boticelly's game Reviews on Newgrounds

[Ender Story: Chapter 1]

As for an entry chapter and game mechanics demonstration this is a solid game. It's very restrained and restricted on every level: clean and seamless UI, pretty standard combat and exploration mechanics, basic story. It feels even a little too restricted at times, but it's hard to tell whether this is a drawback or part of the attempt to recreate SNES-like RPG artistic style. On that level, however, everything is done very well and functions properly. Also, there are two quite questionable design decisions that, in my opinion, can greatly worsen the overall gameplay experience. First one is somewhat overcomplicated controls: J, K and P buttons for use, cancel and menu respectively seem neither intuitive, nor practical. Why not make game controls more mouse-friendly – since mouse is already in use in the game? Other problem is a saving mechanic with very limited checkpoints. Walking back and forth in order to secure your progress feels like and unneeded and easily avoidable chore. Even if these design decisions were parts of old RPG gaming mechanics, they are definitely the ones that should be avoided or at least somewhat improved.
The lore of the game's world even at this point feels extensive, rich and is not devoid of humor. Books are well written and interesting to read, dialogs feel alive. It's pleasant to participate in something clearly created with a passion.

TheEnkian responds:

Thanks, the lore has had a lot of effort put in. Some of it is just to expand upon the world, other parts will actually come into play later. For example, maybe you'll be able to find Captain Booru's treasure in future chapters? ;)

[What Do We Do Now?]

Lovely short game. Seemingly simple in its composition, but very well designed. The opening puzzle is great: it plays with traditonal gaming convention (press the "start" button) and transforms it into the minigame in itself. The name of the game provides motivation and compensates for the lack of it's story and setting, while also making kinda ironic reamark on the very essense of any gaming experience. Sound fits perfectly and also gives an a little uncanny feeling. Overall great experience!

seanjames responds:

Thanks so much for playing and for leaving feedback. I'm glad you were able to appreciate how the title set the tone for the game... I've talked with a few people about how important that was in this instance. Since you enjoyed this, perhaps you'll be interested to know that I'm working on an greatly expanded version www.nowwhatdowedo.com (which has a new title, but keeps its purpose very much in tact while still pointing back to the original) Thanks again for playing!!!