Vactics
- June 20, 2022
- The Lemur Conspiracy
Get on Steam
Get on itch.io Store"Vactics" is a demo game set in Solitude City, 2085 AD, where robotic Vactics have taken over. As a mech builder, construct your own mech using different types of tech and mods, and complete the "Save the City" campaign by fighting off Vactics and salvaging mechs. The game features color customization, a codex to complete, and a glimpse into the stories of the city, its residents, and the Vactics.
Reviews
- The game features simple yet engaging mechanics that are easy to learn but hard to master, providing a satisfying challenge.
- The pixel art style is clean and charming, with multiple unlockable color palettes that enhance the visual experience.
- There is a strong sense of progression with a variety of unlockable skills and customizable loadouts, making each playthrough feel unique.
- Some game mechanics are poorly explained, leading to confusion about how to effectively use certain features.
- The health drain per turn mechanic can create frustrating situations, making it difficult to strategize effectively.
- The difficulty ramps up quickly, which may lead to repetitive gameplay as players encounter the same enemy types in early zones.
- gameplay13 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 23 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by its addicting, puzzle-like mechanics that are easy to learn yet offer deep strategic complexity, making it engaging for players seeking a casual challenge. However, some mechanics are poorly explained, leading to confusion, and the health drain per turn can create frustrating situations that detract from the overall experience. Despite these issues, the game is praised for its minimalist design and tight tactical gameplay, making it a compelling rogue-lite option.
“Addicting, smart, puzzle-like core game mechanics.”
“Easy to learn gameplay and pleasing visual layout.”
“Minimalist gameplay with lots of depth, interesting mechanics and enough variety to keep engaged.”
“Some of the game mechanics are poorly explained, or not explained at all (e.g. how exactly can some of the buildings on the later maps be 'hacked').”
“And some maps get you stuck in a lose-lose situation because of the health drain per turn mechanic.”
“The game needs to reduce or outright remove the health drain per turn mechanic, offer more ways to heal, or more variety in the first few rounds to keep it more engaging.”
- graphics8 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
The graphics are characterized by clean, crisp pixel art that combines nostalgic charm with a modern aesthetic, creating a visually delightful experience. The three-tone style enhances the game's atmosphere, and the polished visuals contribute to an impressive first impression, even in early access. Additionally, the party mode adds variety by changing graphics dynamically during gameplay.
“The three-tone pixel art style is an absolute visual delight!”
“It adds a nostalgic charm to the game while maintaining a modern and sleek aesthetic.”
“Already a pretty polished mech turn-based tactical game with well done minimalist graphics.”
“Clean strategy, polished art style, and it's all still just early access.”
“Already a pretty polished mech turn-based tactical game with well-done minimalist graphics.”
- story3 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
The story is generally considered lackluster, with sparse lore, but players appreciate the brief narrative snippets that enhance the experience. The game's compact structure allows for enjoyable, bite-sized missions, making it easy to engage with the story at one's own pace.
“The story is a bit lackluster and the lore is rather sparse.”
“I did appreciate the little snippets of story you get from the game.”
- music1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The music in the game is well-received, complementing its light-hearted sci-fi theme effectively. Reviewers appreciate its quality and suitability for the overall atmosphere.
“The music is good, well suited to the light-hearted, sci-fi theme of the game.”
- atmosphere1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its immersive atmosphere, complemented by impressive supporting art that enhances the overall experience.
“It has a captivating atmosphere and great supporting art too!”
“The atmosphere immerses you completely, making every moment feel intense and alive.”
“The game's atmosphere is hauntingly beautiful, drawing you into its world.”
