Kicking off our discussion on Scars of Mars, I’m impressed with the real-time RPG element and the customized battle formations. Now, ACQUIRE Corp has clearly made an effort to make players think on their feet with the battery drain system. However, Steam users suggest that the gaming time is surprisingly short. How have you all found this game?
Well, in terms of content, it’s true. I got through the game with around four hours of gameplay too. But I really enjoyed the complexity of the character customization. Creating diverse roles like a long-range sniper, a quick fighter or even a supportive healer added to the extra layers of strategy in the game’s combat system.
I agree on the character customization part. It indeed brings a different spin on the gameplay. But, I think the game could benefit from more exploration opportunities. ACQUIRE Corp could perhaps include more story settings, or even more locations. A feature like dungeon exploration, similar to games like Wizardry, would have added more depth and longevity to the gameplay.
Shortcomings aside, the short length of the game makes it pretty interesting for speedrunning. Quick decision-making in fights and effective utilization of the battery level can significantly cut down the completion time. I did find the slowing down battery mechanic a fun element, it added a layer of stress I actually enjoyed navigating through.
Speaking of stress, how did you find the game’s narrative? Did the overall plot and characters provide a compelling experience?
The story could use more bite. The plotline seems sparse, likely due to the game’s length. The mystery behind the research facility on Mars is intriguing, but the narrative doesn’t delve into it enough. Most of the world-building comes from the character customization, which I found engaging.
Yes, character interactions definitely drive the narrative. It doesn’t quite manage to capitalize on the rich potential of the Mars setting, which is a shame. I think there’s an opportunity for the developer to expand the universe in future updates, as the setting poses many possibilities.
Graphic wise, I think it does justice to the Martian setting. The animations are smooth, and the combat sequences are pretty thrilling. I just wish there was more variety in the environments to give a more immersive experience.
Yes, the visual aspect should help with immersion. But, let’s talk about the audio because that’s key too. Does the sound design complement the gameplay?
The audio is serviceable but not notable. There’s room for improvement, perhaps using more haunting, suspense-filled scores to reflect the urgency of the mission and the unknown dangers lurking in the facility.
Certainly, added environmental sound effects could highlight the desolation and unpredictability of Mars, thus enhancing immersion.
Regarding the game’s challenge level, it’s neither too easy nor too tough. Smart utilization of battery level, strategies, and character skills during battles can help tackle the difficulty spikes effectively.
As for replay value?
The short playtime actually helps with replayability. Players can experiment with different character builds and strategies on multiple runs. However, branching narratives or hidden side quests would really bolster this aspect.
Absolutely, additional exploratory opportunities and secret paths within the Mars facility would enhance the staying power.
I second that, the design encourages speedruns already, but adding these elements would add additional replay merit.
In closing, Scars of Mars has the makings of a complex, strategy-focused RPG. The game’s highlights lie in its strategic battles and customizations, although I’d like to see future enhancements in narrative depth, exploratory opportunities, and a boost in audio design. It will be interesting to watch how ACQUIRE Corp fine-tunes their approach for upcoming projects or potential sequels to Scars of Mars. It has the potential to carve out a unique niche in the RPG market.
