Steam Game Review: Culling of the Cows

Steam Game Review: Culling of the Cows

     As many of us are aware, the "indie developer" scene is exploding as of late when it comes to game creation. With so many independent companies trying to stake their claim in the gaming world, it's tough to keep track of games that are truly worthy of attention, versus those that are... well... just white noise. Among these developers is a company by the name of Decaying Logic, and they have created a unique take on the sidescrolling shooter with "Culling of the Cows."

     "Culling of the Cows" is game that is based around, you guessed, killing hordes of livestock that seem to have been infected or otherwise possessed by some strange force. Rather than feeding on hay or grass like their "more alive" brethren, the cattle of CotC prefer the taste of meat. Thankfully though, "God" and his newly appointed tool of destruction, Sammy, have something else in mind: to eliminate the existence of these flesh-craving, ravenous bovine zombie hordes. The entire game revolves entirely around this idea and it is very well executed in doing so.

     Through each level, the player is given the option to choose between several different types of ammo that range from the typical 12 gauge buckshot, all the way up to exploding rounds. These ammo types can be purchased with the in-game credits that are given to Sammy at the beginning of each level. Not only does Sammy old boy get credits at the start of each stage, but he also has the chance to earn more by supply drops. Supply drops give the player a random chance to get certain temporary upgrades, such as the aforementioned credits as well as ammo reloads or speed boosts just to name a few. On top of these supply drops (if the level permits) Sammy can call upon God to rain down various "miracles" which, in all honesty, is pretty much a full military arsenal to rain down death upon the infected livestock. The fun doesn't stop there though!

     Aside from all of the neat little upgrades and quirky buffs given to the player, there is also quite the selection of enemies. Some easy to kill like the typical black cow, while others... well... they need a little more "convincing" in order to admit defeat at the hands of our hillbilly protagonist. The levels are numerous and the entertainment value can be described as somewhat worthy. At times, the game will seem to get redundant, but it's definitely a must-have if you are in the mood for getting your hands dirty with a little mindless arcade "shoot to kill" action.

     As far as true replay value goes, there might be some to be considered. Given the short nature of the game, speed runs can most definitely be considered. Or... if you wanna try your hand at a perfect run on every level, that is most certainly an option as well!

   Overall, Culling of the Cows makes its unique mark on the Indie Dev world and although it is rather short in gameplay length, the features that are included make it well worth the price. Whether you are looking for a time killer, or wanting a new "speed run" challenge to compete with friends with, or even just looking for a good challenge to achieve that perfect score, CotC definitely delivers.

For more information on Culling of the Cows, or to download the game for yourself, please visit:

http://decayinglogic.com/the-culling-of-the-cows/

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Steam Game Review: Eron

Steam Game Review: Eron

     Since the blowup of the "Indie Dev" scene there have been many successes, many mediocres, and plenty of flops. In this "BTN Gaming Review" we are going focus on "Eron" by Red Splat Games which, unfortunately, falls into the category of mediocre at best.

     This game called "Eron" really strives to add a new perspective on Platform games. It does a pretty good job for the most part. It uses a feature that makes the player have to shift between realms in order to complete the levels. The controls are rather simple as it uses the keyboard arrows, space bar to jump and Shift to well... shift. Now upon first glance, it's easy to see that it is inspired by the olden times of Atari and that is a wonderful starting point. It makes the player almost feel like they are holding that oblong, awkward controller as they make their way through the levels. The "shifting" aspect of Eron is unique and it really makes the player think on how to approach each obstacle. Each movement needing to be calculated and precise, otherwise the poor tribesman of the planet is sent right back to the beginning to try it once more. Although this can be frustrating, it pays a certain homage to the games of old, which is also a nice touch.

    The overall challenge of Eron can be described as both irritating and satisfying. Games today seem to be drifting to the edge of boringly tired in order to reach out to a broader crowd. Eron, although simple, is in fact a challenge to work through and though it may get more than frustrating at times, it's exceedingly rectifying when a level is finally conquered. Combine the simple controls with this fact and there is so much potential for Eron to become a truly great game.

    Now, on to the reasons why this little game can't quite make the cut. For starters, there is very little story. The only story that the player gets is in the Steam store page and even then, it's just a little snippet. There is no true development. This is sorely detrimental because although the environment tells a little bit of that story, there's no real element of purpose as to why the protagonist needs to carry on. It slowly becomes a mundane challenge of overthinking levels and dealing with the frustrations of failing more than succeeding. By no means should the game be easier, but there should be some sort of motivation put in place for the player to feel like there is progress being made.

    While story would add some motivation to the overall gameplay, the idea of adding some sort of "enemy" or even active ability to compliment the "realm shifting" would add so much more depth to the interaction between player and environment. This in turn would help the levels fortify a story as well. From the Steam store page, the story snippet explains that Eron is being destroyed, but destroyed by what? Is it self-imploding? Is it an invasion? Is it an infestation of a nuisance gone out of control? There is nothing in the levels that clarifies this. That is why a hostile element would a welcome addition.

     The final reason as to why Eron falls short of a stellar review is the simple fact that there are numerous glitches or bad environment interactions. The idea of causing the black spheres to rocket jump the player is great, but sometimes, even though hit perfectly, there is a disconnect between the jumping player and the sphere. Add to this the fact that there are places in the game where the player can be stuck in  "permajump," unable to move whatsoever makes it difficult to play without the need to add that frustration.

     Given all of the information above, Eron has so much room to grow, and Red Splat Games has a great idea. All they need to do is expound on it and show Eron a little more love. Work out the kinks, the glitches and bugs. Try adding some sort of story-driven concept and/or possible a "hostile" environment aspect. Once those are in place and perfected, there is no doubt that Eron could be all that it was intended to be: a modern day homage to Atari Platform games.

For more information on Eron, or to buy it for yourself, please visit:

http://store.steampowered.com/app/356880

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