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[Toma]

Desura link: http://www.desura.com/games/cubesis
Genre: Puzzle/Strategy
Price: $4,99
Worth it? Yes

For impressions, links, gameplay hints etcetc, feel free to ask here, as I have played this game quite a bit when I found it on Desura. On another note, the dev behaviour regarding feedback and development suggestions were quite amazing, which is part of the reason I feel strongly about supporting this dev. Since the initial release, the game has been improved a LOT, through several suggestions me and others were making, including adding whole feature sets like waypoints, level adjustments or adding a whole campaign. The devs really deserve a shoutout for this.

Why do I recommend it?

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Impressions
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I am enjoying this game immensely because of its level structure. I expected more of a simulation type game, but what it feels like is more of a very accessable turn based puzzle game with simulation game mechanics. Its hard to describe, because Cubesis is quite... unusual and wacky (in a good way). You are building buildings, growing crops and terraforming the land by sacrificing your villagers, which you are gaining via keeping your city healthy, supported with food, not flooded and not frozen over. The game mechanics are rather simple while also offering enough depth to be interesting, for example taking care of the temperature or sea level by appeasing gods to allow for walking on the ground of the sea or to water fields to allow for growing crops.
Cubesis is quite a bit less complex than "proper" simulation games, but the Cubesis developers knew how to play to their strength. Instead of a huge focus on randomized Free Play (where they cant possibly compete with something like Banished which is way more intricate, but is still being offered as an extra level), they have 24 levels (including the tutorial levels) that need to be conquered and I am incredibly enjoying terraforming the land to achieve the goals set in each level. Banished is very likely the objectively better game, but for the time being and until I solve all the levels, I am enjoying Cubesis quite a bit more. I checked it out yesterday and couldnt stop playing until 4 hours later.

Alright, I put a little bit of time into this last night (thanks, Toma!) and admittedly didn't get too far in but I was having a lot of fun with it and I'm only nearing the end of the tutorial. I can already tell it's going to be way deeper than what I see now and can't see what else they add to the game over as I keep going along. At first it really didn't click but suddenly when I got the weather vane I started to see how this is going to be really difficult going forward. I actually can't wait to get some more free time to see how this game fleshes out and think if people are attracted to the art style or the synopsis (it is a God Sim Puzzle game) then people should really give this game a try.

I've only played some of the tutorial so far, and it seems to have a ton of potential as a great puzzle game. Looking forward to exploring it further. Definitely could use some hotkeys for the building options though. Unless I'm missing something here.

Played a bunch this morning, gonna play a ton more later tonight and tomorrow. Really really enjoying it!
Will post my actual impressions in a few days but a quick spoiler says that they will be very positive!

And an amateurish YT video I made of the gameplay with some control explanations:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZBhqVvF-O6E

Steam?
The game is currently not on Greenlight, because the devs dont think they have enough attention to get enough votes. I suggested the devs to try anyway, if only for the publicity they get from the Greenlight crowd/service, let the devs know if you agree with me and if you want this game on Steam! I'll forward this thread to the devs, lets hope the IGS deal gives this thread and them enough attention to warrant exposing this very interesting game to Steam.

 

[toythatkills]

I'm in.

 

[Toma]

Forgot to mention, but if some people decide to buy it, it would be great to read some more impressions other than my own, because most people probably wont rely on a single opinion.

Or maybe you all disagree with me on this one, who knows

 

[derExperte]

Steam?
The game is currently not on Greenlight, because the devs dont think they have enough attention to get enough votes. I suggested the devs to try anyway, if only for the publicity they get from the Greenlight crowd/service, let the devs know if you agree with me and if you want this game on Steam! I'll forward this thread to the devs, lets hope the IGS deal gives this thread and them enough attention to warrant exposing this very interesting game to Steam.

I don't see why this wouldn't have a solid chance getting greenlit, I know there's so much crap to wade through but eventually most of the deserving games make it sooner or (okay, sometimes much) later. And the Greenlight button alone is enough for some people to pull the trigger during these pwyw sales as long as the game doesn't look like utter trash.

 

[Caerith]

Steam?
The game is currently not on Greenlight, because the devs dont think they have enough attention to get enough votes. I suggested the devs to try anyway, if only for the publicity they get from the Greenlight crowd/service, let the devs know if you agree with me and if you want this game on Steam! I'll forward this thread to the devs, lets hope the IGS deal gives this thread and them enough attention to warrant exposing this very interesting game to Steam.

This looks like it would be perfect on Steam, especially with achievements. And, like derExperte said, the Greenlight button is a powerful motivator.

 

[MikeDip]

Game looks really good, gonna watch that video and probably buy it when I get back home.

