zzzz-zzzz-zzzz
- August 1, 2013
- SaintHeiser
Get on Steam
Get on itch.io Store"ZZZZ-ZZZZ-ZZZZ" is a dream-themed indie game where players must navigate through various surreal levels filled with challenges and obstacles. Use arrow keys to move and jump, and the Z button for actions such as entering doors or using superpowers. Can you escape the dreamworld and wake up? If stuck, try Z button or Esc for help.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game features a unique and creative puzzle design that encourages exploration and critical thinking.
- It has a charming atmosphere with interesting dreamscapes and a relaxing soundtrack, making it enjoyable to play.
- Many players find it to be a hidden indie gem, appreciating its originality and the challenge it presents.
- The game can be confusing and vague, often leaving players unsure of what to do next without external help like walkthroughs.
- Movement is described as sluggish, which can lead to frustration during gameplay and detracts from the overall experience.
- Some puzzles are seen as overly obtuse or difficult for the sake of difficulty, which can lead to a sense of tedium.
- gameplay10 mentions
- 40 % positive mentions
- 40 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by unique and engaging mechanics that can provide hours of entertainment, blending platforming and puzzling elements effectively. While some titles may prioritize artistic expression over traditional gameplay strength, they can still resonate deeply with players, as seen in examples like "Yume Nikki." Overall, the gameplay is well-received for its creativity and ability to captivate.
“The mechanics are nice and unique, and it can keep me occupied for hours.”
“This is the sort of thing that lives and dies by its artistic merits, and that's not immediately damning; Yume Nikki didn't have very strong gameplay, but it's my favorite adventure title of all time.”
“Platforming/puzzling gameplay.”
- graphics8 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 38 % negative mentions
The game's graphics are noted for their unique style, setting them apart from others; however, the artwork has received criticism for being subpar, particularly the minimalist pixel art that some players find unappealing. While the intention may be to create an artistic experience, it does not resonate well with all audiences.
“Doesn't try to copy others, having its unique style both in graphics and in the game itself.”
“This might be a personal bias, but while I love pixel art, I don't like the 'minimalist' pixel art style used by a lot of indie developers that are trying to make something 'artistic'.”
“So, what about the traditional artistic merits (i.e. the visuals)?”
“So, what about the traditional artistic merits (i.e. the visuals)?”
- story6 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's story is characterized by its bizarre ideas and minimal interaction, which collectively create a compelling narrative from disparate elements. Players appreciate the simplicity of the controls and goals, while the atmosphere enhances the overall experience, making the unconventional storytelling approach effective and engaging.
“The levels operate on all sorts of bizarre ideas and logic, with an emphasis on minimal interaction that builds a greater story from the disparate pieces.”
“Amazingly extensive and intriguing story (or lack thereof, but it works here).”
“Pros: simple controls, simple story/goal, amazing atmosphere.”
- music6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 33 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The music in the game is described as a relaxing soundtrack that complements the gameplay, featuring pleasant and tinkling background melodies that enhance the atmosphere amidst the more intense elements like zombies and deadly ceilings. Overall, players find the music to be a nice addition to the experience.
“The music is really nice!”
“Zombies, deadly ceilings, and ghostly reflections all wait for you, interspersed with pleasant strolls through cloudy landscapes and tinkling background music.”
“Relaxing soundtrack.”
- atmosphere4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is consistently praised for its profound sense of peace, creating a calming experience despite some challenging and frustrating elements. Reviewers highlight the simplicity of the controls and story as contributing factors to this immersive ambiance.
“Some parts are tricky, some are frustrating, but the atmosphere is one of profound peace.”
“Pros: simple controls, simple story/goal, amazing atmosphere.”
- humor2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is characterized by its surreal and dreamlike quality, featuring bizarre logic and skewed perspectives that contribute to its comedic elements. Players appreciate the blend of absurdity and humor, enhancing the overall experience.
“It really does feel like a dream, with weird logic and skewed perspectives, but it has funny elements as well.”
- replayability2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game offers high replayability, though in a unique manner, as the dreams remain constant while the interconnected paths through them provide varied experiences. Players can explore different routes, leading to fresh insights despite the static dream environments.
“High replayability - but in an unusual way, since the dreams themselves don't change, and all paths through the dreams intertwine.”
- grinding2 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
Players find the grinding aspect of the game tedious and frustrating, often feeling the need to rely on walkthroughs for guidance. This has led to a sense of dissatisfaction, as they hope to enjoy the game without resorting to external help.
“The unfortunate truth is that without even a little help, I may have to turn to a walkthrough, which is something I would not want at all. I will continue to play and hopefully understand more, but for the meanwhile, I find some elements in the game tediously done.”
