UFO 50 Offers a Unique Take on Retro Gaming
As an adult gamer, one might assume I have a soft spot for vintage video games, but that’s not the case. My childhood was filled with excitement for any video game experience, even the less-than-stellar ones. However, “UFO 50” changes this dynamic entirely. Originally launched on PC last year and recently adapted for the Switch and Switch 2 on August 7, this distinctive indie game presents a collection of 50 fictional “retro” games that never actually existed.
A Nostalgic Collection with a Modern Twist
“UFO 50” is a compilation of imagined retro games that mimic the aesthetics of titles from the Apple II, Amiga, and NES eras, all while incorporating contemporary gameplay mechanics. Unlike many pixel-art indie games such as “Stardew Valley” or “Dave the Diver,” these games utilize only two buttons and a directional pad, enhancing the authenticity of the classic gaming experience. However, this design choice means that “UFO 50” may not appeal to everyone. To truly appreciate this collection, players need a genuine interest in the gaming world. While this may sound elitist, the assortment serves as both a tribute to a significant period in video game history and a reimagining that integrates modern concepts.
A Perfect Fit for the Switch Family
Despite its initial PC release, “UFO 50” feels exceptionally suited for the Switch and Switch 2 platforms. The Switch has established itself as a stronghold for indie titles, and Mossmouth’s compilation harmonizes beautifully with this legacy. The collection’s 50 games provide quick, engaging experiences—ideal for short gaming sessions, such as during a bathroom break. Most importantly, these games thrive on handheld devices, evoking the nostalgic coziness of curling up on the couch with a classic portable game.
How Many Games Are Included?
True to its name, “UFO 50” features 50 distinct games, plus one hidden bonus title. Each game stands on its own, although some share gameplay mechanics or story elements. The collection is presented as a catalog for a fictional console known as the LX, produced by the imaginary UFO Soft. In actuality, developer Mossmouth, led by “Spelunky” creator Derek Yu, claims to have discovered this catalog in an abandoned warehouse and released it for modern consoles, interweaving various mismatched games into a coherent timeline of lore.
Diverse Genres and Gameplay Innovations
The game’s selection screen allows players to explore deeper into each of the 50 titles, all purportedly developed in the mid-1980s and inspired by everything from films to local news stories to even a developer’s pet. The collection encompasses genres popular during that time, including platformers, racing games, and a variety of puzzles, each infused with a unique twist. For instance, “Bushido Ball” echoes classic retro games and plays similarly to the Neo-Geo title “Windjammers,” but with a samurai theme. “Fist Hell” offers a challenging beat ’em up experience against zombies, where enemies are programmed to exploit specific angles.
Additionally, some games take modern genres and reimagine them with a retro flair. “Rock On Island” is a tower defense game featuring cavemen and dinosaurs, so reminiscent of the old-school era that it could easily be mistaken for a long-lost international release. “Night Manor,” a point-and-click adventure reminiscent of classics like “Shadowgate,” adds chase sequences and hiding mechanics to enhance gameplay.
Mixed Impressions on Gameplay
While many titles in “UFO 50” are enjoyable, a few did not resonate with me, particularly those in genres I typically find less appealing, even with updated graphics. For example, “Camouflage” feels more like a large puzzle than a traditional stealth game, while “Mooncat” alters typical platforming controls in a way that can be quite disorienting.
A Unique and Engaging Experience
Describing “UFO 50″ as exceptional is an understatement. While it may not become my all-time favorite game or even my game of the year, the collection stimulates my nostalgia, merging the aesthetics of childhood gaming with innovative modern elements. It satisfies my craving for nostalgia while simultaneously catering to my desire for fresh experiences, with a vast catalog of games that offers varied session lengths. Whether I play for just a few minutes or several hours, this collection remains enticing enough to revisit even a year later.
Some players may not appreciate its retro graphics, simplified controls, or basic narratives, and that’s perfectly acceptable. Yet, for anyone curious about the core appeal of video games—from the compelling elements that keep us engaged to the very essence of play—”UFO 50” provides a fascinating exploration. For owners of the Switch 2 seeking engaging gameplay during quieter moments, “UFO 50” offers an excellent value at just $25.
