Sep 2022
Grounded—a delightful romp that asks the age-old question: what happens when you mash up Honey, I Shrunk the Kids with a survival game? The answer, my friends, is a mix of fun, terror, and the never-ending quest to find a decent snack in a backyard that feels downright apocalyptic. Playable solo or cooperatively with friends, Grounded brings you the dramatic tale of teenagers turned test subjects who are literally, and figuratively, battling their way through the challenges of backyard life—just with a slight twist of shrinking! Grab your trusty spear, fire up your Xbox, and let’s dive into this earthy adventure.
Grounded lets you step into the shoes of one of four lovable protagonists (let's call them 'The Tiny Avengers') who, after a botched science experiment, find themselves shrunk to the size of a... well, very tiny insect. Just picture it: you wake up in your own backyard and suddenly the garden isn't just a leisure spot—it’s an expansive wilderness filled with dangerous bugs, rather than just the neighbor’s annoying cat. The core gameplay mixes the thrills of crafting, exploring, and battling against various bugs that seem to have undergone some 'mega' transformation. You can choose between first-person and third-person perspectives, so whether you want to stare death in the arachnid’s eight beady eyes or take a more scenic third-person view, you’ve got the options. Food and water are essential; neglect to eat and drink like you’re trying to stay on a diet, and your health bar will take a nosedive faster than a game show contestant falling into a pit of mud. You’ll also need to build a base to defend against night-time attacks from those pesky spiders and other creatures that may be lurking about, ready to turn you into a crunchy snack. Oh, and shout out to the optional arachnophobia mode that makes those eight-legged fiends a tad less terrifying for those with a slight case of fear of the creepy-crawlies. Whether you’re building a cozy spider-proof shack or working on combat strategies with friends, each session promises a mix of fun and pandemonium.
Graphically, Grounded boasts a vibrant, cartoonish style that is visually pleasing and somehow feels welcoming despite the looming danger. The lush details in the environment create an immersive experience where the grass feels like a forest and a pet rock might as well be a boulder. The art direction leans into the charm of your childhood backyard adventures, making even the occasional death by giant ant feel like a whimsical misadventure. Everything is executed beautifully on the Unreal Engine 4, translating the whimsical representation of the backyard into an intricate 3D haven where danger lurks behind every dewy leaf.
In summary, Grounded is an ambitious and charming survival experience that brings the backyard to life in a way that’s both entertaining and just a tad terrifying. The sheer number of startle moments, intense battles with garden inhabitants, and the charm of the four protagonists keep the energy high. While the game focuses heavily on survival mechanics and crafting, it never loses sight of the fun factor. With a group of friends and a working mic, the hilarity and chaos become ever more prevalent, transforming even the mundane act of gathering dew drops into a hilarious frenzy. Overall, I’d say Grounded is worth your time, if only for the chance to feel like a tiny warrior in an expansive world filled with dangers and delights. Whether you're a seasoned gamer or a casual player looking for a light-hearted adventure, this title has something for everyone. And who knows? You might discover your thirst for survival... and maybe a slight fear of spiders! So gear up, ground yourself—pun intended—and embark on this unforgettable journey. 8.5/10 for this whimsical backyard adventure—it’s a blast, any way you slice it!
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