Steel Rats Review
Enjoy the ride.
Reviewed by Spectral Form
GRAPHICS
The Graphics for this game were very well done for something that is more of an Indie title. The background is set against a 1940’s almost cyberpunk setting. The detail is in all the right places, meaning the detail in each level is more dedicated to the scenery and effects that are happening than the actual character. For example, the small sparks or explosions that happen on screen are in a higher detail and blended very nicely. Which makes sense since your character is really a fraction of the size of the level. Plus, the softening on the character make sense since they are typically in motion. The only time there is a change in detail is on the character screen in which you can purchase upgrades and skins. Again, in all the right places.
SOUND
From the Motorcycle engines to explosions and music. Everything is mixed with attention to detail. The sound of cutting metal with your tires and the planks of the board walk you are going over make you feel like you are a part of the game from the audio perspective. While the music playing on the Jukeboxes has more of a 40’s/50’s rock feel. The music at the main screen and customization screen have a more modern sound of electronic music with at times trip hop sound mixed with female vocals that have an almost Bjork sound.
GAMEPLAY
The game can be played on both a keyboard or controller. My recommendation is using a controller. Since that is what I used and it did seem to offer a better sense of control. The controls are pretty easy to start with, however there may be times that you need to be pretty fast with button combinations in order to get to certain areas or escape from different Bosses. The movements from surface to surface whether it be pipes you are grinding on or the dirt paths are all very fluid with from what could be seen as no noticeable Lag at all.
OVERALL
Overall this game has a little bit of everything that has been missed in some recent years. A breath of fresh air for the more casual type of game. Although the story is not some multilayered story that will take you on the adventure of a lifetime. It is still a cool story of robot invasion that would fit perfect if you do not have time for something that like the before mentioned. If you are looking for something that will provide a challenge with interesting powerups and characters. Then look no further. Steel Rats is a great game to play when you want to chill a little bit and just play solo.