 

[pdk27]

Subscribed to this thread and will wait for further opinions. Definitely sounds interesting.

 

[PandaPedinte]

As always good work in bringing these games to GAF's attention.

 

[Toma]

As always good work in bringing these games to GAF's attention.

Not much attention so far, but maybe the thread picks up a bit once people started the game and have some opinions or questions.

 

[Toma]

Just as an example what I like so much about this game: They created a very diverse set of interesting challenges. I liked this one a lot, which tasked you to build and survive on a mini island:

 

[More_Badass]

Saw your post over in the Indie thread, I'd like to try the game. Never really got a grasp on the mechanics from the trailer and screenshots

 

[Mavromatis]

A populous revival? Nice!
Anyway they should get in Greenlight, devs add their games to Greenlight for more exposure. And this will really get some votes.

 

[Ingueferroque]

I'd love a key for this, it looks right up my alley and I absolutely love how the UI looks! Gorgeous.

 

[Toma]

Saw your post over in the Indie thread, I'd like to try the game. Never really got a grasp on the mechanics from the trailer and screenshots

Sent you a key.

A populous revival? Nice!
Anyway they should get in Greenlight, devs add their games to Greenlight for more exposure. And this will really get some votes.

Thats actually an interesting comparison, and I can definitely see some inspiration here and there. I'll definitely let the dev know about the people asking for Greenlight in here, so keep voicing your opinion to tip them over.

 

[Ingueferroque]

They should really put it on Greenlight so I can vote.

 

[Vlad]

A populous revival? Nice!
Anyway they should get in Greenlight, devs add their games to Greenlight for more exposure. And this will really get some votes.

Yeah, completely agreed. I haven't browsed a whole lot through the Greenlight submissions (not enough hours in the day, etc), but this looks better than most of the stuff thrown up there. It's one of those things were so many people won't even look at a game if it's not on Steam, so may as well take a stab at putting it up there.

Still, I'd be curious to check it out if there are any keys still kicking around (wandered over from the Steam thread, ironically enough).

 

[Toma]

I'd love a key for this, it looks right up my alley and I absolutely love how the UI looks! Gorgeous.

Sent you a key too.

 

[Mavromatis]

Thats actually an interesting comparison, and I can definitely see some inspiration here and there. I'll definitely let the dev know about the people asking for Greenlight in here, so keep voicing your opinion to tip them over.

Maybe they can partner up with WGN or similar, or do some promotional giveaways. I know that these sway many votes in Greenlight.

I looked for the authors email on the website but couldn't find it, I would send him/her a mail to ask for a Greenlight application.

Also I must say that every time I see you around I remember the monthly indie game thread and your tireless effort, and in comparison me not playing enough indie games

 

[chrominance]

Oh Jesus, another Toma recommendation that I will totally end up buying. I'm sold.

 

[platypotamus]

I have no time to try this currently with work/moving/whatever, but I want it in the future and would vote for it on Greenlight

 

[daydream]

I'll take you up on your generous offer, Toma, thanks!

Will definitely write something up once I've put some time into it.

 

[besada]

No Mac version. Looked interesting.

 

[Toma]

Maybe they can partner up with WGN or similar, or do some promotional giveaways. I know that these sway many votes in Greenlight.

I looked for the authors email on the website but couldn't find it, I would send him/her a mail to ask for a Greenlight application.

Also I must say that every time I see you around I remember the monthly indie game thread and your tireless effort, and in comparison me not playing enough indie games

Haha, no need to feel bad. Way too many Indies to cover them all, even I can only shout about so many games on here, before needing to devote some time my real life issues

Oh and you can throw the dev a message on the Desura comments for the game:
http://www.desura.com/games/cubesis

Thats how I got in contact with him too, and I know they read all of them.

 

[Toma]

I'll take you up on your generous offer, Toma, thanks!

Will definitely write something up once I've put some time into it.

Still, I'd be curious to check it out if there are any keys still kicking around (wandered over from the Steam thread, ironically enough).

Keys sent.

 

[Toma]

No Mac version. Looked interesting.

Now that you mention it.. apparently the game was made in Game Maker, and Game Maker does offer Mac exports. Weird. Going to ask the dev about this. I'll send you a PM if I get news thats relevant for you.

 

[Mavromatis]

Haha, no need to feel bad. Way too many Indies to cover them all, even I can only shout about so many games on here, before needing to devote some time my real life issues

Oh and you can throw the dev a message on the Desura comments for the game:
http://www.desura.com/games/cubesis

Thats how I got in contact with him too, and I know they read all of them.

Well I did my part, hope they'll consider it.

 

[Impeccable]

This sounds really interesting.

I'd love to try it if you have any keys remaining!

