Qomp2 proves that life is only as mundane as you make it. If you so wish, you can break free from every rudimentary task and fulfil your potential. However, where there is reward, there is risk. Consequently, you will fail repeatedly before you succeed.
This old-school action title was developed by Graphite Lab and published by Atari. Moreover, it takes influence from the classic game Pong. Accordingly, it utilises many straightforward ideas as you navigate a deadly maze filled with 30 levels. On top of this, there are drip-fed obstacles that heighten the sense of danger. This unnerving edge keeps you alert and prevents the action from plateauing.
Qomp2 tells a story of adventure.
Fulfilling your destiny can be a tiresome quest. This is particularly true if you exist as a ball from the game Pong. Subsequently, if you want to break free from this mould, you must do something radical! By tackling 30 levels of increasing difficulty, you will prove the naysayers wrong. Additionally, you will fulfil your potential.
Though the story is ridiculous, it isn’t overbearing. Instead, Qomp2 focuses on its ball-breaking gameplay. Moreover, the blend of claustrophobic spaces and deadly obstacles tests your resolve. However, thankfully, there are plenty of checkpoints to keep things moving nicely. This was a good thing as I believe I would have quit long before I got to the final stages.
The short levels should have been a walk in the park. However, saw blades, spikes, lasers, and more stand in your way. Alongside this, there are boss encounters that push you to your limit. Consequently, this isn’t a game for the faint of heart, and you must be patient and calm if you wish to succeed.
Qomp2 takes a refined approach.
The old-school gameplay is complemented by some refined graphics. The simple stage layout focuses on a fixed-screen perspective. As you delve deeper, the levels fade from one screen to another. This basic idea adds a sense of mystery and tension. Furthermore, you never know what traps await you as you move closer to the end goal.
The audio utilises an 80s synth edge. This upbeat soundtrack should have been more daunting and sadistic. As it is, the high-energy tunes juxtapose the careful and often slow progress. Furthermore, there isn’t a vast array of sound effects to enjoy. Subsequently, you’ll concentrate on the maddening gameplay instead.
Simple controls.
Where Qomp2 excels is its simple controls. The ball can be made to dash or turn 45°. This is the limit of the input system. However, things are complicated further when obstacles and special tools mix things up. You must weave between spikes and blades. Alternatively, you’ll bounce off walls or use vacuums to adjust your trajectory. Either way, you must avoid death if you wish to progress.
30 levels doesn’t seem a lot. Yet, the action becomes so intense and convoluted that you enjoy plenty of replay value and longevity. Though this won’t be considered a cult classic, and you probably won’t return to it once you complete it, I enjoyed my first playthrough.
Qomp2 is a tough but enjoyable indie title.
If you enjoy being tested without a complex storyline, then Qomp2 could be for you. The basic puzzles and layers of difficulty keep you coming back for more. Additionally, the boss levels add some unique elements to prevent things from becoming stale. As such, I enjoyed it and I recommend buying it here! Can you leave the paddles behind? Break free, avoid obstacles, and complete every level.
