Summary
Transistor continues
the success of Supergiant Games in a similar style to Bastion – the
highly acclaimed 2011 Game of the Year. Transistor combines fun
gameplay and combat, with an immersive and creative storyline that
makes you want to keep playing. While the initial playthrough only
lasts around 5-10 hours, players can sidetrack with challenge quests,
backstory, and of course New Game Plus (which will be necessary for
any trophy hunters among us). This is a highly memorable gaming
experience, which I would strongly recommend to all gamers.
Supergiant Games has proven that it is certainly one to keep an eye
on in future.
Gameplay
Transistor's gameplay
is comprised of top down adventuring and combat. The story will see
you discovering your way through the remarkably intriguing city of
Cloudbank in a desperate attempt to stop the 'process'. Without
saying too much, the enemies you face will be both diverse and
exciting – constantly requiring you to re-evaluate your play style
and choices. Combat is carried out in phases, during which the player
can freely decide on movement and actions, which all consume
'planning points'. Actions and movements can be reset at any time
during the planning phase, or the current plan can be forfeited all
together. This adds an interesting element of gameplay, and a welcome
addition to the 'real-time combat' which players start off using.
Towards the end of the story a well structured plan is necessary to
survive.
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| Transistor's combat allows the player to plan moves even during combat |
Storyline
Players will follow the
story of 'Red' as she fights her way through Cloudbank, wielding the
peculiar Transistor blade in an attempt to stop the ruthless
'process' – an enemy which threatens to wipe out everything. The
plot is both captivating and interesting, and is augmented by the
beautiful art style recognisable by any Bastion fans. There is a
large amount of backstory available for those interested, and should
easily keep most players hooked throughout.
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| There are a number of moves or 'functions' in Transistor. All of which can be mixed for different combinations of active, upgrade, and passive effects |
Sound
The soundtrack in this
game is definitely one of the major strong points, and really seems
to work well with the plot throughout. It is a stylish, funky, and
atmospheric soundtrack which keeps you engaged during the combat
phases, and cut scenes. There is a voice-over dialogue narrating your
actions throughout the game, much the same as in Bastion. While some
may find this frustrating, it actually works very well with the style
of the game, and plays an integral part of the plot. In some cases
the narration actually changes depending upon your choices too.
Overall score: 9/10
Good
- Beautiful art style
- Fun and intuitive combat system
- Interesting and creative plot
- Excellent soundtrack
Bad
- Combat tutorial is very brief and some beginners may find it difficult to grasp
- Some players may find the narrator off-putting
