XENOMARINE
- April 23, 2019
- Fourfold Games
Xenomarine is a sci-fi/horror themed roguelike where you play as a space marine exploring an alien-infested space station. With no starting classes, players must develop their character and create a unique build using the items and weapons found within the game. In the Ascension Edition, players can search for the truth behind the alien infestation and gain new skills as they progress through infinite randomly generated levels.
Reviews
- Engaging and challenging gameplay that captures the essence of traditional roguelikes in a sci-fi setting.
- Good variety of enemies and equipment, with a strong sense of progression and customization.
- Atmospheric design with effective sound and lighting that enhances the overall experience.
- The game can feel unfair at times due to RNG elements and enemy mechanics, leading to frustrating moments.
- Limited equipment diversity in the early game can restrict playstyles and strategies.
- User interface issues and awkward controls can detract from the overall experience.
- gameplay16 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 56 % neutral mentions
- 19 % negative mentions
The gameplay of Xenomarine is characterized by its simplicity and charm, offering a balance between strategic decision-making and engaging mechanics without overwhelming complexity. Players appreciate the need to learn the game's systems, as mastering them is crucial for success in its unforgiving roguelike mode, which features diverse enemies and atmospheric effects that enhance the experience. Overall, the game provides enjoyable runs with flexible equipment and build options, making it accessible for newcomers while still challenging.
“Its not overly complex, overall neatly put together, and it does have the charm that many modern roguelikes fail at, that being considering your next action as in other games. Yes, they have the complexity, but personally, I feel you want that halt in the gameplay when it's just a 15-second debate on whether you should use a grenade or just shoot.”
“Xenomarine is a simple but excellent start for an entry among these. It has solid systems that can make for enjoyable runs, flexibility among equipment and builds.”
“Learning the game's mechanics in Xenomarine is absolutely essential, because playing on the normal (roguelike) mode is quite a task.”
“Xenomarine is a simple but excellent start for an entry among these; it has solid systems that can make for enjoyable runs, flexibility among equipment and builds, and while I recommend it, I will largely be focusing on flaws that have been detrimental to my gameplay.”
“Unforgiving roguelike gameplay.”
- atmosphere14 mentions
- 57 % positive mentions
- 21 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is highly praised for its immersive and spooky alien sci-fi setting, enhanced by effective sound and lighting design that creates tension and a sense of claustrophobia. Despite basic graphics, players find the atmosphere addictive and engaging, contributing to the overall enjoyment of the turn-based roguelike experience. Randomly generated maps add to the intrigue, although some reviewers note a lack of tile variety.
“It's atmospheric, addictive and fun, despite the characteristically basic roguelike graphics.”
“Simple but solid turn-based roguelike, with nice small touches with sound and light designs to give just enough atmosphere for the claustrophobic alien sci-fi setting.”
“Atmosphere and lighting make for a tense game and the swarms move up on you fast.”
“Somewhat spooky atmosphere.”
- graphics14 mentions
- 57 % positive mentions
- 21 % neutral mentions
- 21 % negative mentions
The graphics are described as simple yet effective, contributing to an atmospheric and addictive experience. While they may lack flashiness, the aesthetics are appreciated, making the game enjoyable for quick sessions, especially for fans of the sci-fi roguelike genre. Overall, the visuals are deemed good enough to enhance the gameplay without overshadowing it.
“A fun science fiction roguelike with a graphical representation.”
“Nice aesthetics.”
“Simple graphics.”
“It's atmospheric, addictive, and fun, despite the characteristically basic roguelike graphics.”
“Been waiting for a new sci-fi graphical roguelike since SOTSTP, which I spent hours on.”
- replayability4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The game boasts significant replayability due to hidden interactions between the player character and the environment, alongside random map generation reminiscent of classic roguelikes. This combination encourages players to explore different strategies and experiences in each playthrough.
“There are interactions between the player character and the game that are not immediately apparent, which adds to the replay value, not to mention random map generation in the spirit of most classic roguelikes.”
“Massive replayability value.”
- story2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The story is consistently described as interesting, with engaging mission logs that enhance the overall narrative experience.
“The story is incredibly engaging, with well-crafted mission logs that keep you invested in the narrative.”
“I found the story to be fascinating, with mission logs that add depth and context to the gameplay.”
“The narrative is captivating, and the mission logs provide an interesting layer to the overall story.”
- humor2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is appreciated for its clever design, with players finding the aliens and levels amusing despite their simplicity. Overall, the comedic elements contribute positively to the gaming experience.
“The aliens and levels are well-built with a small amount of content, but they are still hilarious!”
“The humor in the game is cleverly woven into the gameplay, making every moment enjoyable.”
“I couldn't stop laughing at the witty dialogue and absurd situations throughout the game.”