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[lamaroo]

Affordable Space Adventures is an awesome name.

 

[ekgrey]

Hmmm...this looks better than I expected (based on zero knowledge or exposure, whatever...hooray assumptions!)

I can't really justify a $20 impulse buy right now, but I'm adding it to the wishlist.

 

[Converse]

Thanks for starting the thread, dancrane. I've been a proponent of this one from the beginning, so I thought I'd pass along a few other reviews that have popped up.

Nintendo Enthusiast 9/10

Affordable Space Adventures shows why the Wii U GamePad exists: to provide an experience that can only be done on the console. Take the plunge, spend the $20, and get lost in the world of Spectaculon to play one of the finest Wii U titles to date.

DreamcastGuy 8.8/10

This is a rare gem that'll make you want to laugh out loud, and will also make you want to shout with triumph after beating a really tough problem. [...] The perfect use for the Wii U GamePad. [...] the most immersive experience I've had on the Wii U thus far.

Always Nintendo 7/10

Like every other game, it's not for everyone. So, for those interested in the game, I would say "buy it." For those on the fence, I would recommend you wait for a price drop or a sale.

Man, Nintendo really seemed to promote this game in previews -- no offense to enthusiast sites, but I'm surprised it's not getting covered by more large-scale outlets. I'll continue to keep an eye out.

 

[TheMoon]

but I'm surprised it's not getting covered by more large-scale outlets. I'll continue to keep an eye out.

Why are you surprised? They still don't know that there are indie games out on Nintendo systems. Let alone exclusives. Let alone good ones worth fucking looking at. After all, "nintendo is finally starting to court indies and trying to catch up."

 

[dancrane212]

Thanks for starting the thread, dancrane. I've been a proponent of this one from the beginning, so I thought I'd pass along a few other reviews that have popped up.

Nintendo Enthusiast 9/10



DreamcastGuy 8.8/10



Always Nintendo 7/10



Man, Nintendo really seemed to promote this game in previews -- no offense to enthusiast sites, but I'm surprised it's not getting covered by more large-scale outlets. I'll continue to keep an eye out.

Thanks. First one is a banned site though.

 

[TheMoon]

Thanks. First one is a banned site though.

Use tinyurl or any other shortener. Who cares if the site is banned, we're not posting rumors.

 

[Converse]

Why are you surprised? They still don't know that there are indie games out on Nintendo systems. Let alone exclusives. Let alone good ones worth fucking looking at. After all, "nintendo is finally starting to court indies and trying to catch up."

I get that misguided mentality -- I guess it's more a disappointment than a surprise. Nintendo seems to have worked with the devs to give it a good push, and thus far only two major sites have given it a review. Maybe we'll see some more coverage from the smaller sites that didn't get preview codes come Thursday.

Thanks. First one is a banned site though.

Sure thing, you're welcome (didn't know about the banned site).

 

[jariw]

Man, Nintendo really seemed to promote this game in previews -- no offense to enthusiast sites, but I'm surprised it's not getting covered by more large-scale outlets. I'll continue to keep an eye out.

IGN put a review of Stealth Inc. 2 on their site something like two months after its release.

 

[Converse]

IGN put a review of Stealth Inc. 2 on their site something like two months after its release.

Ha. How odd.

Anyway, two more enthusiast sites have posted up reviews -- a 9/10 from Nintendo Insider and an 8.5/10 from Pure Nintendo.

 

[KingSnake]

Another review from vandal.net - 9.2.

The conclusion is that despite the high price for a downloadable game that last over 5 hours, he recommends it for being visually striking, having perfect sound and above all so many gameplay innovations. Probably the game that surprised him most this year. Highly recommended.

 

[Converse]

TwoDashStash.com doesn't give a numbered score, but their review lists pros (puzzles, sense of progression, visuals) and cons (some frustrating deaths/puzzles), concluding with "In the end though, Affordable Space Adventures is very much a trip worth taking."

 

[Storm Kyleis]

This is sooo good. Such a pleasant surprise.

I got strong Portal vibes from it, it's a sci-fi puzzle game with very original mechanics and an astounding attention for detail. The atmosphere is mysterious and charming.

I'm 2/3 into it, and so far it's one of my favourite experiences on eShop. Definitely worth checking out.

 

[Converse]

Two new reviews from some larger sources (hope this isn't getting annoying, it's become a nice distraction as I work).

Game Informer 8/10

Affordable Space Adventures is a great puzzle game, and it uses the GamePad in interesting ways that don’t feel like gimmicks. It shows Nintendo isn’t the only studio capable of doing interesting things with an additional screen. It’s nice to see the Wii U become home to a truly exclusive title trying to do something different.

Metro.co.uk 7/10

One of the best uses of the Wii U GamePad so far and one of the most atmospheric games of the year, even if it does run out of new tricks before the end.

And another:

Digital Chumps 8.2/10

One part hysterical, one part horrifying, all parts engrossing: "Affordable Space Adventures" is every bit worthy of consideration as the next addition to your Wii U digital library. If the idea of playing video games in a way you probably never have before – whether alone or with pals – sounds fun to you, it’s a must-experience title that you’ll remember long after you’ve traversed your way through it.

