After the Great Ecological Catastrophe, the ultrarich flee to Mars and leave the rest to perish. But among them a small child who developed immunity to the hostile planet remains. Decades pass and those on Mars venture back to Earth to do recon. When they spot a small human child, The Cub, they immediately try to capture it. This sets off a journey of escape, exploration and discovery through the urban ruins of humanity coupled with frantic cat and mouse chases...

A challenging platformer inspired by classic SEGA games of the '90s

The Cub takes old skool 2D platformers and brings the genre up to date. At its heart this is a challenging platform parkour inspired by classic SEGA games of the '90s. You'll need to outwit evolved wildlife and dangerous hybrid flora. Crack environmental puzzles that keep you guessing. And stay one step ahead of the wicked humans who are pursuing you in a twisted apocalyptic safari hunt.

The game starts at a fairly steady pace, and slowly ramps up the challenges. It also changes environment and gameplay at numerous points, ensuring that you don't get bored of the area you're roaming around.

There are numerous branches in the levels and it's worth exploring these as there are loads of hidden collectibles scattered around. Some offer insight into the world you're in and events that have gone before.

It employs beautiful hand drawn visuals

I had a few slight criticisms. Nothing major, but things that slightly irked me for a while. Firstly, the opening levels very quickly start to feel like you're just going through the motions. There doesn't seem to be much of a challenge in the early stages and I can understand people quitting and not returning. However, stick with it and the game soon opens up.

The second slight complaint I had was how some of the levels see you having to make specific, and well timed movements. For example, there's an underground railcar segment where you have to jump from car to car; duck under low ceilings and jump to higher areas. If you fail any of these you instantly die and have to start the segment again. Only by memorising what you need to do can you progress beyond this area. It's not a huge challenge, but was a little frustrating. Thankfully the auto save points are never too far apart.

Engage in a journey through Lloyd's dreams.

The story keeps pushing you forward. I really wanted to learn more. And the soundtrack is incredibly catchy. Accompanying you on the journey is Radio Nostalgia From Mars, a custom soundtrack that’ll crash land into your psyche. Sink into thought-provoking survivor stories from the few ultrarich living on Mars, while a smooth-voiced radio DJ keeps the show moving with a collection of chill apocalypse-wave tunes.

It's cheap and uses beautifully hand drawn visuals. If you enjoy classic platform games then this brings the genre right up to date.

8

Darren Rea