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Monochroma2014

Monochroma

2014 Nowhere Studios59Mediocre

Playtime

ShortIt typically takes about 5 hours to finish the game.

Playable on

Available on

Game modes

Details

Launch
May 28, 2014

Overview

Monochroma is a cinematic puzzle platformer that takes place in an industrial-alchemical environment. It's about being a kid, having a younger brother, growing up, falling down and solving some other puzzles.

Screenshots

Screenshot for Monochroma
Screenshot for Monochroma
Screenshot for Monochroma
Screenshot for Monochroma
Screenshot for Monochroma
Screenshot for Monochroma
Screenshot for Monochroma
Screenshot for Monochroma
Screenshot for Monochroma
Screenshot for Monochroma
Screenshot for Monochroma

Reception

It's a shame that Monochroma ended up this way, as there are sparks of brilliance buried within. There is a real quality to the sound and level design, which really add to the atmosphere and the puzzles could have been challenging with a little extra work. But the poor controls and the frequent frame-rate issues hamper this puzzle platformer.

If you've been harkening for something like Limbo, that isn't Limbo, then take a peek at Monochroma. It's a little frustrating to start off, but once you've got the nuances down then it all starts slotting together. As Nowhere Studio's first title, I can only see their future games getting better as they go.

Unfortunately, while Monochroma looks great, it doesn't play half as great.

Die-hard platforming fans will feel disappointed, and puzzlers may not feel the game is quite satisfying enough. The overall experience, however, is good enough, just. If you're the curious sort who loves a good yarn, you should give Monochroma a go; but if you find pleasure primarily in the mechanics and control of gaming, you're better off with something...

The world of Monochroma starts of promising a dystopian exploration in a silent and haunting world, but the lack of broader narrative or any kind of empathy leaves the world as devoid of life as the dystopia in which it is set. It's a world in which to dip your toes, and maybe even enjoy a short while, but it never really sticks.