Summary

• Release Year: 2010
• Genres: Arcade, Indie, Platform, Shooter
• Platforms: iOS, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation Vita
• Developers: Vlambeer
• Publishers: Vlambeer

Super Crate Box: A Retro-Inspired Arcade Delight

Introduction

In the realm of video games, few titles manage to capture the essence of classic arcade gameplay while simultaneously introducing innovative mechanics and a uniquely charming aesthetic. Super Crate Box, released in 2010 by Vlambeer, is one such game. This retro-inspired platformer has garnered critical acclaim for its tight controls, refreshing game mechanics, and addictive gameplay loop.

Gameplay

Super Crate Box is a side-scrolling platformer with a simple yet highly engaging premise: collect crates, shoot enemies, and survive as long as possible. The game takes place on a series of procedurally generated levels, each filled with an assortment of platforms, enemies, and the titular crate boxes.

The player controls a small, square-shaped character who can run, jump, and shoot. The goal of each level is to collect as many crates as possible while avoiding enemies and environmental hazards. Crates contain a variety of weapons and power-ups, including shotguns, rocket launchers, and jetpacks.

The game’s unique twist comes in the form of the crate boxes themselves. When a crate is collected, it spawns a new crate in a random location on the level. This creates a constant flow of new weapons and power-ups, forcing the player to adapt their strategy on the fly.

Controls

Super Crate Box’s controls are incredibly tight and responsive. The player character moves with precision, and the shooting mechanics are satisfyingly snappy. The game’s simple control scheme makes it easy to pick up and play, but the challenging gameplay ensures that there’s always something new to master.

Art Style

Super Crate Box’s art style is a love letter to the golden age of arcade gaming. The game’s pixel art graphics are vibrant and colorful, and the character designs are both charming and distinctive. The game’s backgrounds are equally impressive, with each level featuring its own unique visual theme.

Soundtrack

The soundtrack of Super Crate Box is a chiptune masterpiece. The music is fast-paced and energetic, perfectly complementing the game’s frantic gameplay. The soundtrack is also incredibly catchy, with several tracks that will undoubtedly get stuck in your head long after you’ve stopped playing.

Replayability

One of the key strengths of Super Crate Box is its high replayability value. The game’s procedurally generated levels ensure that each playthrough is unique, and the constant influx of new weapons and power-ups keeps the gameplay fresh and exciting. Additionally, the game features a variety of unlockable characters and game modes, providing even more incentive to keep coming back for more.

Critical Reception

Super Crate Box has received widespread critical acclaim since its release. The game has been praised for its tight controls, innovative gameplay mechanics, and charming art style. Many reviewers have hailed Super Crate Box as a modern classic, and it has been included on several lists of the best indie games of all time.

Conclusion

Super Crate Box is a must-play for fans of retro gaming, arcade action, and platforming excellence. Its tight controls, refreshing game mechanics, charming art style, and addictive gameplay loop make it a truly special experience. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the genre, Super Crate Box is sure to provide hours of endless enjoyment.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots