[h3]Key Escape is a series of single screen platformer challenges, decorated by springs, spikes, and moving parts. Though it's simple and cheap, the physics and out of sync platforms will test more patience than skill. Recommended only for completionists.[/h3]
[i]Please note that this review is intended to be informational, but since steam forces a rating, choosing positive on the basis of updated content and being fully functional.[/i]
You're a key, and to escape, you need to collect locks. Wait, what? How does that even work? Don't think too hard about it, because the game doesn't do anything new with that premise. Time your jumps and navigate obstacles to reach the exit, like every platformer of the past.
The game has a neat and clean pixel aesthetic, and the controls are very simple: Arrows to move, Z to jump. All you need is timing and precision to advance. A few mechanics are added along the way, like springs, spikes, cycling blocks, and falling blocks. Each stage is a one-screen challenge, free of any scrolling issues or complicated pathing.
Previously I gave this game a negative rating. Having to play through all of its stages to reach the new content, I'm still conflicted, but feel I was too harsh on it initially. It's way better than many asset flips on steam, and you could do far worse for a higher price tag. However, the game hasn't addressed some of the frustrating elements of its design.
Your key-man has a jump that can't be modified, and falls like he's wearing cement shoes. The most frustrating part of the game is a lack of horizontal momentum. You'll need fairly precise timing to make most of your leaps, but since your character's jump is static, this means you'll crash into low-hanging ledges often. It's easy to fix this-- lower the fall speed slightly and make your vertical height dependent on how long you hold the input key by a few milliseconds.
The other apparent issue is vanishing blocks... these typically start in sync, but quickly spiral out of control as their partner squares pop in and out with higher and higher delays. If you don't rush the stages quickly enough, you may find yourself in an unwinnable situation. Thankfully, there aren't too many stages that rely heavily on them.
Considering there are many great deals for games as low as two bucks these days, you can do far better for the money, all things considered. If you can get it bundled or on sale and don't mind that it's likely a one-and-done experience under an hour, go for it.
[quote][u]Achievement Hunters[/u]: ~1hr to 100%. Get to stage 60. This is basically completing the game, as the final stage is a congratulatory one. There are no shortcuts, unfortunately.[/quote]
[i]Thank you NXGNZY for the donation.[/i]
