UFO 50

97%
Game Brain Score Based on 4,444 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • music
UFO 50 Game Cover
UFO 50 is a celebration of retro gaming, full of wonderful modern ideas, sensational video games and a whole lot of content.
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"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.

  • PC
  • Windows
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

97%
Audience ScoreBased on 4,444 reviews
gameplay119 positive mentions
grinding16 negative mentions
  • UFO 50 is an incredible value, offering 50 full games for the price of one, with many games being worth the price individually.
  • The collection features a wide variety of genres and gameplay styles, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
  • The nostalgic feel of the games, combined with modern design sensibilities, 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 casual players.
  • Not every game in the collection resonates with all players, leading to a mixed experience where some may find several games unappealing.
  • The lack of quality-of-life features, such as manuals or save systems in certain games, can make the experience feel dated and less accessible.
  • gameplay438 mentions

    The gameplay in "UFO 50" is a rich tapestry of retro-inspired mechanics and modern innovations, offering players a diverse collection of 50 unique games that range from action and puzzle to RPG and strategy. Each game encourages exploration and discovery, often requiring players to learn mechanics through experimentation rather than explicit tutorials, which can lead to both frustration and rewarding moments of realization. While the collection showcases a variety of engaging gameplay styles, some titles may feel overly simplistic or punishing, but overall, the depth and creativity present in many of the games make it a compelling experience for fans of retro gaming.

    • “Incredible in most regards; really good pixel art; incredibly big and high quality soundtrack; 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.”
    • “Overhyped, clunky gameplay.”
  • graphics176 mentions

    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 attention to detail and variety in art styles across the collection, highlighting how the visuals evoke the charm of classic games while avoiding the hardware limitations of the past. Overall, the game's graphics are celebrated for their authenticity and creativity, making it a must-play for fans 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!”
    • “The graphics are not what we've grown used to in the 21st century.”
    • “While many games these days are doing the retro aesthetic, either with NES/SNES or PSX/N64 graphics and sound, UFO 50 is maybe one of the only titles I've played that actually captures the feeling of playing those old games.”
    • “I would have preferred a slightly less cartoony art style overall, and I would have liked to see a more straightforward platformer in the collection.”
  • music160 mentions

    The music in the game has received widespread acclaim for its impressive variety and quality, featuring a massive soundtrack of over 300 tracks that evoke nostalgia while blending seamlessly with the gameplay. While some players noted that certain games lack sufficient music or have repetitive tracks, many praised the overall composition and thematic coherence, highlighting standout pieces that enhance the gaming experience. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a significant highlight, showcasing meticulous care and creativity in its design.

    • “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.”
    • “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.”
    • “A lot of these games needed more music.”
  • story142 mentions

    The story aspect of "UFO 50" is a rich tapestry woven through its 50 games, each contributing to the overarching narrative of a fictional game development company, Ufosoft, and its evolution over time. Players appreciate the clever integration of meta-narratives, hidden secrets, and interconnected themes that enhance the experience, making it feel like a nostalgic journey through retro gaming history. While some games offer minimal plot, the compilation as a whole is celebrated for its innovative storytelling approach, inviting players to explore and uncover the lore behind each title.

    • “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.”
    • “It's weird, it's hard, it's cryptic & loose in terms of 'story', and it truly gives that feeling of exploration & discovery that can only come when you're dropped into foreign worlds with little to no direction.”
  • replayability36 mentions

    The game boasts exceptional replayability, with many titles offering standalone experiences that can be played for hours, often featuring unique challenges and achievements. Players appreciate the variety and depth, noting that even if some games are less appealing, the overall collection provides ample motivation to keep returning. With a mix of single-player and multiplayer options, the replay value is enhanced by secrets, alternate win conditions, and the potential for extensive playtime, making it a compelling choice for those seeking long-term engagement.

    • “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.”
    • “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.”
    • “The amount of variety and replay value in this is staggering.”
  • humor23 mentions

    The humor in "Waldorf's Journey" is widely praised, with players finding the game both hilarious and charming, particularly in its multiplayer mode where players engage in wacky walrus-hurling antics. Many reviews highlight the game's ability to evoke laughter through its quirky characters, absurd scenarios, and clever mechanics, making it a standout experience for those who enjoy a comedic touch in gaming. Overall, the humor is described as smart, unique, and capable of eliciting both laughter and frustration in equal measure.