 

[Horp]

Cube game + God game. Is this a Peter Molyneux game?

 

[Toma]

This sounds really interesting.

I'd love to try it if you have any keys remaining!

Key sent!

Cube game + God game. Is this a Peter Molyneux game?

This game is better than it seemed at first, so no, not a Molyneux game

 

[Dicer]

Would love to give this a go, Linux version?!?!?!

 

[Toma]

Would love to give this a go, Linux version?!?!?!

I'll ask the dev why the other platforms arent supported yet/if there are any plans, should have an answer by tomorrow.

 

[Toma]

Just because its been asked multiple times already, the keys given out currently are IndieGameStand keys, and you can access the installer from your wallet there.

 

[Darth Kupi]

Well if it has the Toma stamp of approval I must try it.

I'd like a key if available.

 

[Dice]

I like this concept and execution as well as Spy Chameleon, and they are so different from each other. That gives me a good vibe about the dev, so I went for the $10. I think Spy Chameleon made it through Greenlight so maybe that will encourage them with this.

 

[Toma]

Well if it has the Toma stamp of approval I must try it.

I'd like a key if available.

Key sent.

 

[mclem]

Any opinions on Spy Chameleon? I ask because I *could* delay to the next sale and pick this up as the previous-sale bonus and get an unknown game in place of it.

 

[Toma]

Any opinions on Spy Chameleon? I ask because I *could* delay to the next sale and pick this up as the previous-sale bonus and get an unknown game in place of it.

I'll check it out briefly today and give my opinion. I bought it during the last sale.

Also, regarding ports and greenlight:

1. I´ve read the thread and we should try Greenlight. Actual problem is that I don´t have 90€ to pay fee and Ikkju (Jan Horacek) probably won´t pay it right now. He has his own reasons and I do not want to discuss them here. I will surely consider it and probably put it on Greenlight when I will have some money. It would need some promotion, which is probably the hardest thing ever.

2. We have considered Mac/Linux version but it is connected with some fees that we were unable to pay until now. We did this game without budget, without donations, without funding and all the money that we have paid for the development (GM license in version 8.0, 8.1, Studio Standard, Studio Pro; translation to English) were our own money that we had to put aside to be able to afford it. We will be able to reconsider exports after PWYW deal. Linux would be earlier since I do not need special computer. We don´t have Mac, but there is possibility that I would do it during July with my new colleague (who has Mac) since we will establish new studio (unfortunately without Jan who probably ended up with game development).

I hope you understand these things. We aren´t developing games full-time, which puts some limitations.
But it is definitely my dream to be game developer in full-time job. I want to do a bit different games: games that have soul or some message, games that leads you to reflection. That is why I would like to make Cubesis a bit bigger and deeper in kind of “sequel”. But before it we will create some smaller puzzle games, because my new colleague (programmer) is new to the development process...

So yeah, that is a developer that needs the support to actually do the "small" things people so easily take for granted. Glad to hear that Greenlight might be doable via the IGS deal, but yeah, if you like smaller games, support the devs!

 

[Knurek]

So yeah, that is a developer that needs the support to actually do the "small" things people so easily take for granted. Glad to hear that Greenlight might be doable via the IGS deal, but yeah, if you like smaller games, support the devs!

Toma, you could try arranging an exchange between the devs and our own JaseC, who has bought a Greenlight slot last year. Might work out better than waiting.

 

[tsab]

I bought the tier with the extra levels but I don't see an extra downloadable file. Is it bundled?

I haven't had the chance to run it though

 

[Impeccable]

Alright, I put a little bit of time into this last night (thanks, Toma!) and admittedly didn't get too far in but I was having a lot of fun with it and I'm only nearing the end of the tutorial.

I can already tell it's going to be way deeper than what I see now and can't see what else they add to the game over as I keep going along. At first it really didn't click but suddenly when I got the weather vane I started to see how this is going to be really difficult going forward. I actually can't wait to get some more free time to see how this game fleshes out and think if people are attracted to the art style or the synopsis (it is a God Sim Puzzle game) then people should really give this game a try.

 

[Toma]

I bought the tier with the extra levels but I don't see an extra downloadable file. Is it bundled?

I haven't had the chance to run it though

Yep, its included according to the dev, but my version isnt from IGS, so I cant verify.

Toma, you could try arranging an exchange between the devs and our own JaseC, who has bought a Greenlight slot last year. Might work out better than waiting.

I dont just want to barge into his mailbox asking for his Greenlight slot Whats the background story? He doesnt need it atm? And he could just have someone else use it for 90$, which means they wouldnt need to wait to appear on Greenlight?

 

[Knurek]

I dont just want to barge into his mailbox asking for his Greenlight slot Whats the background story? He doesnt need it atm? And he could just have someone else use it for 90$, which means they wouldnt need to wait to appear on Greenlight?

