mechanics were incredibly vague.”
    • “After trying half the games, I didn't find any interesting modern game design here worth sticking around for, rather quick knockoffs of well-known games with frustrating, clunky mechanics.”
  • graphics
    378 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The graphics of "UFO 50" are a nostalgic homage to the 8-bit era, expertly blending retro aesthetics with modern design sensibilities. Reviewers praise the charming pixel art, cohesive visual style, and attention to detail that evoke the feel of classic games while avoiding the hardware limitations of the past. While the graphics may not appeal to everyone, they are consistently well-executed and contribute to a rich, immersive experience that celebrates the spirit of retro gaming.

    • “The combination of old school aesthetic with modern day design sensibilities is not new at this point, but this may be the most masterful execution of it ever.”
    • “It's a masterclass of old meets new in both aesthetic and design, and a must-own for anyone with the slightest interest in retro gaming.”
    • “The graphics are beautiful and punchy, obviously influenced by the NES and MSX but allowing themselves to be more than that, creating games that just look... lush!”
    • “Of course the graphics are not what we've grown used to in the 21st century.”
    • “Everyone gushes about the classic 8-bit graphics, and overlooks the fact that almost all the games are dull.”
    • “I would have preferred a slightly less cartoony art style overall, and I would have liked to see a more straight-up platformer in the collection.”
  • music
    340 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The music in the game collection is widely praised for its impressive variety and quality, featuring a staggering 331 tracks that evoke nostalgia through a delightful chiptune aesthetic reminiscent of classic consoles. While some reviewers noted that certain games lacked sufficient music or had repetitive tracks, many highlighted standout pieces that enhance the overall experience, showcasing meticulous attention to detail in both composition and sound design. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a significant highlight, contributing to the charm and immersive atmosphere of the games.

    • “The music is awesome and quite varied.”
    • “The soundtrack has 331 tracks!!!”
    • “The music across the collection is delightfully chiptune, and would've fit quite well on a period-appropriate console.”
    • “I guess if I had one serious complaint, it'd be the music.”
    • “And the music is far too simple compared to even early NES chiptunes.”
    • “You move painfully slow and the only consistent 'music' in the whole game is a low, quiet, second-long hum when you change screens.”
  • story
    304 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The story aspect of "UFO 50" is a rich tapestry woven through its 50 games, each contributing to the overarching narrative of a fictional 1980s game development company, "UFOsoft." Players are encouraged to explore interconnected themes and secrets that reveal the evolution of game design, while individual titles offer their own unique stories, ranging from light-hearted adventures to deeper, more emotional narratives. The compilation is praised for its innovative storytelling approach, utilizing gameplay mechanics and hidden lore to create a compelling experience that resonates with retro gaming nostalgia.

    • “Ufo 50 is a masterclass in storytelling using video games as a medium and subject.”
    • “Like a good album, each game tells its own story, but also contributes to a greater whole.”
    • “But as a whole, ufo 50 weaves a story of a fake video game company - their highs, their lows, their iteration and technical advancements - that is fascinating to work your way through.”
    • “There is no story, no connection between the games.”
    • “Some of these games barely contain any story, if at all, as they just plonk you into the gameplay with your character and not much of a plot; others do a short-form introductory cutscene and ending, but that's mostly it.”
    • “If you're motivated in playing a game for at least any form of a story, you won't find anything too sophisticated given the nature of the era it emulates.”
  • replayability
    75 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game boasts exceptional replayability, with many users highlighting its vast variety and the ability to engage with each of the 50 standalone titles for hours. Players appreciate the unique challenges and alternate win conditions that encourage repeated play, making it a compelling choice for both casual and dedicated gamers. Overall, the combination of engaging gameplay, competitive elements, and a nostalgic design contributes to its reputation as a "forever game" with nearly infinite replay value.

    • “Outstanding idea for a game with almost-infinite replayability.”
    • “Each of the fifty is a bonafide, full-blown video game with hours of content (in some cases at least a dozen) and surprising replay value.”
    • “I'm expecting to keep playing for a while, maybe until I beat all the games, and then keep replaying this later on in life, because this has replayability through the roof.”
    • “Played all of these games, but none of the titles except 3 I tried were any fun. It felt like the main design principle was giving the player a hard time instead of having any semblance of fun. I played every game and I mean like... maybe 3 or 4 have any replay value, and it seems like the people who recommend this game only like it for nostalgia reasons or a 'retro feel'. The $25 price point here is insane.”
    • “If games were 8x longer it would be much better and represent the 'cartridge gaming' era better, but it feels more like 50 demos. Maybe if it had a built-in cheat engine feature or 'cartridge tilting' it would have more replayability despite the short length of the games while capturing the fun of the era.”
    • “Even if not all the games are to your liking, the games have plenty of replayability and challenge, so finding and playing the ones you personally enjoy will be enough to carry you through many hours of excitement with very little of the repetitive tasks you'd normally find from a game of this length.”
  • humor
    46 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The humor in "Waldorf's Journey" is widely praised, with players finding the game genuinely funny and filled with wacky, hilarious moments, especially in its multiplayer mode where players hurl walruses at each other. Many reviews highlight the game's ability to evoke laughter even in frustrating situations, showcasing its unique charm and clever design. Overall, the humor is described as a standout feature that enhances the gaming experience, making it enjoyable both solo and with friends.

    • “[b]Waldorf's Journey[/b] is a hilarious party game where you and your opponent hurl walruses at each other.”
    • “The first time we booted Mortol, we cried laughing at the arrow ability for a solid minute!”
    • “From the high concept of a found game console, to the fresh game mechanics and hilariously weird characters and concepts, it’s a treasure.”
  • emotional
    40 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Players have expressed that the emotional experience of Ufo 50 is profound, often evoking nostalgia and heartfelt connections reminiscent of childhood. The game's meta storytelling and the love poured into its design create moments that are both touching and relatable, making players laugh and cry as they navigate its challenges. Overall, it is celebrated as a sincere tribute to the joy and emotional depth of video gaming.

