Recent reviews by squid lotion

If I had to summarise this fusion of Asteroids and Galaga in one word, it would be "replayable".

There's quite the number of basic configurations to choose from, and then a whole host of modules for you to equip that usually all interact with each other. The result is so many combinations that I don't think a single player can explore every possible one. Each basic configuration additionally has its own strengths and weaknesses, so few modules are must-picks on any given run, which adds even more replayability to an already diverse game. The configurations can be used in their obvious ways, but after you've gotten used to the upgrade system and embraced the nuance behind each upgrade, very rarely will your runs involve the "intended" use of your basics; you will make screen-clearing horrors and you will love it. The enemies you face show just as much diversity, with a strong cast of memorable bosses to back it all up.

The game has some quirks, though: the upgrade system works on a literal-meaning basis, where the words used in each upgrade text are intended to mean only exactly what is written with no room for interpretation. This works the vast majority of the time, making the few cases where it doesn't noticeable outliers, and it does mean a potential player needs time to get used to this way of thinking. Short-hand text that summarises each upgrade is available to ease you in, but if you really want to pilot crazier vessels, you'll need to look at the full text eventually. At the time of writing, a relatively barebones glossary exists to partially alleviate the problem. It's still absolutely possible to have a blast using just the short-hand summaries though.

The gameplay also works like Asteroids where the player ship can only thrust and fire in its forward direction, using momentum and rotations to move and aim over the course of a combat. This is an incredibly fun control scheme, but it takes some adapting to. My advice to a potential buyer is to be patient with the game. Deciphering and adding together upgrade effects takes some getting used to, as does the movement, but it's so worth it in the end.

And to top it all off, the Nova Drift experience comes with one of the most beautiful art styles I've ever seen. Who doesn't love a bit of eye candy in their video games?

Red Tether is difficult. Red Tether is unconventional. And Red Tether is destructive chaotic fun the whole way through. The game is frustrating at times, and has so much content that it'll take some tens of hours to experience most of it. Often you will die to something you didn't see coming and remembering that that can happen on future runs is a key to success. The tethering system has minor controlling quirks to get used to that can make a mishap occasionally feel beyond your control.

Despite this, Red Tether is a phenomenal game that absolutely deserves so much more recognition than it has. It is fun. You will die and it will be fun. You will learn how to efficiently destroy the enemy with all that material their fleets so generously provide you. "Space combat but your only weapon is an advanced rope" is such a cool concept, and it's executed so smoothly in this game; the enemies progressively getting more difficult and matching your craft's innovation is the cherry on top. Though occasionally a death may be beyond the player's control, the vast majority of the time the loss of a run comes down to making a mistake that can be learned from.

Runs are long and the game is difficult; it may be best not to pick it up if you're not willing to spend a lot of time learning and getting better. If you're willing to do that? Pick this game up as soon as possible! You will not regret it.

h