He bought it on the Brasilian store (where it costs $30 or something), only for +1 to Steam game count.
He's not a game developer, so I'm pretty sure it will stay unused. Best to PM him personally, he's a really swell bloke.

 

[JaseC]

I dont just want to barge into his mailbox asking for his Greenlight slot Whats the background story? He doesnt need it atm? And he could just have someone else use it for 90$, which means they wouldnt need to wait to appear on Greenlight?

SteamDB lists the submission fee as a game and so I'd intended to make it #2000... but, as it turned out, SteamDB was wrong. I'll never actually use it myself -- it was just supposed to be a creative way of getting the Gaming God badge.

 

[Toma]

SteamDB lists the submission fee as a game and so I'd intended to make it #2000... but, as it turned out, SteamDB was wrong. I'll never actually use it myself -- it was just supposed to be a creative way of getting the Gaming God badge.

Oh okay, I'll shoot you a PM then in case you'd be willing to sell it/for further inquiries

 

[Toma]

Alright, I put a little bit of time into this last night (thanks, Toma!) and admittedly didn't get too far in but I was having a lot of fun with it and I'm only nearing the end of the tutorial.

I can already tell it's going to be way deeper than what I see now and can't see what else they add to the game over as I keep going along. At first it really didn't click but suddenly when I got the weather vane I started to see how this is going to be really difficult going forward. I actually can't wait to get some more free time to see how this game fleshes out and think if people are attracted to the art style or the synopsis (it is a God Sim Puzzle game) then people should really give this game a try.

First impressions that arent by me! And they are positive! I agree, the weathervane level was the first level which shows how the game elements come together to create actual problems to solve. They were really, really smart in how they designed and structured each level to make it feel interesting. I'd love to read more of your impressions once you played a few campaign levels.

Any opinions on Spy Chameleon? I ask because I *could* delay to the next sale and pick this up as the previous-sale bonus and get an unknown game in place of it.

So my impressions on Spy Chameleon:

I have a hard time outright saying that its bad, because its not. Unfortunately, its also not really fun. You only change your body color to match floor tiles on which cameras cant see you, evade light cones and reach the end. They describe the game as action-puzzle game, but there is never much to think or figure out. The game is also called "Spy Chameleon" and evokes some stealth game comparisons when glancing over screenshots, but the stealth backdrop (view cones, cameras) is only really a backdrop to the arcade-style running through levels. That in itself would be fine, but there is just not enough to it, maybe I'd compare it to Monaco, but instead of Guards, static cameras and a level layout which holds no secrets and nothing interesting at all. No frantic chases, no surprises, no sneaking. Its also surprising how derivative all levels are. Same structure all the time: Evade cones, grab coins, reach goal. I should also mention that I am annoyed by games that have a input designed for xbox color palettes, which makes them incredibly unintuitive to play on PC. I played 20 levels and changing color palettes was more of a hindrance than actually adding depth to the game.

That being said, its objectively not quite as bad as I make it out to be. I am definitely spoiled by the hundreds of great Indies every year, and I am sure someone could find this fun somehow, but its definitely not a game I'll spend more time on and I wouldnt recommend it.

IGS had a pretty good record of putting up way more interesting games (even if they were less polished or not as complete as Spy Chameleon), so I'd also suggest betting on the next 10$ deal instead.

 

[Dice]

I play on PC with 360 controller when suitable, such as this time. Also, Monaco is a fucking bitch hard. Like everyone who said Dark Souls is hard needs to try Monaco to realize they never took off the training wheels.

Spy Chameleon is pretty basic tho. On their blog they said they designed it with speedruns in mind, but kind of dropped the hard goals in that way because if people wanted to go for best times they'd do so themselves.

 

[Toma]

I play on PC with 360 controller when suitable, such as this time. Also, Monaco is a fucking bitch hard. Like everyone who said Dark Souls is hard needs to try Monaco to realize they never took off the training wheels.

Spy Chameleon is pretty basic tho. On their blog they said they designed it with speedruns in mind, but kind of dropped the hard goals in that way because if people wanted to go for best times they'd do so themselves.

Yea, not the best decision. The gameplay of Spy Chameleon just feels bland.
Anyway, someone else who tried Cubesis?

 

[CaptainRizla]

Looks nice. Will look into this later.
Hard to go wrong with Toma's recommendations

 

[Toma]

Added an impressions part to the OP and Impeccables impressions to it, to have something in the OP not written by me

I'll put any other impression in there as well, unless I am being swamped with 50 today (which is not the likeliest of events).

 

[Ingueferroque]

Will post impressions this weekend!