Pocket Universe : Create Your Community - Early Access Watcher -
1Disclosure: This game copy was provided by the developer via Curator Connect.
I wouldn't have touched this game if not for the free code. The store page's English mixed with the promised game features set off my warning signs from a mile away. Now that I managed to give this game a try (after a crash starting a new game), I see my suspicions were accurate. Pocket Universe is essentially a civilization management simulation that offers exploration of current settlements with barebones options for your own settlement.
Visually the game is dated and the glaring stuttering issue makes it a chore to even move around (or stand still). Audio seems to randomly loop the fighting sound effects from the first (and only experienced attack) that never stops once started following the initial use. The story is incredibly short as well with the majority of the progression being made while waiting for your slow as dirt citizens gathering ingredients needed to build a blacksmith. Once you move to another settlement to further the story (that ends about two steps later), you see some of the world unfold. Move in any other direction, however, and you notice how dead the world is in terms of scenery. The map scale is huge, which means you could be walking around for miles and not see anything, only to have to walk back again. It also doesn't help that your available building options are exhausted quickly.
AI problems are plentiful with many having pathing issues. Text fails to register if you try clicking on the question prompt and the option to close out of it completely can fail numerous times. Some characters (including the main character) can get stuck in certain animations. The point I am getting at with all of this ranting: the game is pre-alpha and the numerous problems are a test to that. The main issues I have involve the headache inducing stuttering and the minimal content prolonged further by the slow resource gathering. The premise is interesting enough and the promise of the AI building their own settlements a cool feature, but I don't see that happening. I can't recommend this at the present time.