I MAED A GAM3 W1TH Z0MB1ES 1N IT!!!1

very hard to finish actually

I MAED A GAM3 W1TH Z0MB1ES 1N IT!!!1, developed by Ska Studios and OMNIViOLET and published by Ska Studios, is the kind of game that feels like a burst of creative energy captured in its rawest form. It first gained attention during the Xbox Live Indie Games era, a time when small teams experimented freely without the pressure of modern production standards, and that spirit is still immediately recognizable here. From the deliberately chaotic title to the unapologetically scrappy presentation, everything about it signals that this is not a game interested in refinement for its own sake. Instead, it is focused on delivering a short, intense, and memorable experience that embraces simplicity and absurdity in equal measure. At its core, the game is a twin-stick shooter built around survival and score-chasing. Players move and aim independently, navigating a confined arena while waves of enemies continuously flood the screen. The controls are responsive and intuitive, which is essential given how quickly the action escalates. There is no narrative to follow, no elaborate progression system to manage—just the immediate objective of staying alive and eliminating as many enemies as possible. This stripped-down design works in the game’s favor, allowing it to maintain a relentless pace that keeps players engaged from start to finish. What makes the experience stand out is how tightly it is structured around a single musical track. The entire game unfolds over the length of one continuous song, and the rhythm of that track directly influences the flow of gameplay. As the music builds, the intensity of enemy waves increases, creating a natural escalation that feels both deliberate and energetic. The song itself is intentionally rough and humorous, filled with self-aware lyrics that reinforce the game’s playful tone. Rather than serving as background audio, the music becomes the backbone of the experience, shaping its pacing and giving each session a sense of progression despite its short runtime. This design choice results in a game that is both brief and highly replayable. A full session lasts only as long as the track, making it easy to jump in for a quick playthrough without a significant time commitment. At the same time, the focus on high scores and survival encourages repeated attempts, as players try to improve their performance or simply enjoy the chaotic flow again. The inclusion of local multiplayer adds another layer of appeal, turning the experience into a shared, fast-paced competition that thrives on its simplicity. Visually, the game adopts a minimalist approach, using basic shapes, bright colors, and straightforward effects to convey its action. While it lacks the detail and polish of more modern titles, this simplicity ensures clarity during the most hectic moments. The screen can quickly fill with enemies and projectiles, and the clean visual design helps players keep track of what is happening without unnecessary distraction. It’s a functional aesthetic that prioritizes gameplay above all else, fitting perfectly with the game’s overall philosophy. Of course, this same focus on simplicity also defines the game’s limitations. There is little variety in terms of modes or mechanics, and once players have experienced the core loop a few times, there are few new elements to discover. The humor and presentation, while distinctive, are very specific in tone and may not resonate with everyone. Additionally, the lack of long-term progression or unlockable content means that the game relies entirely on its core gameplay to sustain interest, which may not be enough for players seeking a more expansive experience. Despite these constraints, I MAED A GAM3 W1TH Z0MB1ES 1N IT!!!1 succeeds because it understands exactly what it wants to be. It does not attempt to stretch its concept beyond its natural limits or add unnecessary complexity. Instead, it delivers a focused, energetic burst of gameplay that feels complete within its short duration. There is a sense of confidence in how it presents itself, embracing its rough edges and turning them into part of its identity. In the end, the game stands as a reminder of a time when indie development was defined by experimentation and personality rather than polish and scale. It may not offer the depth or longevity of larger titles, but it delivers a unique and memorable experience that is easy to appreciate on its own terms. For players willing to embrace its chaotic charm, it remains a standout example of how a simple idea, executed well, can leave a lasting impression. Rating: 9/10