Developers: Team Ugly
Publishers: Graffiti Games
Genre: platformer, Puzzle, Indie
Price: $19.99
Where to buy: Steam
Ugly (2023) is a puzzle platformer game developed and published by Team Ugly. It was released on September 26, 2023 for Microsoft Windows.
The game follows a tormented nobleman who must confront the traumas of his past in order to heal. Players use an innovative mirror mechanic to solve challenging puzzle rooms and defeat towering bosses. The game features a dark and twisted fairytale setting, with a story that explores themes of self-reflection and redemption.
Ugly has received positive reviews from critics, who have praised its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking story. The game has been compared to other critically acclaimed puzzle platformers such as Fez, Limbo, and Braid.
Here is a more detailed review of the game’s individual aspects:
Gameplay:
Ugly’s gameplay is centered around its innovative mirror mechanic. Players can create a shadowy reflection of themselves, which can be used to solve puzzles and navigate the environment in new ways. The mirror mechanic is used in a variety of creative ways throughout the game, and it adds a new layer of depth and complexity to the puzzle-solving.
The game’s puzzles are challenging but fair. They require players to use their logic and creativity to solve them. The game also features a number of boss battles, which are challenging but rewarding.
Visuals:
Ugly’s visuals are stunning. The game features a dark and twisted fairytale setting, with a unique art style that is both beautiful and grotesque. The game’s animations are also fluid and impressive.
Story:
Ugly’s story is dark and twisted, but it is also thought-provoking and ultimately redemptive. The game explores themes of self-reflection, trauma, and healing. The game’s story is told without any dialogue, but it is still effective in conveying its message.
Overall:
Ugly is an excellent puzzle platformer game with innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and a thought-provoking story. It is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Pros:
- Innovative mirror mechanic
- Challenging but fair puzzles
- Stunning visuals
- Thought-provoking story
Cons:
- Can be difficult at times
- Some technical issues
Overall rating: 9/10
I highly recommend Ugly to anyone who is a fan of puzzle platformer games, or who is looking for a dark and atmospheric game with a thought-provoking story.
