Time Bandit – Part 1: Appendages of the Machine

by Joel Jordon

The Developer Says...

A who̴͊leso̶̬̙̍me real-time adventure with a dark secret. At your relaxing new job managing resources and collecting crystals, everything you do seems to take ... much, MUCH longer than it should. In retro 3D cutscenes, uncover a company's conspiracy--and sneak around at work to steal back your time.

Players Like...

❤ Meticulously Planning Real-Time Actions

The core gameplay loop revolves around a unique mechanic where every player action, such as moving boxes or planting trees, takes a significant amount of real-world time to complete - often 30 minutes or more. This forces players to carefully plan and strategize their moves, as they cannot simply rush through tasks. Players must manage their time and resources effectively, frequently checking in on the game to execute their planned actions and monitor the progress of ongoing activities.

❤ Multitasking During Lengthy Waits

As a result of the real-time nature of the gameplay, players are often required to juggle multiple tasks while waiting for their previous actions to complete. This may involve working on other puzzles, managing the game's resource economy, or even simply leaving the game running while attending to real-world responsibilities. The game encourages players to find productive ways to utilize these waiting periods, rather than idling.

❤ Adapting to Emergent Challenges

The time-gated actions and limited resources lead to emergent gameplay scenarios that require players to adapt and make tough choices. For example, a player might accidentally block a forklift, forcing them to wait a full day (in real-time) before they can correct the issue, or they may need to decide whether to steal resources from their employer at the risk of severe penalties. These situations create a sense of tension and encourage players to think critically about the consequences of their actions.

❤ Navigating Stealthy Maneuvers

In addition to the puzzle-solving and resource management elements, the game also introduces stealth mechanics. Players must carefully navigate their character through the workplace, avoiding security guards and cameras to steal valuable time crystals without being caught. This adds an extra layer of strategy and tension, as players must balance their desire for resources with the risk of getting apprehended and facing harsh penalties.

❤ Narrative Reinforcing Gameplay

The unique gameplay mechanics are closely tied to the game's narrative and themes, which revolve around a company exploiting its workers' time. The player's actions of carefully managing their time and resources, as well as their potential acts of rebellion, directly reflect and reinforce these themes. The game's dialogue and radio conversations further explore these ideas, creating a cohesive and thought-provoking experience.

❤ Player Praise for Innovative Design

Many players have praised the game's innovative and compelling gameplay, noting the way it blends various genres and mechanics to create a truly unique experience. Reviewers have highlighted the game's ability to get players thinking about their own relationship with time and work, as well as the satisfying challenge of navigating the complex puzzle-solving and resource management systems. Additionally, the game's retro-inspired aesthetic and the sense of discovery in uncovering the underlying conspiracy have resonated with players, further contributing to the overall appeal.

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