Welcome to EXPlay, (Explain & Play) the review series where we care not for scores but tell it how it is when it comes to every game we get our hands on, whilst also taking the time to include some lengthy gameplay, to give you the reader, the chance to shape your own impressions and views whilst watching and reading.
In this explanatory review, we’re covering Mayhem in Single Valley by developer Fluxscopic Ltd.
Mayhem In Single Valley: (The Explanation)
Mayhem in Single Valley is a delightful and humorous action-adventure game developed by Fluxscopic Ltd. and published by tinyBuild Games. This pixelated adventure is filled with zombies, puzzles, and entertaining characters. The story follows Jack, an unfortunate young hero, as he navigates a zombie apocalypse in his hometown of Single Valley.
The game’s plot unfolds gradually introducing new abilities, items, and information to help players understand the game world. Each unique location flows smoothly, and the cryptic puzzles, although challenging and unique, become more manageable as you adapt to the developer’s mindset. There were some puzzles in the beginning that reminded me more of a point-and-click-style game where you needed to find certain items and use them on NPCs or maneuver items in the overworld to get to new heights or places.
Unlike typical zombie games, Jack is armed with a catapult, various unconventional ammunition, and a homemade remedy for the zombie plague. To cure infected creatures, including squirrels, rabbits, humans, and more, you must discover their food preferences and combine ingredients accordingly. Using your catapult, you’ll distract these creatures while progressing through the town, occasionally requiring you to manipulate objects, rescue clones, and upgrade your equipment.
The game also excels in creating a tense, claustrophobic atmosphere as you navigate tight spaces and engage in boss battles. These encounters, while initially confusing, offer rewarding solutions once deciphered. The game’s presentation is a pixelated dream, with a perfect blend of colors, character designs, and diverse environments that keep things visually appealing. The dynamic music, influenced by cassette tapes you find in the game, adds drama and atmosphere to different scenarios.
While the controls are mostly solid, the inventory management screen is cumbersome, requiring players to navigate through multiple screens to access items. The game is packed with collectibles, including clones to rescue and cassette tapes to find, with clones providing essential resources for upgrading Jack’s abilities and equipment.
In summary, Mayhem in Single Valley is a standout indie title with witty writing, engaging characters, unique environments, and intriguing puzzles. Despite minor issues like inventory management and occasional deaths, the game offers an enjoyable and entertaining experience. I wasn’t completely sold on the game at first, but as I played a bit more, I found the game’s pixel art style and world captivating to the point where seeing Jack through to the end made Mayhem in Single Valley a must-play for those looking for a fun adventure in a quirky, zombie-infested world.
Mayhem In Single Valley: (The Gameplay)
Game Specifications:
Developer: Fluxscopic Ltd
Publisher: tinyBuild Games
Platform: Nintendo Switch (eShop)
Category: Arcade, Puzzle
No. of Players: 1 (Single System)
Release Date: NA|EU: March 30, 2023
Price: $14.99
File Size: 573 MB
Nintendo.com Listing
