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cover-VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action

Friday, January 26, 2024 2:22:27 AM

VA-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action Review (Trent Booty)

i review games on steam after i 100% complete them! check out my reviews to see all the games i have completed!

va-11 hall-a: cyberpunk bartender action is a visual novel developed by venezuelan studio sukeban games & published by ysbryd games. originally released for pc in june 2016, ports released for the playstation vita in november 2017 (april 2018 for EU) and the ps4 and nintendo switch in may 2019. you play as a bartender at a small bar in a dystopian downtown which is said to attract the "most fascinating" of people. gameplay consists of players making and serving drinks to bar attendees while listening to their stories and experiences.

at its core, the game revolves around a simple yet engaging gameplay mechanic: bartending. all you do during gameplay is mix and serve drinks, admittedly to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own personalities and backgrounds. the mixology aspect of gameplay is surprisingly deep, as players must pay attention to customers preferences and moods, creating a sense of connection between the player and the in-game characters. the choices made in drink preparation also impact the unfolding narrative, adding an element of consequence to the seemingly routine act of bartending.

the narrative is where the game truly shines. the game's storytelling is nonlinear, with the player's choices influencing the unfolding events and the relationships between characters. the protagonist becomes a vessel for players to experience the diverse and often thought-provoking tales of the cyberpunk city's inhabitants. the narrative weaves together elements of dystopia, corporate greed, artificial intelligence, and personal struggles, weaving a rich tapestry of storytelling that is both entertaining and emotionally resonant.

the characters are also a testament to the game's narrative prowess. each character is meticulously crafted with a backstory that adds layers of depth to their personalities. the character development is gradual and meaningful as well, making the player care about the fates of these patrons. i would say the game's ability to elicit genuine emotional responses from players is a testament to the writers' skill in creating relatable and well-rounded characters.

visually, the pixel art aesthetic stands out and beautifully captures the cyberpunk atmosphere. the attention to detail in character sprites, backgrounds, and animations is commendable, creating a world that feels alive and immersive. the art style not only pays homage to classic gaming but also contributes to the game's unique identity. when combined with an outstanding soundtrack that complements the mood of each scene, the game excels in creating an atmosphere that draws players into its cyberpunk universe.

speaking of the soundtrack, it is a masterpiece in its own right. the music perfectly complements the game's tone, ranging from upbeat and energetic tracks to slower tunes. the exceptional audio design is a crucial element in delivering an immersive experience that lingers in the player's memory.

in conclusion, va-11 hall-a: cyberpunk bartender action is not only a true triumph in visual novel game development, but a true gem in indie game development, period. sukeban games has succeeded in creating a title that not only pays homage to cyberpunk classics but also stands as a testament to the potential of storytelling within the medium. this is truly a must-play for those seeking a narrative-driven experience that challenges expectations and leaves a lasting impression.