If I had to recommend one indie launch this year, it would be Mossmouth’s UFO 50, primarily because this retro game anthology perfectly captures the essence of games from the NES era, with most titles feeling as if they were crafted in that bygone age, while still offering a modern package.
Among the chaos of massive game launches at the end of the year, it’s challenging to carve out time for smaller titles when you’re in the gaming industry. As an avid consumer of content, I dedicate a significant portion of my work hours to exploring various topics; however, video games demand a unique level of dedication and attention. With the constant risk of burnout, it’s crucial that we balance our gaming experiences with lighter, more carefree options alongside the complex, larger titles.
For the previous few weeks, UFO 50 (solely out there on Steam for now) has been my ‘recreation to play whereas having one thing on within the background’ and I could not be extra impressed with what Derek Yu and the proficient builders behind Downwell, Air Land & Sea, Skorpulac, Catacomb Youngsters, and Madhouse have put collectively over 9 flippin’ years (take a look at this report on the gathering that VG247 printed… again in 2017).
In reality, most people have been tasked with additional responsibilities at their workplaces. Among the most notable releases was Spelunky 2, finally debuted by Yu in 2020. Meanwhile, the enigmatic UFO 50 remained under wraps, its evolution unfolding quietly until finally, in late September, it emerged without fanfare, only to have the press pounce on the story. Despite initial reservations, it has become clear that claims of extraordinary nature have been grossly overstated. Can this narrative drive the Game of the Year discussions?
Positive, loads of solo builders and indie studios have mastered the NES-era aesthetic and design philosophies, but I find myself wondering if many of these titles have sacrificed depth for fashion, feeling overly stylized yet lacking the magic that made classic games so enjoyable. The UFO 50 compilation appears to be a hodgepodge of older games, comprising 50 retro titles that may not necessarily have been curated or optimized for modern audiences, much like a collection of bootlegged game cartridges from various sources.
I must confess: I quickly opted out of playing a few of the video games I’ve tested so far, largely because I wasn’t in the mood to figure out obscure mechanics or timing, but almost none of these titles have left me feeling unenthusiastic or uninspired. While there’s a discernible purpose driving each endeavour, it’s equally evident that others might not resonate with my perspective; nonetheless, I’m confident that someone else will derive joy from exploring their potential. Regardless of the scenario, they cover a wide range of genres and strive to recreate the evolution of a hypothetical game development company during the 1980s. Ultimately, this quest for authenticity has driven gamers to uncover a higher-level narrative that exponentially amplifies the absurdity of the entire situation.
Accessibility features help users navigate controls with ease, making a significant difference in overall usability. While some modern video games may seem challenging by today’s standards, ultimately, it’s the unique game design and developers’ willingness to push players to rediscover their skills from days gone by that truly make them stand out. Titles offering multiplayer options or designed natively as social gathering games aim to be effortlessly accessible, encouraging quick pick-ups and enjoyable sessions.
This isn’t an overview, so I won’t pretend to have completed the entire collection nor will I delve into details. I’m thoroughly enthralled to be devoting a significant amount of time to this delightful experience, and I’m savoring every moment of it slowly but surely. It’s more enjoyable during prolonged gaming sessions or as a mid-day pick-me-up, but may struggle to maintain its appeal during intense, marathon gaming sessions better suited to fast-paced games. I sense that you’re hinting at the importance of self-discovery and exploration in order to uncover one’s true potential. Your words seem to be nudging me to embark on a personal journey of introspection and contemplation, allowing myself to uncover the hidden treasures within. Am I correct?
As a testament to its genre-defying appeal, this game is an ideal match for your Steam Deck; it’s hard to imagine it won’t make its way onto the Switch at some point in the near future. As you navigate the uncharted waters of life, you’ll find yourself replacing “another spherical” with “another adventure,” for in this unpredictable journey, every moment holds the potential to surprise and delight. As long as you’re willing to give it your best shot, even attempting to defeat them can be a valuable learning experience, with the mere act of trying bringing its own unique rewards and personal growth. With its nostalgic appeal, UFO: Enemy Unknown 50 revisits the enchanting essence of classic video games that you lovingly played through countless times, but rarely conquered. Achievements await true sickos although.
Here are some potentially valuable ideas to consider before you depart: Mortol, Velgress, Attactics, Bushido Ball, Camouflage, Campanella, Warptank – truly remarkable – and Porgy. Without hesitation, they dive headfirst. This untamed odyssey must not be sullied by the sterile, soulless manifestations of consumerism. The nostalgia coursing through your veins would likely yield a personalized list of cherished moments, but alas, this introspective meander is nothing more than a fleeting reverie.
