In the chaotic Ready, Steady, Ship!, you and a friend can dive into the hectic world of a delivery warehouse, tasked with the seemingly simple job of shipping boxes. Developed by Martynas Cibulis and published by Untold Tales, this cooperative adventure on PlayStation 5 offers a solid blend of frantic gameplay, cheerful presentation, and a wealth of challenges that shines in multiplayer.
The premise of Ready, Steady, Ship! is straightforward: assemble conveyor belts, navigate obstacles, and ensure the timely delivery of boxes to their designated trucks. But what starts as a seemingly simple task quickly escalates into a whirlwind of challenges, with each level introducing new mechanics and obstacles to overcome. From assembling conveyor belts to operating machinery like forklifts and cranes, there’s a good variety of tasks to keep the gameplay fresh and engaging.
One of the standout features of Ready, Steady, Ship! is its cheerful presentation, featuring vibrant visuals and catchy music that give everything an upbeat feel – though you can easily argue that it’s too similar to similar games in the genre like Overcooked. The cast of characters adds to the lively atmosphere, with quirky animations and humorous moments that add personality. Whether it’s the temporary speed boost from drinking coffee or the hilarious mishaps that occur during gameplay, the lighthearted tone is a very pleasant one indeed.
However, amidst the chaos, there are occasional frustrations to contend with. Placing objects can be finicky, sometimes leading to unintended consequences and hindering progress. Additionally, the physics mechanics occasionally feel unfair, resulting in unpredictable outcomes that can disrupt the flow of gameplay. Despite these minor issues, the cooperative gameplay shines, rewarding good communication and quick thinking as you and your partner navigate the challenges together.
As you progress through the campaign, the levels become increasingly complex, testing your coordination and problem-solving skills. Whether you’re delivering boxes across precarious platforms or navigating hazardous environments, each level offers a unique take on the game’s formula. The game’s pacing also ensures a steady increase in difficulty, keeping you engaged and motivated to conquer each new obstacle throughout the campaign.
Ready, Steady, Ship! offers both solo and cooperative modes, with the latter being the preferred way to experience the game. While the single-player mode provides a satisfying challenge (and a decent way to get used to the mechanics), the true joy of the game lies in its cooperative gameplay, where you and a friend must work together to overcome the chaos of the warehouse.
In conclusion, Ready, Steady, Ship! is a fun new co-op experience that delivers on its promise of chaotic yet charming fun. With its lighthearted presentation, diverse gameplay mechanics, and rewarding cooperative gameplay, it’s a must-play for fans of couch co-op adventures. Despite some minor frustrations, the game offers a wealth of content and variety in its challenges to keep you entertained for hours on end, so it’s an easy recommendation if you enjoy similar games already.
Score: 7.7/10
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