Ready, Steady, Ship is a game that will drive you bonkers! The testing action and constant ticking of the clock will get under your skin. Moreover, the bite-sized stages and progressively challenging gameplay ensure that you rarely get bored. However, this is a game that is best enjoyed cooperatively. Consequently, if you are a solo gamer, you may wish to invite a friend via Steam Remote Play.
This hectic production simulation title was developed by Martynas Cibulis and published by Untold Tales. If you love Moving Out, Tools Up, or Overcooked, then you will cherish this maddening game. Additionally, its testing mechanics will drive a wedge between you and your friends. Consequently, expect there to be arguments, laughter, and swearing. Yet, if this doesn’t put you off, you’ll adore every ball-breaking but amusing moment.
Ready, Steady, Ship allows you to put Amazon to shame!
Distribution centres and factories are not fun-filled locations. Health and safety rule the roost and a jovial atmosphere is frowned upon. Luckily, Ready, Steady, Ship throws this nonsense idea in the bin as you undertake an array of whacky tests across many tough levels. Moreover, there are vehicles to control, switches to flick, boxes to throw, and conveyor belts to repair, recycle, and organise.
The gameplay unfolds without an overarching plot. Furthermore, there isn’t any amusing dialogue or zany characters. This was disappointing as it is one of the memorable elements of Moving Out and Overcooked. However, this slight shortcoming is quickly forgotten as the cruel action unfolds. As the stages roll on, the gameplay requires you to spin many plates at once. Subsequently, having a second pair of hands makes all the difference. Yet, if you are tackling this alone, you can cope, it is just that little bit harder.
A simple idea.
Just like its counterparts, Ready, Steady, Ship is unbelievably simple. Each level comprises 3 subsections. During each layer, you must move and deliver coloured boxes to their cages. This sounds easy, but there is a twist. A conveyor belt stands between you and success. Furthermore, there are obstacles to overcome and an array of switches to power. Moreover, there is a timer to beat. Accordingly, you have to think fast and move even faster.
If this wasn’t bad enough, the heat ramps up as new and more challenging elements are introduced. Death quickly becomes a hazard and deadly liquids, drops, and moving machinery must all be considered. Alongside this, your equipment will break and platforms swing and sway for good measure. Finally, the developer has added a mountain of unique coloured packages and some fragile goods that need to be looked after. This hearty mix of danger, speed, and methodical thinking ensures that this is a moreish and challenging experience.
Ready, Steady, Ship looks great.
The isometric viewpoint was the perfect choice. However, you don’t get to see every aspect of the stage and this adds another uncomfortable layer. Thankfully, the camera moves and centres on each protagonist. Subsequently, it is simple to navigate each level. The varied character models and the interesting backdrops are both attractive and deadly in equal measure. What’s more, the colour palette is vibrant, and I noticed no flaws, glitches, or bugs.
The audio has a jovial edge that juxtaposes the unfolding madness. The music is upbeat and fun. However, its light-hearted edge lulls you into a false sense of security. Alongside this, there is a nice blend of sound effects and I enjoyed the realistic machinery noises and the sci-fi robotic sounds.
Excellent controls.
Ready, Steady, Ship has been designed for both console and PC. Accordingly, the developer has focused their attention on gamepad inputs. This may annoy lovers of a mouse and keyboard, but I adored its pick-up-and-play nature. Additionally, though it hasn’t been verified for Steam Deck, I found that it played perfectly.
There are countless levels to unlock, plenty of stars to earn, and a timer to beat. On top of this, there are characters to unlock, and you can play this alone or with one other via Steam Remote Play. This was a great choice as it enhanced replay value, longevity, and desirability.
Ready, Steady, Ship is a wonderful title.
This is one tough cookie to crack. Yet, it is this challenging nature that makes it so rewarding. Additionally, the varied gameplay and drip-fed mechanics keep you on your toes. Undoubtedly, this is a better experience with a friend, but I also enjoyed it solo. Consequently, this is a wonderful title and I recommend buying it here! Running a factory is never easy. As such, plan ahead, grab a friend and get to work.
