Just released on Steam comes The End from developer Mata who unleashes his first project using Unreal Engine 4. The game is quite simple in its design, but fairly unique whereby players control a fox in a cyberpunk themed sci-fi setting. It’s not everyday you can say this in video games. The idea is the fox is one of a dying breed thanks to robots taking over the Earth. Your task is to rescue a baby fox, or kit and take it outside of the city lest it becomes a pet for the robots. Along the way, there are mutant rats to contend with, some puzzles and the robots who will squish you underfoot if they spot you.
First things first. The controls are a bit of a hazard and will take some moments to get used to. There is controller support, but turning left or right is a 90 degree action with nothing in-between which makes turning quite awkward. Now the developer has chimed in and suggests ignoring the left and right directions and use the mouse (or camera) to turn but this is just a half measure. What is really needed is a more analogue control so that there is incremental speed when moving forwards and turning. You do get used to the controls but it’s a distraction to say the least having to wrestle with them throughout the game, especially during moments where precise movements are required when activating switches for example.
The gameplay itself is quite interesting. Pick up the kit and then put him down as you solve the puzzles which requires finding keys and triggering robots to activate switches which in turn opens up more areas. The few complaints here are that it’s rather easy to work things out and perhaps lacking in overall challenge. After a bit of experimentation you will find the rats to be no problem at all for the kit if you place him in certain points, leaving the fox free to explore without consequence. Some additional deadly rats and robots could have made a more challenging game, maybe even a hard mode for those wanting some replay. Leading the robots to switches is also a little long-winded where often they lose sight of you too easily making what should have been quite straight forward overly complex due to poor design. Hopefully these issues can be fixed in an update.
The End features two main areas as part of this episode which are a city based locale and a colourful forest area. In terms of the visuals, the sci-fi setting is of a high standard although it’s a shame the areas of play aren’t bigger or containing any secrets to uncover. The forest is also great to explore but lacking in anything meaningful aside from the singular puzzle which requires some switches to be activated. There could have been a lot more placed in this area to prolong the experience. As it stands, players can beat the game in around an hour, and if you replay can actually finish the game in under 15 minutes when you know what to do. That said, the price is under £6 which isn’t bad all things considered.
The End Episode 1 is a neat introduction to the world of the fox and its kit. There are some great visuals and the puzzles are enjoyable to work out. As a prelude to more things in the future, then this series certainly has some potential. A bit more challenge and extra content within the areas would make this game a much more rounded experience. As it stands, the low price point makes it an interesting prospect for those who aren’t looking for anything too taxing for an hour’s worth of entertainment. With a few fixes to the controls, the game will play much better but until then, be prepared to wrestle a little.
Score – 7/10
