Just Ignore Them Review

When I think of 8-bit games I don’t think of much… I mean in today’s modern world where graphics are compared, systems are judged and hardcore mechanics are touted as superior, its hard to get a title out and make a break into gaming without some kind of blockbuster budget to work with but amongst the chaos is a simpler life, the world of pixels. Just Ignore Them, the new title from Stranga Games has used 8-bit graphics in a way I’ve never experienced before. Mix this with adult horror and a splash of comedy and you have an 8-bit game that I thoroughly enjoyed.

“Just Ignore Them is a point and click adventure horror that is mainly story driven. It contains an alterable story line which the player can control with critical choices. However, the main plot dose not change. The game is roughly a few hours long but this also depends on some of the choice you make during the game. It’s your job to discover the mystery of the invading monsters”

So as described we have a point-and-click adventure horror which starts you off as a kid in his room who cannot sleep. As you start to follow the on screen instructions and start clicking around the bedroom you notice something isn’t right, something is watching you. You start to explore the home for solutions of what to do and how to do it with speech-chat bubbles for guidance. Don’t be too hasty in clicking around as you may click on a cupboard or door that can straight up end your life. Pick up any items you see also, as the game has a system in which you can combine certain objects to create another piece of the puzzle and move forward. The puzzles are not too difficult and this game should be treated more like a movie script.

The 8-bit world really fits in with the whole horror scripted game with a retro throwback to the 80’s horror film genre, imagine Zelda on NES filled with blood, gore and even nudity. Don’t get this game mixed up with a friendly kids game though, it has adult themes and is rated as so. As this is scripted the game allows for you to make choices throughout, will you do this or will you do that will lead the player down alternate paths with a different ending.

I really enjoyed playing this title, at first I was hesitant but I gave it a go and turned out to be a rewarding experience even if the game isn’t overly long or up there graphically it shows that good story telling can still prevail when done right and with Just Ignore Them, the formula is close to spot on. I found myself drawn to the next part of the story. Will this creep get what’s coming? Will you get caught? And with the answers just around the corner I wanted to finish this game in one sitting which is entirely possible. Coupled with an original soundtrack the game boasts great story telling with a great use of an older looking technology but pulls it of quite well.

Conclusion

Just Ignore Them is a fun 8-bit adventure and a great addition to the retro point-and-click genre. Albeit a short campaign, the game shows use of a retro style mixed with a scripted horror experience can work well for the crew at Stranga Games.

This game was tested and reviewed on Xbox One. All of the opinions and insights here are subject to that version. Game provided by the publisher.