Onirism: A Colourful Blend of Shooter, Platformer, and Pure Joy
Dive into the enchanting world of Crearia with 'Onirism', an indie title that's more than meets the eye.
Early Access Review
last updated Apr 17, 2024
'Onirism' stands out like a unicorn at a horse party – vivid, colorful, and slightly magical.
A Shooter with A Hop, Skip, and A Jump
Lacing up your digital sneakers for 'Onirism' is akin to embarking on a nostalgia trip with a shotgun in hand. This title masterfully jumbles the shooter and platformer genres into a wildly entertaining concoction that screams tribute to the golden days of gaming. The gameplay is brisk, meshing seamless run-and-gun actions with a peppy dash of platform hopping that would make even the most stoic gamer crack a smile. Toss in a sprinkle of head-scratching challenges and delightful enemy ambushes, and you've got a recipe for fun that keeps you coming back for seconds. And thirds.
An Auditory Trip Down Memory Lane
Onirism doesn't just play its nostalgia card through visuals and gameplay – the audio experience is a direct line to the past, with a twist. The game's soundtrack whisks you away on a zephyr of retro vibes, reimagined in a way that feels fresh rather than derivative. From the sound of Carol's footsteps to the eclectic range of weapon effects, every auditory detail complements the visual feast on display. It's as if the game's creators took a leaf out of every iconic game's book and then composed a symphony that's both familiar and entirely new.
A Visual Treat, Performance to Boot
In the world of indie gaming, 'Onirism' stands out like a unicorn at a horse party – vivid, colorful, and slightly magical. The game's graphics paint a rich, cartoonish tapestry that's as inviting as it is expansive. And despite its indie status, performance issues are few and far between, ensuring that your adventure through Crearia is as smooth as Carol's quest for her beloved Bunbun. Minor bugs do pop up from time to time, reminiscent of the early days of gaming, but they're more endearing throwbacks than game-breaking issues.
A Toybox of Outfits, Weapons, and Endless Fun
If variety is the spice of life, then 'Onirism' is the gaming equivalent of a fully stocked spice rack. The game entices you with an arsenal that rivals any AAA title, offering everything from bubble blasters to plushie grenades. The addition of countless outfits and vehicles not only adds layers of customization but also injects the game with a playful soul that many modern titles lack. What's more, these goodies are all unlockable through gameplay - a refreshing throwback to a time before microtransactions.
Lost in a Beautiful World
While 'Onirism' enchants with its broad strokes, navigating its world can sometimes feel like wandering through a labyrinth without a map. The absence of a navigation system or clear objectives can leave players feeling aimless amidst the beauty. This one chink in the armor turns what should be a whimsical stroll through fantasy into a guesswork-driven trek. Nonetheless, it's a minor gripe in an otherwise stellar game that begs exploration, even if it means occasionally running in circles.
EARLY ACCESS RATING
Developer
Crimson Tales
Publisher
AB Studio
Early Accesss Release Date
April 26, 2019
Verdict: A Whimsical Odyssey Through Gunpowder and Giggles
'Onirism' proves that indie games can pack a punch that rivals, and in some cases, surpasses their mainstream counterparts. From its engaging mix of shooter and platformer elements to the beautifully rendered world of Crearia, the game is a heartfelt homage to the classics that defined our digital childhoods, all the while forging its own identity. Yes, you might get lost, but in a world this inviting, is that really a bad thing? 'Onirism' is a must-play for anyone yearning for the golden age of gaming, wrapped up in a package of modern sensibilities. Strap in for a ride that's as unpredictable as it is delightful.