Welcome to the distant future! A time when humanity is on the verge of extinction because we've managed to lose a war against some seriously bad extraterrestrial dudes. Yep, that's your setting in The Raven Project, a game that dares to ask: what if you could fly a spaceship, all while trying to not crash it into an alien vending machine? Strap in, because this sci-fi action-adventure is as challenging as finding a Wi-Fi signal at a music festival.
Now, let's dive into the gameplay, or lack thereof, depending on your skills. As you boot up The Raven Project, you'll find yourself in the cockpit of various gears (no, not the crank you use for your bike). You'll pilot spaceships and ground combat robots across various environments, while trying not to steer into an asteroid. Each mission introduces its own cinematic scenes, which are about as high-quality as your dad's home movies, but they really do set the stage for what's coming. Expect a barrage of enemies coming at you like your friends during a heated game of Fortnite. The challenge ramps up significantly as you progress, and don't expect to breeze through this one. You'll need the reflexes of a caffeinated squirrel and the strategy of Sun Tzu to come out on the other side happy.
Let's be real: The Raven Project probably won't be winning any beauty contests. The graphics are reminiscent of that awkward phase we all went through in middle school - trying really hard but not quite getting there. The spaceships look okay, most of the time, but prepare for the occasional jump scare when something pops into view with the charm of a 90's sitcom. Cinematics filmed with real actors? Kind of like a high school play that you can't look away from - it's hilariously cringy and charming at the same time. But hey, if you squint just right while holding your controller, you might just visualize a cooler version of the game.
In conclusion, The Raven Project is a challenge that will test even the sturdiest gamer's nerves and skills. While it may not win any awards for graphics or execution, it certainly delivers on the challenge front, requiring you to master every trick in the book to escape the alien menace. If you find yourself in need of a retro title that'll have you sweating bullets (and not from the motion blur), this is a decent pick. Just remember, if you don't scream at your screen at least once, you might need to check your pulse. So launch yourself into this chaotic adventure and may your skills soar as high as a distracted pigeon in the park.