Earth enjoyers ππ | Roots
3If you're over 25 and own a computer, this game is a must-have!111!!111!!!
REVIEW
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Wasn't really expecting to tackle the sub-genre that is "Snake" games today. It builds upon a simple premise and despite lack of depth, usually make up for it in charm and time-flexibility. Roots showcases this efficiently, and then some.
The premise is straightforward. Grow the root of the tree and travel as far down as possible. The objective may be basic but the gameplay compensates.
I like the methodology of this game. At the surface level, you traverse the ground deeper, collecting water to fuel distance and avoiding blockades and hazards that inconvenience you. Beyond that, the game reveals itself as a roguelike, encouraging replay value and incentivized improvements of subsequent runs via upgrades and starting benefits. The more you invest into your "character", the further you can get. Add on RNG elements where the layout is different each time and you have quite the diverse experience.
I didn't touch upon it much but I like the art-style of this game. It has that 2000's Flash aesthetic where it'd 2D and visuals are more emphasized than the gameplay. It's not insanely artistic but the drawings are nice to look at and alongside the lofi-beats on repeat, the visual and audible aroma helps to build a laid-back mood.
Nothing wrong with it but it's a curious thing to think about, that games focus on this novelty: a feeling of calm and relaxation. Most games I often interact with either for video purposes or just by myself focus on intensity or complexion. The nice thing about games though is that there are a bajillion of them, all using different genres and tropes, all enticing players in their own ways. Sometimes, a neat little enjoyable time waster is all you're in the mood for and Roots fulfilled that perfectly.