Don’t Look Back
Genre: Vaguely Metaphorical Retro 2D Platformer
Platform: Browser (Flash)
Developed By: Terry Cavanagh
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The Scoop: Don’t Look Back is a retro-style platformer that tells a story of lost love. Some insist that it’s a direct reference to the story of Orpheus, and I’m inclined to agree, although the Greek legend isn’t a 100% perfect fit.
The gameplay is intentionally 8bit and low-fi. In fact it’s probably earlier than 8bit, if we’re getting technical. All gamers will do is run, jump, and shoot. The developer does a lot which such simple gameplay building blocks, however. Which seems to be a common thread among many of the best free games out there.
The gameplay, especially towards later rooms, becomes quite challenging and leans a little too heavily on trial & error. This is offset by the fact that any time you die you restart literally only a moment prior, so no challenge is too frustrating or insurmountable.
If you feel like you’re getting stuck, I encourage you to stick with it. For one, the entire thing isn’t too long. It’s a tight little package. For another, the final moment is powerful and memorable, and the gameplay twist introduced close to the end is great.
(13 votes, average: 4.46 out of 5)
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Links:
Dev Blog
Gameplay Video
Comments
6 Responses to “Don’t Look Back”
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Oh man, this is pretty awesome. Definitely seems like an Orpheus reference.
I love these sort of faux-retro games that do awesome stuff with very simple tools.
I think the thing that gets me most is the sound effect that figures prominently in the last section. It made me take certain actions JUST so I wouldn’t hear it; and that’s not a criticism of the game.
[...] excellent, energetic 2D shooter made by the same individual that made yesterday’s free game Don’t Look Back. Impressive that Cavanagh can pull off such different genres so [...]
I loved this game, but I think much of the impact would have been lost on me if I’d read your write-up beforehand.
I think what makes it so powerful is that the player is dropped into a little world with no real idea of what the game is about or how it plays, and left to discover the play elements, story, inspiration and twist as the game unfolds. Knowing so many details in advance could detract from that experience IMO.
This was a great “coffee break” game. Interesting, atmospheric, and over in about 15 minutes (unlike Nanaca Crash which will take up the better part of a work week).
It took me a few times to realize what I was doing near the end, but once I did it was an “oooooohhhh” sort of moment. The end was particularly good. Great choice!
I wonder if the ending is different if you don’t die.