Ever wonder what it was like to repair a computer from the inside? Ever wonder if it has a bunch of neon lights and shooting and jumping? Well, Recompile aims to answer that with a confident yes. Recompile is a Metroidvania adventure game published by Dear Villagers and developed by Phigames, a “micro-studio” consisting of three team members: coder Phi Dinh, animator James Vincent Marshall and sound designer Richard Evans. Recompile is not this team’s first outing but its atmospheric setting, visual design and aspirations for solid gameplay make Recompile something to look out for. Although the 3D platforming and minute to minute gameplay can get a bit same-y, the intense setting and interesting, albeit short story made me enjoy playing through Recompile.
Beats to Platform/Move to
Recompile, like many other indie games, seeks to wow on its first impression through stunning and striking presentation. I have to admit and maybe it’s because my tastes in games have changed, but seeing a coherent, beautifully crafted, and unique aesthetic in a game is so much more interesting than hyperrealism. Recompile looks amazing, the Tron-like bright lights, the minimalist HUD and stylized text gives you the feeling that you are the program inside a computer (maybe one of those mega RGB gaming rigs). The sound design is great, the little subtle beeps and boops that are pretty much expected from a game as neon as Recompile are great. The music throughout the levels is varied in their execution, from softer, calmer techno beats to more intense bass-y hits. I really hope there’s a soundtrack somewhere on Spotify or YouTube because if there is one takeaway from Recompile, it was definitely the soundtrack for me.
Inconsistent at Best
Unfortunately, where I think I enjoyed Recompile the least is the gameplay. I am personally not a huge Metroidvania fan (although I can totally see the appeal!). You start off with some basic attacks and movement abilities and as you clear, explore and return to the various levels in Recompile, you will gain more abilities that will make the game not just more thrilling to play but also easier. Movement is definitely the best and most well-designed aspect of Recompile’s gameplay, and I felt great traversing the game’s levels, especially after unlocking the dash and glides. Combat, however, felt a bit lacking. I was not really into some of the shooting mechanics, feeling like it drastically slowed down the slick and smooth movement. The bosses are not fun to fight whatsoever but thankfully are not super common. I also found the puzzles simple to complete and clear, which although not a negative, definitely make the gameplay slice of Recompile’s pie a bit smaller.
Hackers, Beware
Recompile is a game that is ambitious in what it seeks to achieve. Although it isn’t a long game by any means, only taking a few hours to complete, nor is it a difficult one, it still surprises with a beautiful world, stunning sound design and slick movement. What Recompile lacks, its mediocre combat, and simplistic puzzles, are not deal breakers in my opinion. Fighting the occasional enemy, having to work with the combat systems can be a little annoying but the soundtrack and the promise of more of its awesome platforming more than made up for it. Recompile is just a really nice and short package that despite a few small downsides, will leave those interested in a new Metroidvania game satisfied.
7/10
Check Out the Recompile Trailer here – https://youtu.be/21dEkdNRsdo
Recompile is available for PC via Steam. For more information, visit: https://dearvillagers.com/project/recompile-game/
Shop Amazon: https://amzn.to/3wUQq51
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Steam Review
My name is Matt Tran and I have been playing video games since I could remember holding a controller. I've always been a hardcore gamer growing up, from the hectic MW2 and Halo 3 lobbies, my many journeys through several Halo clans and my current exploits with my Destiny 2 clan. I love shooters and RPGs and overanalyzing every component of every game I've played, from weapon stats to ideal perks. When I have time to play other games, I currently play Genshin Impact and Star Wars Squadrons.
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