The indie scene can always be relied on to supply a steady stream of new releases, and with Billy 101, Buddy Simulator 1984 and Hyper-5 we are checking out three brand new ones for consoles that previously came out on Steam.
Billy 101 review (PS4)
Billy 101 is a 2D platformer created by indie developer Nibb Games, and is a retro-inspired platformer with puzzle elements. The game takes place in a world where all the inhabitants are clones of the titular character, Billy, as players take control of one of these clones to navigate through thirty levels filled with obstacles and enemies.
The gameplay mechanics are straightforward but well-executed, with precise controls and a good sense of momentum. The levels are challenging, but not frustratingly so, and there’s a good variety of enemies and obstacles to keep players on their toes. The game also features a fun power-up system, where players can collect different hats that grant special abilities, such as double-jumping or shooting projectiles.
Billy 101’s art style combines pixel art with a vibrant color palette for a charming retro aesthetic that will appeal to fans of classic platformers, with a catchy chiptune-style soundtrack that complements the gameplay – something that you’ll have seen before from Ratalaika, who are publishing this console port.
Billy 101 is a short but solid indie platformer that offers a good challenge and a unique concept. It’s not perfect as the game’s length is on the shorter side – but it’s a fun and well-crafted experience that’s worth checking out for fans of the genre and has a price tag to match its brevity. If you’re looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane, or just a good little platformer to sink your teeth into for an evening, Billy 101 is definitely worth your time.
Buddy Simulator 1984 review (PS4)
Thanks to a rather unique approach to the genre, Feardemic’s new console port of Buddy Simulator 1984 is an interesting game that combines elements of adventure, simulation, and horror. Developed by Not a Sailor Studios, the game takes players on a journey through a retro-themed virtual world where they interact with an AI character known as Buddy.
The game starts out innocently enough, with players taking control of a character who receives a Buddy device in the mail. From there, players can explore a variety of environments, complete quests, and chat with Buddy. The AI character is surprisingly responsive and engaging, with a good sense of humor and a personality that evolves over time.
However, as players progress through the game, they start to realize that something isn’t quite right with Buddy. The game’s atmosphere takes a dark turn, with unsettling glitches, eerie music, and a feeling of constant unease. The horror elements are well-done, with jump scares and moments of genuine terror that will keep players on edge.
Despite the game’s horror elements, the gameplay is more focused on exploration and story than on combat or puzzles. The graphics are retro-inspired and well-executed, with a great attention to detail in the environments and character design and with its visual roots firmly in the home computer and early DOS era. The sound design is also noteworthy, with a creepy soundtrack that perfectly complements the game’s horror elements.
Overall, Buddy Simulator 1984 is a unique and engaging experience that combines elements of adventure, simulation, and horror. It’s not without its flaws – some players may find the horror elements too intense or the pacing a bit slow – but it’s a well-crafted game that will keep you engaged from start to finish. If you’re a fan of unique indie horror games, Buddy Simulator 1984 is worth checking out.
Hyper-5 review (PS4)
Hyper-5 is an intense sci-fi shoot ’em up game developed by Hyper Productions, where players take control of a high-tech spacecraft and battle through waves of enemies across multiple levels. The game offers a challenging and satisfying experience that will appeal to fans of the genre that was pioneered by the likes of R-Type and Gradius – with impressive visuals that reminiscent of more modern takes like Sine Mora as well.
The gameplay in Hyper-5 is engaging, with tight controls and a variety of weapons and power-ups that keep the action fresh and exciting. The levels are well-designed, offering a range of challenges and obstacles that require quick reflexes and strategic thinking to overcome. The game also features a range of bosses, each with their own unique attack patterns and weaknesses.
For an indie game released at this price point, the visuals in Hyper-5 stand out, featuring vibrant and detailed sci-fi environments with impressive lighting effects that add to the game’s immersion. The enemy designs are also creative and well-crafted, with a range of unique and challenging foes to battle. Add in a thumping techno soundtrack that complements the game’s intense action and your usual array of explosions and laser blasts and you’re looking at a nice retro-modern arcade shooter.
It’s unfortunate that Hyper-5 doesn’t feature any multiplayer options, hurting the replay value for those looking to play online or in local co-op with games like this. But despite fairly generic gameplay and level designs, this is a fun shoot ’em up if you’re looking for a new game in the genre that doesn’t go the bullet hell route.
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