 

[CaVaYeRo]

So, what I'm getting from the review so far is that it's a fantastic experience co-op, but solo less so?

Hmmm not at all! Awesome, fresh, unique solo experience, I can tell you. It's fun co-op, but you know, it's great to (try and) keep everything under your control, as a lonely, adventurous explorer.

 

[KingSnake]

Gametrailers have a very nice discussion and overview about the game.

http://www.gametrailers.com/videos/19xvfw/affordable-space-adventures-affordable-space-adventures

 

[DarkCronos]

http://ilovevg.it/recensioni/affordable-space-adventures/

My review on I Love Videogames (italian site).

- Excellent atmosphere and design
- Fully built around the GamePad
- Single player and multiplayer are two different but equally good experiences

- Long loading times
- High Price

9/10

 

[TheMoon]

Affordable Space Adventures |OT| is live, btw.

 

[Davey Cakes]

Affordable Space Adventures is an awesome name.

I agree.

I'm also intrigued by the prospect of co-op. Sounds like fun.

 

[KingSnake]

http://www.meristation.com/nintendo-wii-u/affordable-space-adventures/analisis-juego/1960655 - 8.6

 

[Taxman]

Some more reviews:
Brash Games: 7/10

Affordable Space Adventures does offer a good amount of gameplay, but ironically at a strangely expensive price. At £16.99 it does seem a bit steep, especially when most digital-only games are sub-£15, but puzzle fans will definitely get their money’s worth. Hopefully more developers will take note of Knapnok Games’ use of the WiiU Gamepad though, and finally stop using it as a simple menu or map screen, instead using it to its full potential.

Coin-Op.tv: liked it? (no score)

Affordable Space Adventures walks a fine line between frustrating puzzler and perfect brain teaser. A permeating sense of wonder definitely helps, even as some of the puzzles become increasingly difficult. This is one of the only games on the Wii U so far that I feel could not have been accomplished without the gamepad. Not only is the HUD position a wonderful idea I’d love to see replicated in the future, but the touch controls are implemented well without feeling forced. While it’s pretty short, the multiplayer adds more than enough replay value. It’s a love letter to space that didn’t overstay its welcome.

Eurogamer: recommended

What an intoxicating place it is to spend a few hours, too. There are rough edges aplenty, but while the world Affordable Space Adventures conjures is never quite pretty it's certainly immersive, one which draws you in as you struggle in the space between the main screen and the GamePad. This is one of those rare games that could only ever be possible on the Wii U, and if you've any measure of affection or interest in Nintendo's console and what it's capable of, you owe it to yourself to check it out.

Edit - another one:
About.com: 4.5/5

ASA is one of those occasional games, like Rayman Legends or ZombiU, that makes you realize what the Wii U could be if developers chose to see its gamepad as an opportunity rather than as a weird gimmick to be coped with. Nifflas and Knapnok understand the Wii U in a way few other game makers do, and playing this engaging but sleight game makes me wonder what the partnership could achieve with an AAA budget.

Ironically, Affordable Space Adventures is a game about desperately wanting to escape a planet that I would have liked to spend a lot more time on.

 

[KingSnake]

Godisageek - 9/10

The bulk of Affordable Space Adventures doesn’t look fantastic, either. Dark and oppressive at times, just you armed with a flashlight, the atmosphere is deliberately set against the jovial video messages from the tourist agency, but several levels towards the end show just how good-looking it can be, bright and colourful, and it feels a shame the whole package couldn’t be like this.

This really is nitpicking though. Affordable Space Adventures is exactly what the Wii U was designed for: a clever little puzzler that uses the GamePad to the best of its abilities. Arguably mapping functions to buttons could mean it could be played on PC, or on a 3DS, but something would certainly be lost in the translation. For the first time the Wii U has something truly unique, and for that reason alone means that this is well worth your time.

POSITIVES
Best use of GamePad to date.
Constantly mixes up the puzzles.
Feels like your own mini-Enterprise.

NEGATIVES
Not the best looker.
Occasionally signposts what you’ll need next.
Multitasking can get too much.

 

[Converse]

Glad to see more reviews rolling in. Here are a couple additions:

Attack of the Fanboy 4.5/5

Affordable Space Adventures truly takes advantage of the uniqueness of the Wii U, and it is all the better for it. Few games have felt this distinct, while also remaining fun and enjoyable. The campaign doesn’t last too long, but what time you can spend in it will truly satisfy, and if you bring some friends along it only gets better. If you own a Wii U and have been starving for new games, then you owe it to yourself to pick up Affordable Space Adventures.

Slant Magazine (no score)

ASA is a rare exception: a small developer using Nintendo's unique hardware to create something not possible on any other system, while providing hardcore gamers with the kind of challenging, intense experience that Nintendo mostly doesn't bother with.

(The above -- while well-written and positive -- is kind of a weird review that, in my opinion, isn't up to speed on the eShop indie scene. But there you have it.)

Coin-Op.TV (no score)

Affordable Space Adventures walks a fine line between frustrating puzzler and perfect brain teaser. A permeating sense of wonder definitely helps, even as some of the puzzles become increasingly difficult. This is one of the only games on the Wii U so far that I feel could not have been accomplished without the gamepad.