    • “Waldorf's Journey 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.”
  • emotional20 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted by its nostalgic and heartfelt storytelling, which resonates deeply with players, evoking feelings of joy, sadness, and a sense of childhood wonder. Many reviewers express that the game successfully balances wholesome moments without becoming overly sentimental, creating a genuine connection through its art and design. Overall, it is praised as a touching tribute to the gaming medium, leaving players both emotionally moved and entertained.

    • “The amount of love that went into this game is heartwarming.”
    • “Ufo 50 is one of the most heartfelt and interesting pieces of collaborative art to have ever graced the world - nonetheless the video game industry.”
    • “It made me laugh, and it made me cry (that orange couch in the mias program, man).”
  • grinding16 mentions

    Reviews highlight a mixed experience with grinding in the game collection, noting that while some games are engaging and avoid excessive repetition, others are criticized for being overly tedious and punishing. Players express frustration with the grind required for leveling up and completing certain tasks, which can detract from the overall enjoyment. However, some appreciate the depth and strategy involved in the grinding process, particularly in JRPGs, suggesting that the experience may vary significantly based on individual preferences.

    • “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've clocked up 70 hours, none of that is grinding, and I still don't feel like I've scratched the surface of what this collection has to offer.”
  • atmosphere13 mentions

    The atmosphere in these games is generally well-crafted, effectively evoking the intended moods through sound design and music, though it may not always reach iconic levels. Titles like "Night Manor" and "Mooncat" are praised for their eerie and immersive environments, while others like "Waldorf's Journey" and "Pilot Quest" offer charming and whimsical atmospheres. Overall, players appreciate the strong atmospheric elements that enhance their gaming experience, often finding themselves drawn back for the ambiance alone.

    • “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.”
    • “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.”
    • “The developers did a remarkable job creating a mood and atmosphere surrounding the IPs of this fantasy console.”
  • stability9 mentions

    Overall, the stability of the game collection is mixed; while some titles like Barbuta experience freezing and bugs, others run smoothly without lag or major issues, particularly on the Steam Deck. Players have noted minor graphical glitches and NPC blockages, but these are generally seen as patchable and not detrimental to the overall experience. The collection is praised for its nostalgic design and modern functionality, making it a worthwhile investment despite some stability concerns.

    • “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; I'm 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.”
  • optimization8 mentions

    Overall, the game's optimization is generally well-received, with players noting smooth performance and no significant issues. However, some users have pointed out that certain performance and difficulty aspects could be improved to enhance meaningful progress. The game's graphic style and fair pricing also contribute positively to the overall experience.

    • “Music, art, mechanics, and performance are awesome.”
    • “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.”
    • “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.”
    • “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.”
    • “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).”
  • monetization7 mentions

    The monetization aspect of the game is praised for its absence of microtransactions, pay-to-win mechanics, and modern predatory practices, offering a pure and sincere gaming experience. Reviewers appreciate the focus on exploration and replayability without the distractions of battle passes or ads, highlighting a return to fun and soul in gaming rather than cash grabs.

    • “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 development2 mentions

    Character development is praised for its stylish designs, though there is notable inconsistency in visual quality across different games. Overall, the character designs are well-received, contributing positively to the gaming experience.

    • “All of the character designs so far are fantastic!”
    • “The character development is rich and engaging, making each character feel unique and memorable.”
    • “I love how the characters evolve throughout the game, with their backstories and personalities deepening as the story progresses.”
    • “While the collection is stylish overall, the visual and character design quality varies widely between the games.”
    • “The character development feels shallow and lacks depth, making it hard to connect with the protagonists.”
    • “I found the character arcs to be predictable and uninspired, leaving me disengaged from their journeys.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
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Critic Reviews

83% average critic score

Buy UFO 50

Play time

27hMedian play time
31hAverage play time
8-50hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 53 analyzed playthroughs

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