The world of video game graphics has witnessed a fascinating evolution over the years. While many anticipated the next big thing to be advanced technologies like ray-tracing, the latest trend in gaming graphics seems to be taking a different route – embracing janky stop motion and using plastic dolls reminiscent of childhood toys. This shift towards nostalgia and quirky visuals takes me back to the days of watching home movie recreations of famous films using stuffed animals and action figures on shows like the Adam and Joe show.
Reptilian Rising, developed by Gregarious Games and Robot Circus, is a prime example of this new approach to video game graphics. This game puts players in control of squads of wonky plastic miniatures battling evil reptilians on cardboard table-top dioramas. The characters in the game range from historical figures like Cleopatra and Winston Churchill to off-brand versions of popular characters like Marty McFly from Back To The Future.
Upon playing the Steam demo of Reptilian Rising, one cannot help but notice the charm in its retro parody style. The levels resemble tabletop wargames, evoking memories of crafting makeshift battlefields for miniature armies. While the humor in the game can be a bit over-the-top with its references and in-jokes, the gameplay itself offers a surprisingly engaging tactical experience. Players must strategically control crystals to summon reinforcements, manage Time Energy for upgrades, and contend with unpredictable power-ups and boss encounters.
The characters in Reptilian Rising each fulfill distinct roles in gameplay. From Einstein’s artillery capabilities with a beam cannon to Not-Marty McFly’s quick flanking maneuvers on a hoverboard, each character adds a unique element to the strategic depth of the game. The off-map Reptilian overlord, reminiscent of Bowser from the Super Mario movie, adds another layer of challenge by issuing orders to alter the odds in combat scenarios.
While Reptilian Rising does not have a set release date yet, it represents a shift in the gaming industry towards embracing nostalgia, humor, and unconventional graphics styles. As developers continue exploring new ways to incorporate retro elements into modern games, we may see a resurgence of interest in quirky and whimsical game designs. By striking a balance between humor and strategy, games like Reptilian Rising offer players a unique and engaging experience that transcends traditional graphic expectations.
The evolution of video game graphics is a fascinating journey that continues to surprise and delight players. Whether through nostalgic references, quirky character designs, or innovative gameplay mechanics, developers are finding new ways to push the boundaries of visual aesthetics in gaming. As we look towards the future of gaming graphics, it’s clear that embracing nostalgia and parody can lead to exciting and memorable gaming experiences for players of all ages.