    • “Ufo 50 is one of the most heartfelt and interesting pieces of collaborative art to have ever graced the world - none the less the video game industry.”
    • “The amount of love that went into this game is heartwarming.”
    • “It made me laugh, and it made me cry (that orange couch in the mias program, man).”
  • grinding
    36 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Reviews indicate that the grinding aspect of the game is a mixed bag; while some players appreciate the depth and strategy involved in leveling up, many find the grinding tedious and overly time-consuming. The game features a variety of experiences, but several encounters and requirements can feel punishing and detract from the overall enjoyment, leading to frustration rather than engagement. Overall, the grinding may appeal to dedicated fans of the genre, but it risks alienating those who prefer a more streamlined experience.

    • “Had promise but just way too grindy for my tastes, and every combat encounter took way longer than it needed to.”
    • “There is also a need for a lot of 'grinding' in order to level up.”
    • “I'll come back and review the rest later; after playing these so far, I got tired of the tediousness of it and lack of interest.”
  • atmosphere
    27 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The atmosphere in these games is generally well-crafted, effectively evoking the intended moods through sound design and music, though it may not reach the iconic levels of classic titles like Mega Man 2. Many players appreciate the eerie and immersive environments, particularly in horror games like Night Manor, while others find themselves drawn back to the games primarily for their atmospheric soundtracks. Overall, the developers have succeeded in creating engaging and memorable atmospheres that enhance the gameplay experience.

    • “The developers did a remarkable job creating a mood and atmosphere surrounding the IPs of this fantasy console.”
    • “Absolutely amazing atmosphere and cleverly well thought out puzzles.”
    • “At first I was initially repulsed both by how sluggish it felt and a series of incredibly unfortunate coincidences causing me to make incorrect assumptions about the gameplay... but something about the oddly oppressive atmosphere kept dragging me in.”
    • “Night Manor is a point-and-click horror game that surprisingly creates an eerie atmosphere that games like Clock Tower pioneered.”
    • “It's all very acceptable as background music and sound design for each game, and works generally to evoke the intended atmosphere, but does not transcend the medium with truly great leitmotifs, as Mega Man 2 did.”
  • stability
    18 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Overall, the stability of the game collection is mixed; while many users report smooth performance and no significant issues on the Steam Deck, some titles like Barbuta experience freezing and audio glitches. A few minor graphical bugs and NPC issues are noted, but these are generally seen as patchable and not detrimental to the overall experience. Despite some jankiness in certain games, players appreciate the nostalgic feel and modern execution of the collection.

    • “This collection of games is worth every penny; it runs great on the Steam Deck with zero issues.”
    • “Loving it already, and it runs great on the Steam Deck!”
    • “Runs great on the deck; not sure what the info box is talking about since I've never seen a mouse or keyboard icon in the game.”
    • “Barbuta freezes and has a buzz at every screen transition.”
    • “Cyber owls: janky / buggy but can be fun.”
    • “Also, if I must critique some things, there are a few random graphical glitches I've noticed in Vainger and an NPC that can body-block you in front of a saloon in Grimstone, but those are patchable issues and just me nitpicking.”
  • optimization
    16 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Overall, the game's optimization is praised for its smooth performance and fair price-to-quality ratio, with many players reporting no significant issues. However, some users noted that performance and difficulty spikes can hinder meaningful progress, suggesting room for improvement in these areas. The graphic style may not appeal to everyone, but those who enjoy it find the experience well-optimized and engaging.

    • “Music, art, mechanics, and performance are awesome.”
    • “Distills the bizarre and wonderful experience of exploring a retro console's library into a quick, easy, and optimized experience (i.e. no adult mahjong games or 'oda no yabou' to sift through).”
    • “The only thing I think needs to be improved: the performance and difficulty issues in this collection are just too much to ever make meaningful progress.”
    • “And, it shouldn't have to be said but it does, the game actually runs totally fine; I've not had any issues with anything relating to performance.”
    • “Updating review at almost 50 hours: I still feel this way (I have 16 hours in party house itself and have optimized each situation, currently am in the middle of a 13-game random win streak) ... but have also gotten more into Porgy and Mortol, among other games.”
  • monetization
    14 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The monetization aspect of the game is praised for its absence of microtransactions, pay-to-win mechanics, and other modern predatory practices, offering a refreshing return to pure, sincere gaming. Players appreciate the focus on exploration and replayability without the distractions of battle passes or ads, highlighting the game's integrity and soul compared to the industry's typical cash grabs. Overall, it represents a nostalgic era of gaming that prioritizes fun over profit.

    • “No microtransactions, no modern horrors, just pure, sincere gaming, designed to be explored, shared, replayed endlessly or even mastered as a speedrun for the most tenacious.”
    • “Just plain old fun with no microtransactions and pay-to-win mechanics.”
    • “Game that actually has a soul and not a cash grab.”
    • “An era without microtransactions, predatory practices, and modern gaming trends as a whole.”
    • “Best of all, I get to forget about battle passes, ads, separate launchers, and all the other woes of modern gaming.”
  • character development
    4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Character development in the game is praised for its stylish and appealing designs, though there is notable inconsistency in visual quality across different titles within the collection.

    • “All of the character designs so far are so good!”
    • “While the collection is stylish overall, the visual and character design quality varies widely between the games.”

83%Critics’ scoreBased on 7 critic reviews

Buy UFO 50

27h Median play time
31h Average play time
8-50h Spent by most gamers
*Based on 109 analyzed playthroughs

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