Celebrating Indie Games | Downwell
Developer: Ojiro Fumoto (Moppin)
Cost: ~$4 CDN
Platforms: PS4 (2016), Switch (2019), Windows (2015), iOS (1015), Android (2016), PS Vita (2016)
Genre: Action, Adventure, Roguelike, Platformer, Shooter
Engine: GameMaker: Studio
Downwell Launch Trailer
This time I fell for an already popular game called Downwell on mobile (Android version). I found this game through Mark Brown's YouTube video where he explains the very clever dual purpose design of the game, which I highly recommend for those who are in to game design.
// Gameplay and Mechanics
Even though I don't have the game on console or PC, I think that mobile is where it's at to play this game. There are only three buttons: left button, right button, and a dual purpose jump/shoot button. You can take your time, but runs are generally quick and so maybe I'm just terrible at the game? In all seriousness, it's a straightforward game with a lot of depth. It's the perfect mix for mobile.
It's easy to understand and is addicting to try and master. Expect to be playing over and over again, going deeper and deeper into the underground world as you get better.
// Graphics, Art Style, and Sound
The game's 1-Bit art style is a throwback, is beautiful, and there are a plethora of color palettes to unlock. These color palettes much like the sound effects and soundtrack compliment the gameplay well, making the gaming experience overall rewarding.
Pastel: My Favourite Colour Palette In Downwell (so far)
// Story and Narrative
There's a bit of story going on with the game too that leaves everything up to the imagination.
// Conclusion
Again, I think Downwell is the ideal phone game. There is so much depth and replayability. Every run is different and you can really only get better.
// Video Version
Renz and Frenz
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// July Contributors
Special thank you shout out to the following ongoing generous supporters of my work and to a close friend of mine, Jason, who inspires me to do better such as how I do my game reviews. He also runs a blog reviewing games and a range of other topics, which I highly recommend checking out!
- Laura Milligan
- Jacob Huang
- Andrew Abrook
- Faiz Prasla
- Armaigne Rivero
- Joshua Ravasco