Sep 2022
Ever wanted to take a break from the virtual mayhem of FPS battlefields and open world RPGs? Dive into the sweet, sweet world of *Apico*, the 2D beekeeping simulation game that's bee-yond relaxing. Developed by the indie duo TNgineers and buzzing onto the scene on May 20, 2022, right in time for World Bee Day, this game aims to teach you about the art of beekeeping while making you feel like the coolest beekeeper in the universe. Spoiler alert: no hexagons were harmed in the making of this game.
At its core, *Apico* is about exploring the sophisticated world of bees. Yes, you heard that right. You'll be playing the role of a bee enthusiast, not a one-man army against aliens. Your mission? Discover new bee species, engage in cross-breeding (no, not that kind of 'breeding'), and, most importantly, collect honey to craft all kinds of delightful items. Start with basic tasks like collecting pollen and gradually move on to creating your own bustling beehives. One of the highlights of *Apico* is its menu mechanics. Calling them mere menus would be an understatement. Think of them as mini-adventures within the game, each one with its own crafting minigame. Have you ever manually chopped logs using your mouse? Now's your chance! Want to scrape propolis off a hive frame? Get ready for some mouse-dragging action in the Uncapper menu! It feels almost like Tetris, but with a lot more honey involved. The game also carries a unique approach to gameplay. It's all fairly casual; there are no monumental fails or gaudy boss fights waiting to ruin your day. The developers intended it to be a healing escape in a world that's, well, let's just say, full of 'buzzkill' moments. Whether you're collecting bees or trying your hand at honey-making, everything is segmented into bite-sized challenges that yield sweet rewards. However, beyond just bee-keeping, there's an elaborate twist: the integration of genetics! Yes, you'll encounter Punnett squares-those glorious, complicated diagrams that help even the toughest bee squabbles land in the lap of science. Genetics is fundamental to discovering new bees, and honestly, it's a cozy way to learn it. Who knew that keeping bees could turn someone into a budding scientist and a budding beekeeper all at once? The social aspect of *Apico* fosters connections too! You can join your friends in multiplayer mode, swapping bees like Pokémon cards or just comparing whose bee collection is the most impressive. Or competitive, depending on how much bee-enthusiasm you've got in you.
Visually, *Apico* is a feast for the eyes with its delightful pixel art style. It offers a warm color palette that makes each bee look adorable and the world feel more vibrant. The pixelated charm strikes a nostalgic chord, reminiscent of early 2000s games while still feeling fresh in its execution. Every scene, from lush fields to buzzing hives, screams 'I'm cute, come take a look at my bee friends!' The adorable soundtrack composed by Mothense adds an extra layer of coziness to your bee adventures. It's whimsical and light-hearted, encouraging you to keep buzzing around while you manage your hives. The whole visual and auditory experience wraps around you like a warm blanket on a chilly day, making it hard to resist spending an extra hour (or two) collecting honey.
In a world buzzing with first-person shooters and sprawling open worlds, *Apico* manages to stand out as a charming and unique experience. With its deeply engaging gameplay mechanics, relaxing pace, and an educational twist, it's perfect for those days when you just want to take a break from chaos. Plus, let's not forget the whole saving-the-bees movement, which makes you feel like a superhero without the need for a cape or a spandex suit. Sure, it might be a little niche for some, but if you've ever wanted to become a bee-keeper without actually stepping into a bee hive, this is your go-to game. So grab your controller and get busy making honey-your buzzing friends are waiting!
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