UFO 50: A Unique Take on Retro Gaming
As an avid gamer, one might assume I have a particular affection for classic video games. However, that’s not the case for me. Growing up, the mere act of engaging with any video game was thrilling, regardless of its quality. Enter UFO 50, a game that redefines expectations. Originally launched on PC last year, this innovative indie game has recently made its way to the Switch and Switch 2 on August 7. What sets it apart is its collection of 50 fictional retro games that never existed before.
A Nostalgic Collection with a Modern Twist
UFO 50 comprises a series of imagined retro games designed to evoke the look and feel of titles from the Apple II, Amiga, and NES era, while integrating contemporary gameplay mechanics. Unlike many pixel-art indie games like Stardew Valley or Dave the Diver, these games utilize a straightforward two-button control scheme and a directional pad, enhancing the authenticity of the old-school experience.
Not for Everyone
Due to its unique approach, UFO 50 may not resonate with everyone. To truly appreciate this collection, players must possess a genuine interest in gaming culture. While that may come off as a bit elitist from a review standpoint, the compilation serves as both a tribute to a significant period in video game history and a reimagining that incorporates modern concepts.
Perfectly Suited for the Switch
Although UFO 50 made its debut on PC, it feels particularly well-suited for the Switch and Switch 2 platforms. The Switch has long been a popular destination for indie titles, and the collection from developer Mossmouth seamlessly fits into that niche. The 50 games offered provide excellent quick-play opportunities, allowing players to complete a race or level in a matter of minutes—making it an ideal choice for short gaming sessions. More significantly, these titles are enhanced on a smaller screen, evoking a cozy, retro atmosphere reminiscent of lounging on the couch with classic handheld games.
What’s Included in the Collection?
As the title implies, UFO 50 features 50 games, plus one hidden title. Each game is distinct, although some share gameplay mechanics and a few are interconnected. The collection is presented as a catalog for a fictional gaming system, the LX console, purportedly created by the also fictional UFO Soft. In an imaginative twist, the game’s developer Mossmouth—led by Derek Yu, the mind behind Spelunky—claims to have “discovered” this catalog in a deserted warehouse, releasing it for modern consoles and weaving a rich tapestry of lore among the games.
Diverse Genres and Unique Gameplay
The collection showcases various genres that were popular during the 1980s, including platformers, racing games, and puzzles, each infused with a unique twist. For instance, Bushido Ball echoes the classic gameplay of retro titles, resembling the Neo-Geo game Windjammers but featuring samurai characters. Fist Hell offers a beat ’em up experience akin to Final Fight, complete with zombies and strategically programmed enemy behavior for an added challenge.
Modern Genres with a Retro Flair
Some titles in UFO 50 reimagine modern game genres with a retro aesthetic. Rock On Island presents a tower defense scenario with cavemen and dinosaurs, so authentic in its old-school vibe that it feels like a lost international release. Night Manor offers a point-and-click adventure reminiscent of Shadowgate or Uninvited, complete with chase sequences and hiding mechanics.
Mixed Impressions on Certain Titles
While many of the games in UFO 50 are enjoyable, a few did not resonate with me, particularly those in genres I typically don’t favor, even with updated graphics. Camouflage, for example, leans more towards a large puzzle experience than a traditional stealth game, while Mooncat alters standard platforming controls in a perplexing manner.
UFO 50: A Remarkable Experience
Describing UFO 50’s uniqueness is challenging. Will it become my all-time favorite game or even my game of the year? Probably not. However, I appreciate how the games stimulate my mind by fusing nostalgic visuals with clever modern elements. It satisfies my desire for nostalgia while also catering to my curiosity for innovation, and the extensive catalog of 50 games offers a variety of experiences. Some gaming sessions lasted just 10-15 minutes, while others extended for hours, making it the kind of collection that could be revisited in a year, yet still beckons me to play whenever I have a moment to spare.
Finding Appeal in Nostalgia
Some players may not find the charm in UFO 50, which is understandable. The retro graphics, straightforward controls, and simplistic narratives can be off-putting for some. Nevertheless, for those who have ever pondered what draws them to video games—be it the addictive gameplay or the essence of play itself—UFO 50 invites exploration. For those who own a Switch 2 and seek an engaging title during quieter gaming times, UFO 50 offers substantial value at an appealing price of $25.