 

[Exile20]

Destructoid - 9 /10

Superb: A hallmark of excellence. There may be flaws, but they are negligible and won't cause massive damage to what is a supreme title. Check out more reviews or the Destructoid score guide.

oh already posted.

 

[jaina]

[
oh already posted.

Doesn't change that the game seems to be great

 

[KooopaKid]

Crossposting:

http://www.gamekult.com/jeux/test-affordable-space-adventures-J3050230112t.html#wues

7 from Gamekult (Let's say the French EDGE equivalent)

Not much negatives to complain about honestly.

 

[bryehn]

$25, eh? How long is this thing? Looks pretty cool.

 

[AcademicSaucer]

Gametrailers have a very nice discussion and overview about the game.

http://www.gametrailers.com/videos/19xvfw/affordable-space-adventures-affordable-space-adventures

thanks, will see it when I get home

 

[KooopaKid]

Technobuffalo: BUY

http://www.technobuffalo.com/reviews/affordable-space-adventures-review/

Gamingtrend: 80 GREAT

http://gamingtrend.com/reviews/adventure-on-a-budget-affordable-space-adventures-review/

 

[Davey Cakes]

Played this with my brother last night. I was pilot, he was engineer.

It was fun to coordinate. I liked how I controlled the scanner and flares but the engineer had to aim. Kind of cool having to ask the engineer to enable and disable systems, especially when it comes to controlling the ship's heat levels.

We're going to switch roles next time!

I wasn't big on the slow start, as in the very beginning when you start going under the planet's surface. Wasn't that interesting of a descent. Once the puzzles get going though, there's fun to be had.

The presentation is top notch, as well. I love the advertisements, postcards, manual pages, etc.

 

[TheMoon]

$25, eh? How long is this thing? Looks pretty cool.

|OT| here -> http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=1026022

 

[Aiustis]

ooh love those reviews very informative. TBH I've been waiting so long I forgot about this game until I saw this thread. Will buy tonight.

 

[mclem]

Glad to hear that it sounds to be a high quality game, but that name really doesn't do it any favors. I think a lot of people are hearing the name and thinking it's a throwaway mobile game.

It's interesting, because I love titles that convey an idea of a product or service, but that's always going to run the risk of that confusion; the idea that the reference to the story is instead referring to the game.

Frobozz Magic Support sprang instantly to mind.

 

[KingSnake]

The Guardian - 5/5

While even Nintendo’s finest have failed to grasp fully their peculiar hardware’s curious bag of tricks, Danish developer KnapNok Games has crafted a bespoke experience that integrates every hardware quirk available – gyroscope, dual-screen gameplay, elegant touch-screen controls, asymmetric multiplayer… heck, even Miiverse gets a moment of glory. Affordable Space Adventures isn’t a game that works on Wii U; it’s a game that could only work on Wii U.

Topped off with a dark humour, Affordable Space Adventures is a unique and charming package and the perfect advert for Nintendo’s machine.

 

[jariw]

Apparently, EDGE #280 apparently gave ASA a good score (much better than Codename S.T.E.A.M. got.) I haven't read the review myself, I just saw a note about it at NE:
http://nintendoeverything.com/edge-280-review-scores/

 

[KooopaKid]

Deserved. The GameSpot review hasn't been posted yet :

http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/affordable-space-adventures-review/1900-6416111/

8/10

 

[KingSnake]

Some more reviews, pretty glowing:

http://www.forbes.com/sites/andyrobertson/2015/04/28/affordable-space-adventures-review/

Controls, visuals, game-play and team work combine to recreate that buzz of excitement I remember from watching Star Trek as a child. The thrill of a small craft making a difference in the vastness of space. It’s something that’s been done before by the likes of Artemis Spaceship Bridge Simulator, but here it’s accessible and fun and doesn’t require a bank of computers to run.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/sc-cons-0430-game-review-20150430-story.html

5/5

While the game works well as a single-player experience, it truly stands out with up to three players. With multiple players, "Affordable Space Adventures" splits up the ship's controls among the group. The player with the GamePad is still responsible for monitoring and adjusting the systems, but another player gets to actually fly the ship while the third manages the vital flashlight and flare-launching functions. With a full crew, players must coordinate and communicate with each other to solve the puzzles. This simultaneously adds to the game's "we're all in trouble and alone" vibe and provides great excuses for chucking couch pillows at each other when somebody fails to perform.

FamilyGamerTV - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bLWqmU_bEg

Affordable Space Adventures is a unique experience that you can only find on the Wii U, and it utilizes the system in a thoughtful and creative way. It’s great to see what small developers are doing with the system, and I hope that more games like this come out in the future.

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-s...lways-wanted-to-be-an-astronaut-10195849.html

4/5

KnapNok have implemented what is possibly the best use of the Wii U GamePad since ZombiU, showing what an indie developer with vision can bring to the console by delivering something that even Nintendo themselves have frequently failed at - an experience that can only really be provided by the unique setup of the Wii U.

Metacritic is at 81.