Black The Fall, Full Release (Part 1) - Early Access Watcher -
0Disclosure: This game copy was bought by the reviewer.
It has been a long road for Sand Sailor Studio, but they finally managed to release their gritty side-scrolling puzzler. With some failed time in early access, a helping hand from Square Enix and the determination to see their project to the end, it managed to reach full release in a functional state. While the length and ease of most of the puzzles might put some off purchasing at a full price, the atmosphere created by the brutal Communist regime (inspired by the Romanian regime that finally fell back in 1989) was enough to keep my interest. The disturbing environment and constant since of danger helped fuel the motivation to assist the aging machinist out of this hell.
That said, the lack of dialog means the story has to rely on the backdrops to convey the story, which it does manage to do. The story itself is simple: survive and escape. It doesn't evolve much beyond this, but that isn't necessarily a negative. Controls are functional, the lighting works and the options menu provides what is needed. I was happy to see this game finally see the light of day, but I certainly would wait for a discount if you are interested.
Side note: I apologize for the length, but sometimes the most obvious solution is right in plain sight.